Today in the markets
U.S. stocks were higher Friday, as investors reacted to signs of economic strength, including a gain in U.S. Conference leading indicators.
Canadian stocks also rose as rallying banking and energy stocks offset the impact of gold miners hit by bullion’s continued decline.
The S&P/TSX Composite was up 105.45 points to 12,613.05, while the TSX Venture Exchange eased down 1.82 points to close at 934.68.
Active stocks included J.C. Penney Co. Inc. (NYSE: JCP, Stock Forum). The shares slid 4.1% to $18.01after the ailing retailer reported another massive loss.
Shares of Tableau Software (NYSE: DATA, Stock Forum) surged 11,702.33% to $50.75 in their debut on the New York Stock Exchange. The company raised more than $254 million U.S. through an initial public offering that priced above its estimated range.
In Canada,Orbite Aluminae Inc. (TSX: T.ORT, Stock Forum) saw its shares rocket up nearly 18%, or nine cents to 73 cents a share after the Montreal-based company posted a first-quarter net loss of $500,000, or 0.3 per share, shrinking its loss of $3.8 million or two cents per share in the same period a year ago.
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. (TSX: T.CNQ, Stock Forum) saw its shares climb more than 2% to $30.39.
Bankers Petroleum Ltd. (TSX: T.BNK, Stock Forum) ballooned in price 6% to $3.00.
For news about small stocks that made big moves in Friday’s trading, please read the
Stockhouse Canadian Small and Micro-cap Stock Report