Midday Report: Chicago Manufacturing at Highest Since 2014; Wall Street Mostly Higher

Summary: Stocks were mostly higher to end the week as benchmark indexes looked to close out the second quarter with healthy gains. Strong fundamentals and a positive earnings season have given markets a boost over the past three months. Manufacturing conditions in the Chicago region showed unexpected improvement in June, reaching its highest level since 2014. Any reading over 50 indicates expansion. Consumer sentiment weakened slightly in June, though beat economists' estimates. Consumer expectations dipped, while sentiment on current conditions strengthened. Hain Celestial Group rose after activist investor Engaged Capital reportedly pressed the company to sell itself. Engaged has submitted seven candidates for the company's board.