Author: Joseph Woelfel / Source: TheStreet
Here Are 3 Hot Things to Know About Stocks Right Now
- The Dow Jones Industrial Average was rising Wednesday amid optimism that U.S. and Chinese negotiators could reach a trade deal before another round of tariffs kicks in.
- Activision Blizzard Inc. (ATVI – Get Report) rose 6. 6% after the video game maker unveiled a stock buyback and cost-cutting program that offset a weaker-than-expected profit outlook.
- Johnson & Johnson (JNJ – Get Report) reached a deal to acquire privately held surgical robotic technologies manufacturer Auris Health for about $3.4 billion in cash.
Wall Street Overview
Stocks were higher on Wednesday, Feb. 13, amid optimism that the-self imposed deadline for a trade deal between the U.S. and China could be extended if the two sides make progress in reaching an agreement.
Donald Trump raised the prospect of an extension to the March 2 deadline, when tariffs on $200 billion worth of China-made goods could increase to 25% from 10%.
“If we’re close to a deal where we think we can make a real deal and it’s going to get done, I could see myself letting that slide for a little while,” Trump said. “But generally speaking, I’m not inclined to do that … we’re doing very well over in China.”
The modestly softer tone, which came ahead of key talks between Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and China Vice Premier Liu He on Thursday and Friday in Beijing, suggested the two sides see some progress on key issues such as alleged intellectual property theft forced technology transfers that have been held as sticking points to a comprehensive agreement by officials in Washington.
Separately, Trump intends to sign the border security deal to avoid another partial government shutdown, CNN reported, citing two sources who have spoken directly with him. The deadline for…
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