Summary Box: Interest rates mostly slip following mixed economic reports, corporate buyouts

Summary Box: Rates barely budge on mixed signals

WHAT HELD THE MARKET IN CHECK: Welcome signs of corporate buyouts boosted demand for stocks, but mixed economic news fueled some demand for Treasurys.

WHAT CONFLICTING SIGNALS AROSE: A trade group said growth in manufacturing slowed in February, but the government reported that personal spending rose in January.

WHY DID THE 30-YEAR BOND SLIP: Demand for safe havens fell somewhat on reports that European countries were working out a rescue for Greece, which is struggling with mounting debt. A bailout would lessen the chances of Greece defaulting.