BHEL boiler auxiliaries division cuts cost, raises profit

CHENNAI – Strategic sourcing and value engineering in production have helped Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd’s (BHEL) boiler auxiliaries division at Ranipet near here to cut cost substantially and increase profit.

“Between September – November 2009, the steel prices went down and we bought our annual requirement then. We sourced steel at Rs.26,000-Rs.28,000 per tonne. Our …. Original source  : BHEL boiler auxiliaries division cuts cost, raises profit.

Nasscom lists Kerala IT company as top innovator of 2009

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Trade forum National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) has listed Kerala-based IBS Software as one of the top 50 innovators in India for the year 2009.

The company is a technology solutions provider to the travel, transportation and logistics industries. It was nominated in the “market facing innovation” category for its product … Original article on : Nasscom lists Kerala IT company as top innovator of 2009.

Sponge iron units in Chhattisgarh hit by ore supply woes

RAIPUR – Production in some 50 sponge iron units in Chhattisgarh has been halted after private miners in neighbouring Orissa stopped supplying iron ore about a month ago, an industry official said Monday.

“Chhattisgarh has 105 sponge iron units having an annual output of 8 million tonnes, but production has been stopped completely at nearly 50 …. Read the original article  : Sponge iron units in Chhattisgarh hit by ore supply woes.

ECODISC offers new pressure relief products from its improved website

MUMBAI – The pressure relief industry’s only online supplier of rupture discs and explosion panels, ECODISC, has launched a new website (www.ecodisc.com).

The website is the only one in the sector to allow for web-based ordering through its secure online store.
With its improved design, new features and enhanced navigational and search options, ECODISC’s latest website offers … Read more >>.

Oil rises above $85 in Asia, extending rally as improving US jobs market cheers investors

Oil rises above $85 as US jobs market improves

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $85 a barrel Monday in Asia, extending gains from last week as investors bet an improving U.S. job market will herald growing crude demand.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 30 cents to $85.17 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time …. Original article  : Oil rises above $85 in Asia, extending rally as improving US jobs market cheers investors.

Oil rises above $86 in Asia, extending rally as improving US jobs market cheers investors

Oil rises above $86 as US jobs market improves

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $85 a barrel Monday in Asia, extending gains from last week as investors bet an improving U.S. job market will herald growing crude demand.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 30 cents to $85.17 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Report: North Korea executed 2 officials over botched currency reform

Report: 2 N. Koreans executed over currency reform

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea executed two senior economic officials last month – not one as previously reported – over a botched currency revamp that forced markets to close temporarily and fueled social tensions, a media outlet that specializes in the North reported.
The communist North redenominated its …. Original source  : Report: North Korea executed 2 officials over botched currency reform.

Nepal PM summoned over Indian passport deal

KATHMANDU – The uproar in Nepal over the government’s decision to award a prestigious passport deal to an Indian company continued Monday with a parliamentary committee summoning Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal for an explanation.

The prime minister, who is facing mounting pressure from the opposition Maoist party to quit, appeared before the Public Accounts Committee … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal PM summoned over Indian passport deal.

Niche airline operators eye the versatile Twin Otter

NEW DELHI – India’s niche airline operators have shown interest in the Twin Otter small aircraft that has the unique ability to operate from land, water or snow and also has applications in the defence sectors.

“Companies like Pawan Hans and (regional airline) Air One, as also corporates like Essar and Religare, have expressed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oil rises to near $86 in Asia, extending rally as improving US jobs market cheers investors

Oil rises to near $86 as US jobs market improves

SINGAPORE – Oil prices jumped to near $86 a barrel Monday in Asia, extending gains from last week as investors bet an improving U.S. job market will herald growing crude demand.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 80 cents to $85.67 a barrel at midday Singapore … Read more »».

Most Asian stock markets gain as US jobs report suggests consumption improving

Asian shares advance on US jobs market recovery

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets were mostly higher Monday after an encouraging U.S. jobs report offered the latest sign the global economy is on the mend.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average rose 0.5 percent to 11,339.30, Singapore’s benchmark index also increased 0.5 percent, Indonesia jumped 1.7 percent and India …. Source  : Most Asian stock markets gain as US jobs report suggests consumption improving.

