Midday Report: Southwest Falls on February Weakness; Jobs Back Rate Hike

Stocks remain slightly higher after a solid jobs report backs confidence in the U.S. economic recovery.

Author:: Keris Alison Lahiff
Publish date:: Mar 10, 2017 11:54 AM EST

Stocks remained slightly higher after a solid jobs report backed confidence in the U.S. economic recovery. Those job gains only reinforced chances of a rate hike when the Fed convenes next week. Southwest Airlines (LUV) - Get Report moved lower after guiding for a 2% to 3% decline in operating unit revenue over its first quarter, blaming "unexpected softness" in the back half of last month. The airline previously targeted revenue flat to down 1%. Vail Resorts (MTN) - Get Report surged after blowing past second-quarter earnings estimates thanks to an increase in ticket prices. Sales rose 21% over the quarter, beating consensus. Ulta Beauty (ULTA) - Get Report also exceeded quarterly estimates, though issued softer current-quarter guidance. The beauty products retailer has consistently surpassed earnings expectations.