Netscape Stock Snares 20-Point Gain

Netscape Communications' stock took another leap into the stratosphere today closing at $131 per share, up 20 points from yesterday's close of $111.

Industry analyst Michael Levine attributes the gain to a post-Comdex high. "Everyone wants to be connected with Netscape," says Levine. "There's a growing realization that it is the standard." Levine says he hasn't heard any takeover rumors but adds, "It wouldn't surprise me. They're a very attractive candidate."

Other analysts say the jump is mystifying. Netscape chair Jim Clark will speak tomorrow morning on the subject of online security at the Email/Internet World trade show in Boston.

In other high-tech stock news, Sun Microsystems' shares are up 4 1/4, closing today at 81 1/2.