Japan stock market advances on US jobs report, weaker yen

Asian shares modestly up in early trading
TOKYO – Asian stock markets made modest gains in early trading Monday after an encouraging U.S. jobs report offered the latest sign the global economy is on the mend.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average rose 0.5 percent to 11,343.65, while South Korea’s Kospi index was flat at 1,722.97.
On Friday, the …. Read the original article  : Japan stock market advances on US jobs report, weaker yen.

US jobs report sends Asian stock markets higher in early trading

Asian stock markets rise in early trading
TOKYO – Asian stock markets climbed in early trading Monday after an encouraging U.S. jobs report offered the latest sign the global economy is on the mend.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average rose 0.6 percent to 11,349.73, while South Korea’s Kospi index added 0.3 percent to 1,729.27.
On Friday, the U.S. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

SandRidge Energy shifting focus to oil from natural gas with $1.6 billion Arena buy

SandRidge to buy Arena Resources for $1.6B

Oil and gas explorer SandRidge Energy Inc. is buying fellow developer Arena Resources Inc. for $1.6 billion as the continued drop in natural gas prices drives a bigger focus on oil resources, the companies said Sunday.
Arena shareholders will receive $2.50 in cash and about 4.78 shares of SandRidge stock …. Original article  : SandRidge Energy shifting focus to oil from natural gas with $1.6 billion Arena buy.

Egypt release publisher of book that supports former UN nuclear chief, calls for change

Egypt police release publisher of book
CAIRO – An Egyptian official says police have released the owner of a publishing house which printed copies of a book that called for political change and praised the former head of the U.N. nuclear agency.

Ahmed Mahanna, owner of Dawin publishing, was released Sunday, a day after his home and … Original article on : Egypt release publisher of book that supports former UN nuclear chief, calls for change.

Health care reform promise explicitly excludes millions of illegal immigrants

Health care reform leaves out illegal immigrants
FRESNO, Calif. – Paula Medrano shifts uncomfortably on the doctor’s examination table, holding out a wrist inflamed and swollen by arthritis. The 78-year-old has no health insurance, lives below the federal poverty level, and can’t pay for the medication she needs.
Just days before her appointment, President Barack …. Read the original article  : Health care reform promise explicitly excludes millions of illegal immigrants.

West Virginia’s NCAA loss spreads disappointment across a state, down into its coal mines

Mountaineers’ season ends in mountain of pain

INDIANAPOLIS – The hometown coach takes the hometown team to the Final Four, one game away from breaking a 106-year drought without a championship.
The run by West Virginia drew jaw-dropping support across the state, even down into the coal mines dotting the rugged landscape. To the fans, the coach, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Water bills go up in down economy as usage drops from slow manufacturing, real estate, tourism

Water bills go up in down economy as usage drops

PORTLAND, Maine – The grim economy is hitting some consumers in the wallet in yet another way: their water bills.
Many water utilities are raising rates because water use is down. That’s partly because manufacturers have closed or are cutting back, tourism has fallen and the real … Read : Water bills go up in down economy as usage drops from slow manufacturing, real estate, tourism.

World’s tallest tower in Dubai reopens observation deck 2 months after elevator malfunction

World’s tallest tower in Dubai reopens
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The observation deck of the world’s tallest skyscraper reopened Sunday in Dubai, two months after an elevator malfunction left visitors trapped more than 120 stories above the ground and forced it to close.

Dozens of tourists were lining up Sunday for tickets to take an elevator … Read more : World’s tallest tower in Dubai reopens observation deck 2 months after elevator malfunction.

White House: Expect slow jobs rebound even as economy shows signs of reversing downward spiral

White House braces unemployed for slow job rebound
WASHINGTON – Buoyed by good news on the jobs front, the White House claimed credit Sunday for reversing the downward economic spiral while bracing out-of-work Americans for a slow recovery.
The Obama administration also eased away from confrontation with China over its artificially low … Read this article on Gaea Times at : White House: Expect slow jobs rebound even as economy shows signs of reversing downward spiral.

