Market Turns Higher on Strong Data, Earnings Results

[Stocks-to-Watch]

Stock futures rose early on Thursday as durable goods orders rose a better-than-expected 3% in December, and weekly jobless claims came in at 377,000. The news helped continue momentum that began with the Fed’s pledge on Wednesday to keep interest rates low through 2014.

“Unsettled risks remain, but better economic news has assuaged investor fears, at least temporarily,” noted Jim Baird, chief investment strategist for Plante Moran Financial Advisors.

Dow futures rose 63 points to 12,751; S&P 500 futures rose 6.1 points to 1,326.3.

Caterpillar (CAT) beat earnings expectations and raised its guidance, sending shares 2.4% higher. 3M (MMM) rose 1% after beating earnings expectations. Fertilizer company Potash (POT) fell 1.9% after missing earnings expectations.



Original Article Source by Barrons.com