U.S. Stocks Open Lower as Investors React to the Attacks in Paris

U.S. stocks opened lower Monday as raids are underway in Europe to find the people responsible for the terrorist attacks in Paris Friday night. Marriott (MAR) International has agreed to buy Starwood Hotels and resorts (HOT) in a $12.2 billion deal that will make it the largest hotel chain in the world. The Boards of Directors of both companies have unanimously approved the merger agreement. The combined companies will operate or franchise more than 5,500 hotels with 1.1 million rooms worldwide. The European stock markets are defiant despite the terror attacks in France's capitol Friday night and the prospect of more attacks to come. Even the CAC-40 in Paris recovered after a lower start. Germany's and London's stock market also traded slightly higher.