First Solar Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) shares were up 5.6 percent to $164.79. Volume for the stock was 2.6 million, or nearly twice its daily average, after Goldman Sachs Group Inc. listed the maker of solar modules as its number one pick in the clean-energy sector.

Cisco Systems Inc. (Nasdaq: CSCO) traded in 33.5 million shares, less than half its daily average of 73.4 million. Prices for CSCO raced ahead 0.6 percent to $21.59.

Hospira Inc. (NYSE: HSP) shares declined 7.1 percent to $51.11. Volume of 10.4 million proved nearly 10 times its daily average, after the medical-device maker reported fourth-quarter results and guidance below expectations.