German exports plunge by largest amount in five-and-a-half years

(Reuters) - German exports slumped by 5.8 percent in August, their biggest fall since the height of the global financial crisis in January 2009, in yet another sign that Europe's largest economy is faltering amid broader euro zone weakness and crises abroad.

A Scottish currency is still likely to be the toughest test for Holyrood

There is no doubting the emotional appeal of independence. For many Scots the positive lure of self-determination is perhaps matched only by the satisfaction of banishing control from Westminster.

AFRICA INVESTMENT-Africa sovereign funds tread tricky path on investments

LONDON, Sept 11 (Reuters) - As the oil producers of sub-Saharan Africa rush to create sovereign wealth funds, competing pressures to boost living standards now while saving for the future can throw up as many problems as they solve.

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.

Italy's new economy minister aims to cut taxes and spending

ROME (Reuters) - Italy's new economy minister Fabrizio Saccomanni plans to cut taxes and public spending and lower borrowing costs, according to an interview published on Sunday in daily la Repubblica.