the dow is a CNBC sheep number. When i was forced to watch it, every time they asked anybody on the floor they all said the same thing, "we watch the 500 over the dow". Yet CNBC continued to pump dow banners.
CollegeTrader, it's nice to see some intelligent comments on your question. I want you to know that I believe the S&P 500 is more representative for a host of reasons. And that's my opinion. Good luck with your pursuits.