ADP report
Companies expanded payrolls in October by the most in eight months, according to a private report. The 158,000 increase followed a revised 114,000 gain in September, data from the ADP Research Institute showed ahead of today’s Labor Dept. numbers.
AIG profit
American International Group, the insurer that counts the US as its largest shareholder, posted third-quarter net income of $1.86 billion, or $1.13 a share, as gains in the value of its AIA Group stake fueled investment results.
Optimistic
Dollar Thrifty CEO Scott Thompson said he would be “surprised” if the Federal Trade Commission “does not approve” its $2.6 billion acquisition by Hertz.
Steamin’
Starbucks said fourth-quarter profit rose 0.1 percent as new products helped boost US sales. Net income climbed to $359 million, from $358.5 million a year earlier.
Restoration
Restoration Hardware raised $123.9 million, pricing its initial public offering at the top of the proposed range.