Among the few stocks in negative territory, Research In Motion tanked almost 20 percent after the embattled BlackBerry maker posted a wider-than-expected quarterly loss and added it would cut 5,000 jobs. Analysts were clearly disappointed—at least 18 brokerages lowered their price target on the Canadian company.

Nike also tumbled after the sports-apparel retailer missed earnings expectations and as margins took a hit from costs and a restructuring charge. At least eight brokerages slashed their price target on the company.

And Ford Motors dropped after the automaker said its international losses will likely triple in the second quarter, citing weakness in European sales. At least three brokerages cut their price target on the firm.

JPMorgan ended slightly lower amid reports that regulators have stepped up scrutiny of the financial giant's internal controls, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Facebook slipped following a report that Twitter is seeing more success on its mobile advertising, according to the Wall Street Journal, and after Macquarie initiated coverage of the social-media giant with a "neutral" rating and a $35 price target.

IT management cloud service provider ServiceNow skyrocketed more than 30 percent in its market debut.