The S&P/TSX Composite Index rose 3.4%, dropped 1.4%, and then rose 2.1% in three successive months. The Index ended the three-month period at 9539.

a. What was the Index at the beginning of the three-month period? (Do not round the intermediate calculations. Round your answer to 1 decimal place.)

b. How many points did the Index drop in the second month? (Do not round the intermediate calculations. Round your answer to 1decimal place.)