US Stocks edge up after ADP jobs data

U.S. stocks edged higher at the open on Wednesday after a report showed private employers cut fewer jobs in February, adding to optimism ahead of a critical employment report later in the week.

The Dow Jones industrial average (.DJI) gained 21.39 points, or 0.21 percent, to 10,427.37. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index (.SPX) rose 1.98 points, or 0.18 percent, to 1,120.29. The Nasdaq Composite Index (.IXIC) added 3.74 points, or 0.16 percent, to 2,284.53.

The ADP Employment report showed U.S. private employers shed 20,000 jobs in February, matching the consensus estimate in a Reuters survey, and fewer than the 60,000 jobs cut in January.