India, US launch financial, economic partnership

NEW DELHI – India and the United States Tuesday launched a financial and economic partnership, focussing on micro-economic finance and infrastructure, in an effort to elevate their bilateral relations.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and visiting US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner signed the partnership agreement here.
“India and the United States are bound by common values of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, US launch financial, economic partnership.

Spanish jobless claims up by 35,988 in March, less than in previous months

Spanish unemployment claims at 4.16 million

MADRID – The number of people signing for unemployment benefits in Spain rose by 35,988 in March, an improvement from previous months which politicians claimed as proof the country is slowly emerging from a crippling recession.
The monthly increase meant a total of 4.17 million people were now claiming unemployment benefits, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Force India’s Belgium podium voted 2009 LG moment of the year by fans

NEW DELHI – Formula OneT fans have voted Force India’s achievement at the 2009 Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix their LG Moment of the Year for 2009, as the results of the latest LG Global Fan Survey went public in this month’s F1 Racing magazine.

Close to 90,000 people worldwide who took part in the wide-ranging …. Original article  : Force India’s Belgium podium voted 2009 LG moment of the year by fans.

SERV Trayvou introduces new range of modular interlocks to Indian market

MUMBAI – French safety specialist SERV Trayvou Interverrouillage has introduced a new range of modular and completely mechanical interlocks, the NX.

The NX range comprises mechanical bolt locks, modules such as clasps for padlocks or electrical safety contacts, and accessories, including different types of access latch. The system relies on trapped-key technology.
Because it is a modular … Read : SERV Trayvou introduces new range of modular interlocks to Indian market.

Differences within Jharkhand BJP over LPG subsidy

RANCHI – The Jharkhand government’s decision to withdraw subsidy on gas cylinders for domestic use has brought to the open the internal squabbling within the Bharatiya Janata Party, a partner in the Shibu Soren-led coalition government.

On the first day of the new fiscal, finance minister Raghubar Das, who is also the state BJP president and …. Source article  : Differences within Jharkhand BJP over LPG subsidy.

Oil hovers above $86 near 18-month high in Asia after 2-month, 24 percent rally

Oil hovers above $86 after 2-month, 24 pct rally

SINGAPORE – Oil prices hovered near 18-month highs above $86 a barrel Tuesday in Asia as traders mulled whether a recovering U.S. economy warranted further gains.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was down 20 cents to $86.42 a barrel at midday Singapore time in electronic trading on the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oil hovers above $86 near 18-month high in Asia after 2-month, 24 percent rally.

Russia’s Novolipetsk Steel reports $294 million net profit in 4th quarter

Novolipetsk Steel makes Q4 net profit
MOSCOW – Russian steelmaker Novolipetsk Steel said Tuesday it made a net profit of $294 million in the fourth quarter, compared with a loss a year earlier, on the back of strong metals prices.

Russia’s third-biggest steelmaker is owned by Vladimir Lisin, who has been listed by Forbes magazine as the …. Source  : Russia’s Novolipetsk Steel reports $294 million net profit in 4th quarter.

Top RNC official quits amid criticism over spending, but Steele says he won’t resign

RNC official steps down, but Steele stands firm

WASHINGTON – The controversy over Republican National Committee spending has led to the resignation of its chief of staff, but party Chairman Michael Steele remains insistent that he isn’t going anywhere.
The resignation of RNC chief of staff Ken McKay on Monday made him the highest-profile official to depart …. Original source  : Top RNC official quits amid criticism over spending, but Steele says he won’t resign.

Red Shirt protesters flood streets of Thai capital after breaking police lines

Red Shirt protesters flood streets of Thai capital

BANGKOK – Thousands of anti-government demonstrators broke through police and military lines Tuesday to flood the streets around Bangkok’s business district and other areas of Thailand’s capital.
The Red Shirt protesters, many on motorcycles, massed near Silom Road, a financial center, from the commercial shopping district they had occupied [..] Read the original article: here.

Australia not to supply uranium to India

MELBOURNE – Australia Tuesday ruled out changing its policy and said it would not supply uranium to India, which is seeking fuel for its nuclear energy programme, a media report said.

Australian Trade Minister Simon Crean told reporters in Canberra: “There is no prospect for a change.
“We have consistently said, made this clear to … Read more : Australia not to supply uranium to India.

