Stocks retreated after a fleeting uptick as investors digested a slew of earnings and some dismal outlooks and signs of a thawing in the credit markets.

Stocks turned lower again after paring most of their losses amid more signs of thawing in the seized up credit markets.

U.S. stock market index futures pointed to a lower open for Wall Street Tuesday as worries over the health of the economy offset enthusiasm after news of a possible second stimulus package.