U.S. officials optimistic they will close giant trade deal

Talks aimed at concluding a landmark 12-nation trade pact were continuing through the night Saturday as negotiators attempted to break a deadlock over the length of monopoly protections for a new class of cutting-edge medicines — among the last issues holding up a key part of President Barack Obama’s economic legacy.
After extending their stay for a fifth day, U.S. officials said they remain optimistic they can clinch a deal Sunday.