By MarketWatch MARKETWATCH FRONT PAGE U.S. stock futures are trading higher Wednesday, but volumes in the holiday environment remain low. See full story. China auto shares mixed as incentive expiry looms Chinese automobile stocks trade mixed after the government announces it will allow a tax incentive on small-car purchases to lapse by the end of the week, marking the latest move by China to ease the growth in vehicle use. See full story. GM shares rise on upbeat analyst notes Barclays Capital, Credit Suisse initiate coverage of auto giant at outperform. See full story. Wednesday’s biggest gaining and declining stocks MarketWatch’s daily rundown of major gainers and decliners in the U.S. stock market. See full story. Stocks in focus Wednesday: Allstate, GM Here’s a sampling of companies expected to see active trade in the upcoming session. See full story. MARKETWATCH COMMENTARY The stock market over the last couple of centuries has exhibited particular strength between Christmas and New Years. And, since that strength has been most pronounced in countries that celebrate Christmas, this strength can genuinely go by the name “Santa Claus Rally.” See full story. MARKETWATCH PERSONAL FINANCE In January, hundreds of thousands of low-income workers will have a good reason to celebrate as the minimum wage in seven states ticks higher, but the outlook for pay hikes for other workers is not bright. See full story.

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