Stock futures improved during the early session as reports pointing to progress on trade talks with China have given investors reason to be optimistic. The ongoing talks will now move to Washington next week, according to multiple media reports, which also quoted White House officials as having a positive tone on what was accomplished during a visit to China this week. The futures action led to a higher open for the broader market, which is looking to extend its most recent rally and end the week with gains. About 25 minutes into trading, the S&P is up 22 points, the Dow is up 276 points and the Nasdaq is up 18 points.