US market today: Stocks edge higher as tariff deadline gets extended, Merck-Verona deal boosts investors sentiment

US stocks climbed on Wednesday following President Trump's decision to extend the tariff deadline to August 1, easing market anxieties. The S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq all experienced gains in early trading. Investors are also anticipating the release of the Federal Reserve's June meeting minutes, while monitoring oil and copper prices for further market direction.