For American business, India is the new land of opportunity

WASHINGTON – From healthcare to technology to media, there is growing excitement in every sector in the United States about India, not just because it’s cheaper to do business in India but for the opportunities that a nation of 1.2 billion people with its growing economy offers.

This came out loud and clear at Duke University’s …. Original source  : For American business, India is the new land of opportunity.

Asian stock markets mixed as traders mull how much recovering US economy can boost region

Asian stock markets mixed as US economy recovers

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets were mixed Tuesday as traders mulled whether a recovering U.S. economy would allow the region to continue to expand at a breakneck pace.
Australia’s benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index led gainers, jumping 0.9 percent to 4,953.70 while Singapore rose 0.4 percent and Malaysia increased 0.2 … Read more : Asian stock markets mixed as traders mull how much recovering US economy can boost region.

Money Market Operations as on April 01, 2010

… Original article on : Money Market Operations as on April 01, 2010.

Money Market Operations as on April 3, 2010

… Original article on : Money Market Operations as on April 3, 2010.

Issue of Rs.20/- denomination banknotes with `R’ Inset letter in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series ??? 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor

The Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue Rs.20/- denomination banknotes with `R’  inset letter in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series – 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor.  Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued … Read : Issue of Rs.20/- denomination banknotes with `R’ Inset letter in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series ??? 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor.

Ways and Means Advances to the Government of India for the Financial Year 2010-11

It has been decided in consultation with the Government of India that the following arrangements will be in force for the financial year 2010-11.
The limit for Ways and Means Advances (WMA) will be Rs.30,000 crore for the first half of the year …. Read the original article  : Ways and Means Advances to the Government of India for the Financial Year 2010-11.

RBI further expands coverage of its “Database on Indian Economy”

The Reserve Bank of India has further expanded the coverage of its "Database on Indian Economy", an on-line database built on the data warehousing technology with enhanced functionality, to include static reports on Urban Cooperative Banks and Rural Cooperative Banks. With the release of these data series, the Database … Read more >>.

Money Market Operations as on April 5, 2010

… Read more »».

Hitachi president says ecological business, social infrastructure key to recovery

Hitachi president says green focus key to recovery

TOKYO – Money-losing Hitachi will focus on ecological businesses including hybrid railways and batteries for green cars in its latest effort to return to profitability, its new president said Tuesday.
The electronics maker must use its sprawling assets in telecommunications and “social infrastructure” such as power systems and data …. Read the original article  : Hitachi president says ecological business, social infrastructure key to recovery.

Healed, healthy Placido Domingo opens latest NY restaurant, ready to sing after cancer surgery

Healthy Domingo opens NY restaurant, ready to sing

NEW YORK – Placido Domingo is back – ready to sing around the world.
But first, on Monday, the star tenor opened his new Manhattan restaurant – four weeks after colon cancer surgery.
“I was lucky to have the pain,” said the 69-year-old Spaniard, who was forced to interrupt a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

IMF inspectors to meet Greek finance minister amid volatile borrowing costs

IMF, Greek officials to meet amid market worries

ATHENS, Greece – Inspectors from the International Monetary Fund will meet Greece’s finance minister to find ways to speed up fiscal reforms, as the debt-plagued country continues to grapple with volatile borrowing costs.
Wednesday’s meeting with George Papaconstantinou, which will be closed to the news media, comes at the … Read more >>>.

Renault-Nissan and Daimler agree to tie-up aimed at developing fuel efficient vehicles

Renault-Nissan, Daimler unveil tie-up plan

BRUSSELS – Carmakers Renault SA, Nissan Motor Co. and Daimler AG unveiled Wednesday a wide-ranging three-way tie-up to bolster their offerings in small, energy-efficient vehicles.
The partnership comes amid a painful industrywide slump and will be sealed with a cross-shareholding giving the three companies small, symbolic stakes in each other. The move … Read : Renault-Nissan and Daimler agree to tie-up aimed at developing fuel efficient vehicles.

India’s seafood exports to rise

KOCHI – Seafood exports are set to rise this fiscal due to favourable policies of the central government and the industry’s expansion to new markets in China and Southeast Asia, according to the Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI).

