Official data points to loss of momentum in UK economy

Further evidence of a slowing British economy came on Friday as official figures showed a surprise drop in construction in November and falling industrial output as oil and gas output declined sharply.

Home and Jobs Data Suggests Momentum

WASHINGTON — Sales of existing homes in the United States rose in July to a 10-month high, and the number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits fell last week, signaling strength in the economy early in the third quarter.

Bank of England expected to keep interest rates on hold

Interest rates are expected to remain on hold on Thursday as policymakers weigh up the mounting arguments for a first change in more than five years.

World markets battered again

Asia stocks took yet another dive on Tuesday, as fearful investors cut their losses amid a broad regional slump. Japan's benchmark Nikkei index fell 4.2%, extending its tumble this year to just over 14%.

UK has already returned to growth, says OECD

Triple-dip recession fears eased as a leading economic forecaster said the UK has already returned to growth, while officials reported the dominant services sector has expanded at its strongest pace in five months.

Dow hits 14,000 for 1st time since October 2007

NEW YORK (AP) — The Dow stock market index flirted with the 14,000 line Friday, dashing above it several times throughout the morning and bringing reminders of the last time it hit that mark — almost a different era, before the financial crisis rocked the world economy.

In India, undercurrents of optimism about reform

After a storm-tossed six months for the economy, India's authorities are trying to get things back on an even keel.