U.S. stocks finished higher on Wednesday, on a combination of improved economic data and easing concerns about Europe's debt crisis. In world markets, European stocks ended higher, led by the DAX in Germany rising 2.5 percent. Asian markets ended mostly lower, with the declines led by the Shanghai Composite falling 1.1 percent. Investors welcomed signs that talks in Greece are progressing on a second aid fund and a write down of the nation's private-sector debt load. In U.S. economic news, the U.S. factories grew in January at the fastest pace since June, boosted by an increase in new orders. The Institute for Supply Management said that its manufacturing index rose last month to 54.1 from 53.1 in December. Readings over 50 indicate expansion. --More
