Tech stocks bring gains…Government wants crash reports
NEW YORK (AP) — Technology companies have pushed the broader market moderately higher, while a report showed solid growth in consumer confidence. Major banks announced plans to return billions more to their shareholders in the form of dividends and stock buybacks. Homebuilders made gains following a report on surging home prices. With two trading days left in June, the market is getting ready to close out a strong first half of the year as the economy emerges from its pandemic-induced recession.
DETROIT (AP) — The U.S. government’s highway safety agency has ordered automakers to report any crashes involving fully autonomous vehicles or partially automated driver assist systems. The move by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates the agency is taking a tougher stance on automated vehicle safety than in the past. It’s been reluctant to issue any regulations of the new technology for fear of hampering adoption of potentially life-saving technology.