Session Ends in Green Territory

Friday’s session ended with gains. Technology brands such as Google led the Nasdaq’s advance while energy shares like Exxon Mobil took a breather. Crude oil futures shed 35 cents to settle at $96.04 a barrel. In earnings action, Magna International said its net income rose 8%, noting increased production sales throughout all regions. The company earned $369 million, or $1.57 a share, up from $343 million, or $1.46 a share, a year ago. Meanwhile in ratings moves, Macquarie upgraded Becton Dickinson to Outperform from Neutral, RBC Capital boosted its price target for Dover to $83 from $78, and Credit Suisse lifted Priceline.com’s price target to $924 from $886. Looking ahead, earnings reports are due next week from retailers such as Wal-Mart, Nordstrom, and Macy’s.

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