The markets advanced during the midday with the Dow rising 38 points to 19,136. Nasdaq climbed 32 points 5,401.
Cyber Monday sales soared 12.1% over last year to become the best online shopping day ever in the nation's history. Bargain hunters spent $3.45 billion in one day on electronics and toys. Popular items included the Sony PlayStation 4, Microsoft Xbox, Lego building sets, and Mattel's Barbie dolls. Shopping on mobile devices surged 34% over last year to $1.07 billion.
AT&T will introduce a new DirectTV Now streaming service beginning tomorrow. An introductory package that offers over 100 channels will be available for $35 per month. The regular price for the 100 channel package will be $60 per month. Subscription packages begin at $35 per month for over 60 channels that include CNN, ESPN, Disney Channel, and Fox Business News.
Dozens of demonstrators for the Fight for $15 movement have been arrested around the nation. Protestors organized in cities across the country to demand that the federal minimum wage be raised from $7.50 per hour to $15 per hour. Workers in fast food, home health care, childcare as well as Uber drivers joined the mostly peaceful demonstrations.
In the broad market, advancing issues outpaced decliners by a margin of more than 10 to 9 on the NYSE and by 9 to 7 on Nasdaq. The broader S&P 500 gained 7 points to 2,209. Bitcoin added $1 to $732.
