WOMEN IN BUSINESS: Washington is the top state for women small business owners. A report by small business platform Lendio found that 42% of businesses across the state are owned by women, the largest percentage in the U.S. 34% of those generate more than $1 million in annual revenue. Further, 23% of venture capital deals across the state went to women-owned businesses, significantly higher than the national average.

DOG DAYS: In response to media speculation, Costco’s new leadership team confirmed its commitment to keeping the $1.50 hot dog and soda combo. Analysts were watching closely as new CFO Gary Millerchip called the price “safe.” Costco sales jumped more than 9% in the company’s fiscal third quarter to $57.4 billion.

STOCKWATCH: The Dow gained 140 points to close at 38,711. Nasdaq rose 28 and the S&P 500 gained 8.