Solid job creation in November kept the unemployment rate steady at 4.7%. Meanwhile, oil prices edged above the $90 a barrel mark. The Dow slipped 7 points to 13,611 while Nasdaq dropped 10 points to 2698.

On the upside

Canada-based IMAX (Nasdaq: IMAX) signed a projection-screen deal with AMC Entertainment to install its trademark digital screens in 100 theaters.

Analysts raised their opinion of Shaw Group (NYSE: SGR) citing strong growth through next year for the engineering and construction company.

Synopsys (Nasdaq: SNPS) reported earnings that beat estimates as the developer of software design tools for semiconductors posted higher revenues.

On the downside

Gemstar-TV Guide International (Nasdaq: GMST) received a $2.8 billion cash and stock offer from Macrovision (Nasdaq: MVSN). Both stocks opened lower on the news.

Shares of Smith & Wesson Holding (Nasdaq: SWHC) tumbled after the gun maker lowered its 2008 profit outlook again.

Student loan services provider First Marblehead (NYSE: FMD) slashed its dividend as shares sank to a new 52-week low.

In the broad market, advancing issues outpaced decliners by a narrow margin on both the NYSE and Nasdaq. The Russell 2000 which tracks small cap stocks gave up 2 points to 784.