The S&P Information Tech sector trading +1.22% The tech sector is trading higher today, ahead of gains in the broader market. Semiconductors are showing relative strength as well with the SOX trading 1.5% higher. Within the chip index, CREE (+12.7%) is a notable standout following raised guidance. Among other major indices, the SPY is trading 0.8% higher today, while the QQQ is up 1.1% and the NASDAQ is trading 1.0% higher on the session. Among tech bellwethers, QCOM (+2.0%) is showing notable strength.

In tech earnings last night, EPIQ (+2.8%) reported inline Q4 EPS, while topping rev ests. This morning, CREE (+12.7%) raised guidance. In news, QCOM (+2.0%) increased its quarterly dividend by 40% to $0.35/share from $0.25/share and announced a new $5 bln stock repurchase program. Among rumors, CPWR (+0.7%) is receiving buyout interest from private equity, according to reports. Also, BMC (+4.1%) is receiving renewed M&A speculation interest. Among notable analyst upgrades this morning in the tech space, Cantor upgraded YHOO (+0.6%) to Buy and Needham upgraded SSYS (+5.2%) to Buy. There were no notable downgrades in the tech space. PAY (+2.2%) is the notable names in tech scheduled to report quarterly results today after the close.

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