Europe's big banks in tentative return to growth mode

LONDON, Sept 12 (Reuters) - Europe's big banks returned to growth mode in the first half of this year, expanding their books by 530 million euros ($685 million), in a sign they are starting to get back on their feet after the financial crisis.

EU to move spotlight from austerity to reforms on Wednesday

(Reuters) - The European Commission will further shift the EU's policy focus from austerity to structural reforms to revive growth when it presents economic recommendations for each member state on Wednesday, officials said.

Knocking on EU's door, Serbia tries to tap investment potential

BELGRADE (Reuters) - Serbs pride themselves on their hospitality, and Abu Dhabi's crown prince got the full treatment this year: skiing in the mountains, a tour of Belgrade's Red Star soccer club and a parting gift of hand-knitted woollen socks.

France, Italy see leeway on budget rules at EU summit

(Reuters) - France and Italy won support for a slightly more growth-friendly interpretation of European Union budget rules at a summit on Thursday after French President Francois Hollande challenged German-driven fiscal austerity.

Stocks turn higher after 2 days of declines

NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks turned higher on Wall Street Friday, reversing an early loss. The advance halted two days of sharp declines caused by concern that political wrangling in Washington could push the U.S. economy back into recession.

Greece bailout: Merkel and Hollande in extension talks

The leaders of Germany and France are set to hold talks in Berlin on whether to give Greece more time to make the cuts required by its debt bailout.

EU plans for possible Greek exit from euro - official

The European Commission and European Central Bank are making contingency plans for a possible Greek exit from the euro, an EU commissioner says.

Greece turns to growth, elections after debt deal

ATHENS: After the success of a debt cut plan which paves the way for a 130-billion euro ($170.55 billion) international bailout, attention in Athens is shifting to politics and on how to kick-start debt-laden Greece's stricken economy, officials said on Saturday.