NYSE Indexes Start New Year With Bang.(B)

Byline: CRAIG SHAW

A jump in factory activity helped NYSE stocks start the new year strong Thursday. The Dow surged 3.2% on the first trading day of 2003, the S&P 500 3.3%. Volume vaulted above Tuesday's levels, but remained below its 50-day average.

Hudson United Bancorp broke out of an eight-month base on a twofold spike in volume, rising 1.10 to 32.20. The New Jersey-based bank gets a 98, or A+, Overall Rating from IBD Stock Checkup at investors.com. Profit growth the last three quarters ranged from 4% to 20%. But revenue declined four of the last five quarters.

LandAmerica Financial Group tried for a 52-week high, but fell short, climbing 2.05 to 37.50 on twice normal trade. The Richmond, Va.-based title insurer has met resistance near 38 the last six weeks. Profit grew by triple digits four of the last six quarters, but is seen dipping 45% in 2003.

Michigan builder Pulte Homes jumped 2.90, or 6.1%, to 50.77, clearing its 200-day line on brisk trade. It's climbing the right side of a seven-month base and stands 15% off its high. Return on equity of 17.2% helps boost its SMR Rating to A. But its ...