Meanwhile, corporate earnings from media companies were mostly negative.
Discovery Communications disappointed investors after the media company lowered its full-year outlook but said it sees stronger growth in advertising for the fourth quarter.
DirecTV reported third quarter revenue that grew by 8 percent compared to a year ago but subscription additions were less than expected, sending shares lower.
Dish Network reported an unexpected third-quarter loss, but shares were still higher.
Cablevision slumped after the cable and news company said the aftermath from Superstorm Sandy will cost more than the $16-million the firm suffered from last year's Hurricane Irene.
(Read More: See CNBC's Market Insider Blog)
—By CNBC's Lori Spechler.
Questions? Comments? Email us at marketinsider@cnbc.com