Investors wait on Fed. What else is new?

NEW YORK (CNNMoney)

The Dow, S&P 500 and the Nasdaq were all flat in early morning trading.

The market is waiting for the release of the minutes from the Federal Reserve's most recent policy meeting later in the day.

Investors are looking for further evidence that the central bank will continue its stimulus program into 2014, extending the huge bond-buying spree that has supported the U.S. economic recovery and helped boost stock markets to record levels.

On Tuesday evening, chairman Ben Bernanke made a speech that indicated Fed support was likely to continue into 2014. Although that decision won't be Bernanke's to make. His terms end early next year. President Obama has nominated Fed vice chair Janet Yellen to replace Bernanke. She just needs to be confirmed by the Senate, which seems almost certain.

Related: Bernanke says the recent jobs reports were "disappointing"

On the economic front, retail sales for the month of October rose more than expected. Consumer prices were relatively flat for the month, a sign that inflation remains tame.

At 10 a.m., the National Association of Realtors will release its monthly report on existing home sales.

Related: Fear & Greed Index still in Greed mode

What's moving: Struggling retailer J.C. Penney (JCP, Fortune 500) reported a decline in quarterly revenue and same-store sales and a steepening loss compared to the year-ago quarter. But shares surged due to brightening hope for the retailer, which said that same-store sales pulled out of the gutter in October.

Deere & Co. (DJDEFDD) reported that quarterly net income easily topped forecasts, but worldwide sales in heavy equipment took a dive during the period. Shares rose in early trading.

Lowe's (LOW, Fortune 500) reported a double-digit gain in quarterly profit, which CEO Robert Niblock attributed to the strengthening market for home improvement. But shares dipped as results missed forecasts. Rival Home Depot (HD, Fortune 500) reported stronger results and guidance on Tuesday.

Yahoo (YHOO, Fortune 500) shares continue to rise in trading following the news on Tuesday that the company is boosting its stock buyback by another $5 billion.

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters (GMCR) is scheduled to report quarterly results in the afternoon.