The Dow Jones industrial average and the S&P 500 index gained ground on Friday after a rebound in consumer confidence, but the tone remained cautious as investors assessed the sustainability of recent results from major companies that beat expectations, including banks.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> added 23.34 points, or 0.29 percent, to 8,148.77. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> edged up 1.67 points, or 0.19 percent, at 866.97. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> was off 5.65 points, or 0.34 percent, to 1,664.79.

(Reporting by Leah Schnurr; Editing by Theodore d'Afflisio)