The markets finished strong this week as the unemployment rate came in better than expected. If not for the French election this weekend the markets could have seen more gains from the positive report. The Dow 30 was higher by 55, the S&P 500 added 9, and the Nasdaq 100 gained 25 on the news. Though investors are pretty confident in the winner of the French election, next week will start with a focus on the results. Aside from weekly economic reports the real action will likely come Friday as investors get a look at retail sales numbers along with consumer sentiment.
Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) shares shot up 11.59% today hitting new highs on the year. The popular herbal supplement company reported earnings that were much better than what Wall Street had predicted. The company beat on both the top and bottom lines and also raised its full year earnings guidance above current analyst consensus. Activist investor Bill Ackman has a very public short position on the stock, claiming it is a pyramid scheme. Today looks like yet more losses for his struggling fund.
Delta (NYSE: DAL) was in the news today after a couple said they were kicked off an overbooked flight with their two toddlers. The family says the airline threatened to throw the parents in jail and put the kids in foster care. Delta issued a statement regarding the issue saying it was, "Sorry for the unfortunate experience." Investors didn't seem concerned about the issue as shares finished the week near highs.
Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) shares remained near all time highs as investors continue to have no reason to doubt the company. Reports showed that CEO Jeff Bezos just sold 1 million shares of Amazon stock worth $941 million which is the most Bezos has ever made on any single sale. The stock is up 25% for 2017 and remains in a very strong uptrend.