Manic Monday: Our Topline News Summary for the Week Ahead
What a “Manic Monday” it is in the news today! Bouncing off this weekend’s buzz on the passage of the House Bill on healthcare, this week we are highlighting news on healthcare, deal flow in the retail sector, and recent market highs. The M&A sector is heating up with positive trends in the retail sector, and we look forward to learning more as the ongoing coverage on the healthcare bill develops.
Enjoy this week’s media preview from your favorite public relations professionals!
Healthcare: With the passage of the House bill, the U.S. is now closer than ever to near-universal health insurance. President Obama remains confident that his healthcare overhaul will pass, though many argue it will face an uncertain battle in the Senate. Today’s WSJ offers more details.
Markets: The Dow Jones Industrial Average was recently up 107.54 points, or 1.1%, to 10130.96, a new high for the year. This high was led by the materials and energy sectors as commodities prices rose and the dollar fell, reflecting a move back into some of the riskier areas of the market that have lagged in recent weeks. Read more: Dow Industrials Reach ’09 High
Retail: Deal flow is on a high in the retail space this week. Electronic Arts Inc. agreed to acquire social-network games maker Playfish for at least $275 million as the videogame publisher looks to strengthen its position in the growing Internet and wireless gaming segment. Read more: EA to Acquire Playfish for $275 Million.
Also, Dollar General Dresses Up for Its Debut as this year’s most widely anticipated new U.S. stock is scheduled to trade on the NYSE Friday under the symbol DG.
Further, Cadbury announced that they reject Kraft Foods, Inc.’s hostile bid of $16.28 billion. Kraft, facing lackluster sales and upward pressure on its raw-material costs, wants to absorb Cadbury to boost its exposure to developing markets and growth prospects – but Cadbury already rejected their initial proposal for a merger in September. Read more: Cadbury Rejects Kraft’s Now Hostile Bid
What news are you looking forward to during what promises to be an exciting week in the headlines plays out?
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