Markets Look to Add Gains (MSFT, GES)

Markets look like they will manage to finish the week with gains, led by strong materials and energy sectors. Encouraging economic reports helped investors buy-in, too, as the job outlook appears to be optimistic. Consumer spending has fallen, though, largely due to rising inflation. In corporate news, Microsoft (MSFT) CEO Steve Ballmer is being backed by the Board of Executives days after David Einhorn called for his resignation. He also announced Windows 8 is “on it’s way.” 

Note: This is not a final daily recap. Events and prices quoted are as of 12:00 PM

Word on the Street

• Materials and energy send stocks higher to close out the week.
• Greek parties can’t agree to new austerity measures aimed at keeping bail out funds flowing.
• Continued rises in inflation cause consumer spending to take a hit.
• Microsoft (MSFT) CEO Steve Ballmer says Windows 8 is on its way.
• Consumer sentiment rises on optimistic jobs outlook.
• Oil futures set to finish week with gains as JP Morgan (JPM) predicts OPEC quota increase.
• Guess? Jeans (GES) sees increased sales in Europe and Asia, shares rise.

Interesting Tidbits

• Try taking public criticism and turn it around into improvements within the company.
• Learn how to successfully improve the multicultural nature of your company.

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