News Summary

Shares of Wal-Mart Stores Inc WMT lost about 0.4% after the company agreed to purchase a 51% stake in South Africa's Massmart Holdings Ltd for 16.5 billion rand ($2.32 billion) in cash. Doug McMillon, president and chief executive of Walmart International said, “The more we learn about South Africa and the surrounding countries the more we are convinced that this is an important region with attractive growth characteristics.” McMillon added, “We continue to be excited by the opportunity to invest in Massmart's business and to accelerate its growth and expansion in South Africa.” Cardinal Health Inc CAH has bought privately-held Zuellig Pharma China for $470 million. George Barrett, chairman and chief executive officer of Cardinal Health said, "The acquisition of Yong Yu follows an extensive evaluation of opportunities to drive growth in targeted geographies outside of North America where we believe our core capabilities would add value. China is an extraordinary market of enormous potential. We are proud to be able to participate in the ongoing evolution of the country's health care system and we are confident that Yong Yu will provide the ideal platform from which to grow our portfolio in China." CAH shares are down about 1%. Crude oil rose along with gold futures, as Ireland received a $113 billion aid package. Crude oil for January delivery gained 1% to $84.66 per barrel. However, Gold for December rose $0.70 to $1,362.90 an ounce. Read more from Benzinga's Markets.