The DJIA is red-hot on a strong ADP employment report, while the COMP's series of higher highs continues
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) has jumped triple digits today and the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) is fresh off another all-time high, with stocks fueled by an upbeat ADP employment report. But not all is well on the economic front, as the ISM services purchasing managers index (PMI) fell more than expected. Meanwhile, crude futures have retreated to breakeven at $51.03 per barrel, due to a surprise build in U.S. crude inventories.
Continue reading for more on today's market -- and don't miss:
- A Nasdaq signal of epic proportions -- and what it means for stocks.
- The catalyst propelling Panera stock to record highs.
- Plus, option bulls bombard Southwestern Energy; Sarepta stock surges; and Amazon's alternative energy play.
Among the stocks with unusual call volume today is Southwestern Energy Company (NYSE:SWN), as 23,000 contracts have traded so far, accounting for eight times the expected intraday rate. Most active by a mile is the April 9 call, where likely buy-to-open activity appears to be driving the bulk of the 17,388 contracts exchanged here. At last check, SWN stock was off 0.1% at $8.58.
One of the top percentage gainers on the Nasdaq so far is Sarepta Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:SRPT), up 6.5% at $30.67. The stock is flying on an upgrade from SunTrust Robinson, but remains a long-term laggard.
Also lighting the charts on fire is Plug Power Inc (NASDAQ:PLUG), after Amazon acquired the right to purchase almost one-quarter of the company. PLUG stock was last seen 60% higher at $2.08, making the low-priced name the top percentage gainer on the Nasdaq.