SEAI secretary Sandu Joseph told IANS that seafood exports till the end of January had registered a … Read : India’s seafood exports to rise.

Hyundai launches new i20 compact car

NEW DELHI – Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) Wednesday launched a new i20 car with two additional variants – Era and Sportz – priced in the range of Rs.4.51-5.31 lakh.

“We are pleased to announce the launch of the i20 with new features and two additional variants. While the variants are targeted at our customers who …. Original source  : Hyundai launches new i20 compact car.

Leader of striking employees held in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – The head of the Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC), spearheading the Jammu and Kashmir government employees’ strike that entered its third day Wednesday, has been taken into “preventive custody” to maintain law and order, police said.

Abdul Qayoom Wani was nabbed from Srinagar’s Parimpora area.
“He has been taken into preventive custody in … Read more »».

Toyota warned European distributors about pedal problems well before telling US government

Europeans warned of Toyota pedals well before US

WASHINGTON – Long before Toyota told U.S. regulators about sticking accelerator pedals, the Japanese automaker warned its distributors throughout Europe about similar problems, documents obtained by The Associated Press show.
Concerns about sticking gas pedals and complaints from Toyota owners in the U.S. were rising at the end of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

10 Common Mistakes in Filing Online Tax Returns in USA

CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Tax returns in USA is used for calculating income tax or other taxes. Tax returns are one type of reports filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or with the state or local tax collection agency. The easiest and convenient way for tax returns is Efiling. But while filing tax returns … Read more »».

Underwriting Auctions for Government securities

The Government of India have announced the sale (reissue) of “6.85 per cent Government Stock 2012 “ for a notified amount of Rs. 5,000 crore (nominal), “6.35 per cent Government Stock 2020” for a notified amount of Rs.5,000 crore (nominal)  and "8.26 per cent Government Stock 2027"  for …. Source  : Underwriting Auctions for Government securities.

IDFC, IDEAcarbon enter into alliance to enhance carbon market mechanisms in India

MUMBAI – Infrastructure Development Finance Company Ltd. (IDFC) and IDEAcarbon, the company that instituted ratings of carbon assets, signed a strategic working alliance today to encourage the adoption of ratings of environmental assets by market participants and develop other products to help a structured growth of the Indian carbon market.

IDEAcarbon, that owns The Carbon Rating …. Original source  : IDFC, IDEAcarbon enter into alliance to enhance carbon market mechanisms in India.

‘Love motel’ upsets neighbours in New Zealand

AUCKLAND – New Zealand’s first so-called “love motel”, which will allow its customers to book rooms on hourly basis for “private intimacy”, is sparking outrage in Auckland with neighbours saying it is nothing more than a sleazy brothel.

The motel Desire will look just like other love motels around the world where couples and singles … Read : ‘Love motel’ upsets neighbours in New Zealand.

Unemployment rises to 14-year high in Spain

Madrid, April 7 (IANS/EFE) The number of jobless people in Spain has risen to a 14-year high of more than 4.16 million, with the addition of another 35,998 to the unemployment rolls in March, the government has said.

Unemployment has grown for eight consecutive months, and by 561,221 people, the Labour and Immigration Ministry said … Read more : Unemployment rises to 14-year high in Spain.

Woof! It’s a dog’s world at Kerala supermarket

THRISSUR – Thrissur is fast becoming the “kennel capital” of Kerala, thanks to a supermarket for dogs. From NRIs to foreigners, people are flocking to it for electronic toys, toothbrushes, vaccines, shoes and more – all for the canines.

Owned by Anoj Cheeran, the supermarket is known as “Cheeran’s”. It has been in business for five …. Read the original article  : Woof! It’s a dog’s world at Kerala supermarket.

33 firms fined for deforestation in Brazil

Brasilia, April 7 (IANS/EFE) Thirty-three companies in Brazil have been fined for deforestation and irregularities in managing their industrial activities, the Brazilian Environmental Institute (Ibama) has said.

The violators, most of them operating in the Amazon region, were fined a total of 275 million reais ($152.7 million) and most of the sanctions were due to … Read more >>.

Spain sets $789 mn budget for electric vehicles

Madrid, April 7 (IANS/EFE) Spain has presented a 590-million euro ($789 million) budget to promote electric vehicles in the country and is set to register more than 70,000 all-electric and hybrid cars by 2012.

