Companies likely to see active trading in today’s session are Salix Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SLXP), Zipcar Inc (NASDAQ:ZIP), Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ), Magnum Hunter Resources Corp (NYSE:MHR), Synergy Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:SGYP) and Bridgepoint Education Inc (NYSE:BPI).
Salix Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SLXP): The company announced today that its anti-diarrheal molecule for HIV patients has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Shares were up 3.53 percent to $41.90 in early market trading.
Zipcar Inc (NASDAQ:ZIP): The car sharing company is being acquired by Avis Budget Group Inc. for about $500 million in cash. Avis is aggressively expanding its car-rental business. Avis is giving $12.25 per Zipcar share, or 49 percent premium over its closing price on Monday. Zipcar shares surged 48.30 percent to $12.23.
Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ): The USFDA has approved Johnson & Johnson’s tuberculosis drug Sirturo. Shares were up 1 percent to $70.78 per share.
Magnum Hunter Resources Corp (NYSE:MHR): The natural resources company has signed a joint operating agreement with Eclipse Resources LP. Under the agreement, both the companies will own 47 percent interest in Marcellus Shale and Utica Shale formations. Magnum Hunter shares were up 3 percent to $4.11 in early trading.
Synergy Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:SGYP): The biopharmaceuticals firm said its plecanatide molecule for constipation has successfully met the primary and secondary objectives of Phase 2b/3 clinical trial. The company is studying the drug for various digestion related problems. Synergy Pharma shares jumped 11.41 percent to $5.86 in early trading.
Bridgepoint Education Inc (NYSE:BPI): The for-profit educator said in a regulatory filing that the Justice Department has declined to prosecute the company after receiving complaints that Bridgepoint has violated federal rules while compensating the admissions staff. Shares were up 2.43 percent to $10.55 in early trading session,
The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ:MIDD) may also attract traders. The food service equipment maker has agreed to acquire Viking Range Corp. for $380 million in cash, to expand its business in the residential sector.
