U.S. stocks eked out a third straight gain, though finished well off session highs after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., cast doubt on reaching a fresh rescue bill before some current benefits expire.

U.S. stocks gained in a flood of trading caused by expiring options and futures contracts. Treasuries rose and the dollar halted its rally as investors studied unprecedented government measures to shield jobs and economies from the coronavirus pandemic.