The aim is a total registration of 250,000 units by 2014, Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said Tuesday.
Subsidies of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spain sets $789 mn budget for electric vehicles.

Oil hovers below $87 in Asia after mixed US crude, gasoline inventory report

Oil hovers below $87 after mixed US supply report

SINGAPORE – Oil prices hovered below $87 a barrel Wednesday in Asia after a report showed U.S. gasoline supplies fell more than expected last week while crude and distillate inventories rose.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was down 1 cent to $86.83 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oil hovers below $87 in Asia after mixed US crude, gasoline inventory report.

SEC would require Wall St. firms to provide fuller disclosure on asset-backed securities

SEC seeks tighter rules on asset-backed securities

WASHINGTON – Remember mortgage-backed securities? They were the go-go house of cards that collapsed and nearly brought down the financial system, helping usher in the recession.
In response, lawmakers and government agencies have been trying to lay down stricter rules for asset-backed securities.
The Securities and Exchange Commission will weigh in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : SEC would require Wall St. firms to provide fuller disclosure on asset-backed securities.

Earlier Easter, signs of consumer strength likely helped March sales rise in many sectors

Shoppers likely gave March sales Easter boost

NEW YORK – An earlier Easter and modest consumer spending rebound helped retail sales rise in March, particularly furniture and luxury goods, categories that were the worst hit during the recession, according to an early measurement.
The latest numbers out Wednesday from MasterCard Advisor’s SpendingPulse show sales rose in most …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Earlier Easter, signs of consumer strength likely helped March sales rise in many sectors.

Japan central bank keeps key interest rate unchanged at 0.1 percent

Japan central bank stays put on interest rates

TOKYO – Japan’s central bank kept its key interest rate unchanged and held off on new easing steps Wednesday, saying the economy is improving.
The Bank of Japan’s policy board voted unanimously to keep its overnight call rate at a super-low 0.1 percent. The bank has not tweaked that … Read : Japan central bank keeps key interest rate unchanged at 0.1 percent.

Fruita voters make town first in Colorado to impose extra tax on medical marijuana

In Colorado town, voters tax pot before it arrives

FRUITA, Colo. – A small western Colorado town has become the first in the state to levy a city tax on medical marijuana, even though it doesn’t yet have a dispensary.
Voters in Fruita, a town of about 11,000 at the foot of the majestic Colorado National Monument, …. Read the original article  : here.

Asian stock markets mostly rise on hopes low interest rates will boost economic growth

Asian shares higher amid strong economic growth

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets were mostly higher Wednesday amid expectations low global interest rates will continue to fuel strong economic growth.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng stock index jumped 1.8 percent while Thailand rose 1.3 percent and Singapore gained 0.7 percent. China’s Shanghai index fell 0.3 percent and Malaysia, Australia, …. Original source  : Asian stock markets mostly rise on hopes low interest rates will boost economic growth.

Pressure on Greek finances intensifies as borrowing costs spike for 3rd consecutive day

Greek borrowing costs hit new record high
ATHENS, Greece – Greece’s borrowing costs have spiked higher for a third day, intensifying the country’s debt crisis and suggesting a eurozone rescue program is providing little support.

The interest rate gap, or spread, between Greek 10-year government bonds and the German equivalent, considered a benchmark of stability, spiraled to …. Original article  : Pressure on Greek finances intensifies as borrowing costs spike for 3rd consecutive day.

Air India in 190 million dollars deal for SITA’s horizon passenger services system

NEW DELHI – The National Aviation Company of India (NACIL) today announced that SITA, the aviation IT specialist, has been selected to provide its hosted Horizon Passenger Services System (PSS) to Air India on a turnkey basis following a global competitive tendering process. The deal with the 13.5 million … Original article on : Air India in 190 million dollars deal for SITA’s horizon passenger services system.

Lawmakers want State Department to rethink Cuba aid program’s shift to private contractors

US funding of Cuba democracy work draws scrutiny
MIAMI – During the waning months of 2008, the Bush administration quietly pushed through two major contracts to international development companies in an effort to spend a record $45 million to support regime change in Cuba.
It was the first time Cuba funds went to private contractors, … Read more »»».

