Home Depot ( NYS: HD ), up 0.7% For Home Depot, news of an expanding U.S. GDP likely gave further fuel to the notion that home improvement might be a booming business. Yet the tea leaves are far from clear on that point, given that home prices have continued to fall, according to the most recent data. Even in challenging times, a strategic alliance can help boost results. Home Depot has had a partnership with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia for about two years now, and the home improvement retailer said it plans to renew that partnership with an expanded scope that will include craft furniture and holiday offerings as well as paint, cabinetry, and carpet. Procter & Gamble ( NYS: PG ), up 0.3% The news of the day for big-brand companies came from social media, where Facebook is seeking to attract new ways to appeal to potential advertisers. With the potential to target ads to specific users based on their preferences, effectiveness would rise.