US markets end higher on hopes of resolution to Cyprus crisis

23 Mar 2013 Evaluate

US markets ended higher on Friday on optimism about the situation in Cyprus. Though, the mood remained subdued in early trade but in late trade worries over Cyprus diminished and a batch of upbeat earnings reports were released that took the markets higher for the day, but despite the gains on the day, the major averages still closed modestly lower for the week. Buying interest remained somewhat subdued, with a lack of major US economic data. Cypriot lawmakers reportedly were making progress on coming up with a new bailout plan and the ruling party stated that Cyprus was close to a deal to raise billions of euros and unlock a bailout from the European Union that could avert a financial meltdown and its exit from the euro.

Among earnings, Nike soared to lead the S&P 500 gainers after the sports apparel retailer reported stronger than expected third quarter earnings growth. While revenues trailed expectations, the company also reported a 6 percent increase in futures orders. Tiffany posted a better-than-expected profit and rallied after saying that it sees worldwide sales gaining 6 to 8 percent this fiscal year.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 90.54 points or 0.63 percent to 14,512.03, the Nasdaq rose 22.40 points or 0.70 percent to 3,245.00 and the S&P 500 added 11.09 points or 0.72 percent to 1,556.89.

The Indian ADRs made a mixed closing on Friday, ICICI Bank was up by 0.03%, Sterlite Inds was up by 0.12% and Infy was up by 0.16%.

On the other hand HDFC Bank was down by 0.42%, Tata Motors was down by 0.61% and Dr Reddy’s Lab was down by 0.39%.

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