European Central Bank set to keep rates on hold as recovery from recession proves paltry

European Central Bank set to keep rates unchanged

LONDON – The European Central Bank is set to indicate Thursday that borrowing costs will remain low for much, if not all, of this year as the recovery from recession in the 16 countries that use the euro currency remains fragile.
In the press conference following the widely expected [..] Read the original article: here.

Marks & Spencer sales up 5 percent in 13 weeks to March 27, better than forecast

Marks & Spencer Q4 sales rise 5 pct
LONDON – British food and clothing retailer Marks & Spencer Group PLC said Thursday that sales in its fourth quarter were up 5 percent, better than forecast, led by a 10 percent jump in non-food sales in its home market.

The figures cover the 13 weeks to March 27 … Original source on Gaea Times at : Marks & Spencer sales up 5 percent in 13 weeks to March 27, better than forecast.

Executive at Toyota urged automaker to ‘come clean’ about problems with its gas pedals

Toyota exec urged automaker to ‘come clean’

WASHINGTON – In the days leading up to its massive recall in January, Toyota executives debated when they should inform the public about safety problems with accelerator pedals, prompting one executive to urge the company to “come clean,” according to documents obtained by The Associated Press.
Irv Miller, Toyota’s then-group …. Source  : Executive at Toyota urged automaker to ‘come clean’ about problems with its gas pedals.

British Airways and Iberia sign merger deal to create one of world’s biggest airline groups

BA and Iberia sign merger deal
LONDON – British Airways PLC and Spain’s Iberia SA signed a merger agreement on Thursday, moving a step closer to completing a long-awaited deal to create Europe’s third largest airline and secure the two loss-making carriers’ future.

The companies plan to finalize the tie-up, forming a carrier with a market value …. Original article  : British Airways and Iberia sign merger deal to create one of world’s biggest airline groups.

BEE launches national awareness programme on standards and labeling for air conditioners

MUMBAI – Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory body under the Union Ministry of Power, has launched a national education programme on star labeling for air conditioners.

BEE, with support from Emerson Climate Technologies and International Copper Association, will conduct a comprehensive education programme across India aimed at the sales channels and end users to … Read more : BEE launches national awareness programme on standards and labeling for air conditioners.

H&M 1st quarter profit rises 45 percent on higher sales, store expansion

H&M Q1 profit rises 45 pct on store expansion

STOCKHOLM – Swedish fashion chain Hennes & Mauritz AB on Thursday said profits rose 45 percent in first quarter, helped by higher sales and an increased number of stores.
Europe’s No. 2 fashion retailer said net profit in the three months to Feb. 28, its fiscal first quarter, … Read more »».

Peabody Energy complains to Australian regulator about Macarthur Coal handling of takeover bid

Peabody Energy complains about Macarthur Coal

SYDNEY – U.S.-based Peabody Energy has filed a formal complaint with Australian regulators over Macarthur Coal Ltd.’s handling of a $3.3 billion takeover offer that Macarthur rejected this week.
Peabody complained to the Takeovers Panel that Macarthur, a major exporter of pulverized coal used by steelmakers, failed to provide shareholders with …. Original source  : Peabody Energy complains to Australian regulator about Macarthur Coal handling of takeover bid.

Oil hovers below $86 in Asia as tepid US crude demand stalls 2-month rally

Oil hovers below $86 as 2-month rally stalls

SINGAPORE – Oil prices hovered below $86 a barrel Thursday in Asia after the U.S. reported rising crude inventory levels, suggesting demand remains muted.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was down 9 cents to $85.79 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York … Read more : Oil hovers below $86 in Asia as tepid US crude demand stalls 2-month rally.

Rubin, Prince to be pressed by inquiry panel on Citigroup’s role in mortgage debt meltdown

Ex-Citi executives face questions on mortgages

WASHINGTON – Two former top executives of Citigroup Inc. are expected to be pressed by a special panel about the banking titan’s role in spreading high-risk mortgage debt through the financial system.
Robert Rubin, a former U.S. Treasury secretary who was a senior adviser and chairman of Citigroup during the mortgage … Read more »»».

