The good times are set to last, and investors are now focusing on the next wave of big payouts.
Starwood Hotels initiated with an 'outperform,' and BB&T upgraded to 'buy.'
Alcoa and Bed Bath & Beyond will report earnings. BB&T shareholders will pay close attention to JP Morgan earnings. Zynga opens real-money sites in the U.K. Congress refreshes the debate on gun controls.
The financial sector has performed very well, and some firms are increasing share buybacks while others are opting for a more shareholder-friendly solution.
Stocks are lower and if the weakness holds into the close, it will mark the first Friday this year in which the major averages suffered daily losses.
Best Buy is upgraded to 'outperform,' and Akamai is initiated with a 'buy.'
The Fed surprised some observers by rejecting BB&T's capital plan, likely because of an excessive dividend payout.
We are about to see real lending in this country as well as several acquisitions in the sector.
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