51.  ECON-REPORT (Undated) _ Consumer confidence in the U.S. drops to its lowest level since June 1996, a survey by the Conference Board shows.

52.  ECON-REPORT (Washignton) _ Housing starts fell unexpectedly in October, declining 5.1 percent to the lowest level in a year.

53.  Economic data that were surprisingly softer than expected lifted bond prices Tuesday, sending yields in the Treasuries market plunging to their lowest levels in a month.

54.  Earlier today, the index fell as low as 2198.59 points its lowest level since October.

55.  Earlier, benchmark 30-year U.S. Treasury bond yields plunged as much as 8 basis points to 6.58 percent, the lowest level since March 26.

56.  Earlier, it fell to 99.40 yen, its lowest level since Oct. 5, when it reached 99.28 yen.

57.  Earlier, it reached its lowest level this year, falling as much as 314.39 points to 14,488.21.

58.  Earlier, it rose 69 points, following bonds, after the government reported the yearly inflation rate is at its lowest level in 11 years.

59.  Earlier, shares fell to 3 3/4, their lowest level since the company went public at 12 1/2 in February.

60.  Earlier, sterling slipped to $1.4893, its lowest level since May 11, 1994.