Earlier this week, Honda Motor and Nissan confirmed they are in talks about a possible merger at time of auto industry upheaval. Toyota stock cleared a key level on Friday. Honda stock rallied further above a technical level,

A potential merger of Honda and Nissan, and its alliance partners Mitsubishi and Renault SA, could create a new manufacturer worth $79.9 billion, producing 8 million cars a year.

Both Toyota and Honda posted quarterly profit declines in November, amid challenges in critical global markets, including the U.S. Japan and China. Reported Toyota ROE Target. On

Toyota shares soared Thursday after Nikkei reported the company aims to double its return on equity target to 20%, citing an unnamed executive.

Key Takeaways U.S.-traded shares of Toyota Motor surged Thursday following a report from Nikkei that the carmaker is aiming for a 20% return on equity.Analysts were reportedly anticipating an 11% return on equity this fiscal year.