Illumina Inc., based in San Diego, provides sequencing and array-based solutions for genetic analysis. The company's products and services are sold to genomic research centers, academic institutions, government and commercial laboratories, and hospitals, as well as to pharmaceutical, biotech, agrigenomics, and consumer genomics businesses. The company's portfolio of products and services is designed to accelerate and simplify genetic analysis. Illumina also invests in startup companies that are pursuing promising genomic-related opportunities. It has roughly 8,600 employees. ILMN shares are included in the S&P 500 index.

The major stock indices all finished in the green on Wednesday, led by the Russell 2000 (up 1.13%), while the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq Composite all were up about 0.50%. Stocks got a little breathing room after some weaker-than-expected jobs data led to a slight pullback in Treasury yields. But oil continues to push higher on unrest in the Middle East, with a barrel of crude now changing hands at just over $90.

Stock indices saw minor gains on Wednesday and, once again, the fireworks were in individual names. There also was an explosion in the metals, crypto currencies, and the U.S. Dollar Index (USD). All the action was driven by headlines -- and for a day in August when we are supposed to be in the summer doldrums, things were quite newsy.

Illumina provides tools and services to analyze genetic material with life science and clinical lab applications. The company generates over 90% of its revenue from sequencing instruments, consumables, and services. Illumina’s high-throughput technology enables whole genome sequencing in humans and other large organisms. Its lower throughput tools enable applications that require smaller data outputs, such as viral and cancer tumor screening. Illumina also sells microarrays that enable lower-cost, focused genetic screening with primarily consumer and agricultural applications.