United and US Airways in merger talks, picking up where they left off in 2008

United, US Airways in merger talks
MINNEAPOLIS – The CEOs of United Airlines and US Airways have both been up front about their desire to merge with another airline. Now it appears they’re talking to each other.

The two are in talks about a combination that would create the nation’s second-biggest airline, a person with knowledge of … Read more >>>.

Today in History

Today in History
Today is Thursday, April 8, the 98th day of 2010. There are 267 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History:
On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves hit his 715th career home run in a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, breaking Babe Ruth’s record.
On this date:
In 1513, explorer Juan …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Protesters prepare for mass rally, defy state of emergency decree in Bangkok

Protesters defy state of emergency in Bangkok

BANGKOK – Defiant anti-government demonstrators dared Thailand’s government Thursday to break up their escalating protests, vowing to stage a mass rally in the capital despite a state of emergency that empowers the military to move against large gatherings.
The country’s beleaguered prime minister declared the emergency Wednesday night after protesters … Original source on Gaea Times at : Protesters prepare for mass rally, defy state of emergency decree in Bangkok.

Money Market Operations as on April 07, 2010

…. Read the original article  : here.

Asian markets fall, led by Japan, as investors look for catalyst to extend year-long surge

Asian stocks drop as investors eye global recovery

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets slumped Thursday as investors mulled whether the global economic recovery is strong enough to justify extending a year-long surge in equities.
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 stock average fell 124.63 points, or 1.1 percent, to 11,168.20 while Indonesia dropped 1.4 percent, Malaysia slid 0.9 percent …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Asian markets fall, led by Japan, as investors look for catalyst to extend year-long surge.

US judge seizes $105 million from Argentina, saying central bank lacks independence

US judge seizes $105 million in Argentine funds

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Argentina quickly said it would file a court appeal after a U.S. federal judge ruled Wednesday that bondholders can seize $105 million in Argentine central bank deposits held in the United States.
A bank spokesman told The Associated Press that Argentina was optimistic because similar …. Source article  : US judge seizes $105 million from Argentina, saying central bank lacks independence.

US court won’t stop April 27 auction of Philly newspapers, but fast-tracks appeal on bid rules

No delay of April 27 auction for Philly newspapers

PHILADELPHIA – Creditors hoping to take over Philadelphia’s two largest newspapers lost a motion Wednesday to delay a scheduled bankruptcy auction this month, but a U.S. appeals court agreed to expedite their request to reconsider a crucial bid issue.
Secured creditors want the full 3rd U.S. Circuit Court …. Read the original article  : US court won’t stop April 27 auction of Philly newspapers, but fast-tracks appeal on bid rules.

Monsanto, Netflix, Massey Energy, Family Dollar Stores among big market movers Wednesday

Monsanto, Netflix, Massey Energy are big movers

NEW YORK – Stocks that moved substantially or traded heavily Wednesday on the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Stock Market:
NYSE:
Monsanto Co., down $1.44 at $68.09
Sliding prices for the seed maker’s popular herbicide hurt profit, and cutting seed prices will hurt its income for the next two years.
CKE Restaurants … Original source on Gaea Times at : Monsanto, Netflix, Massey Energy, Family Dollar Stores among big market movers Wednesday.

Oil rises above $87 in Asia as investors eye stronger US economy, possible yuan revaluation

Oil up above $87 on signs of stronger US economy

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $86 a barrel Friday in Asia after robust U.S. retail sales in March pointed to growing consumer demand in the world’s biggest energy market.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 71 cents to $86.10 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oil rises above $87 in Asia as investors eye stronger US economy, possible yuan revaluation.

German exports rebound in February, increase by 5.1 percent on month

German exports rebound in February
BERLIN – Official figures show that German exports rebounded in February – increasing by 5.1 percent on the month after declining in January.

The Federal Statistical Office also said Friday that exports were up a strong 9.6 percent on the year in February.
Exports traditionally power the German economy. The country is the … Original article on : German exports rebound in February, increase by 5.1 percent on month.

As the head of government, Obama is forced to remind voters that government isn’t all bad

Obama reminding voters government not all bad
WASHINGTON – As a candidate, Barack Obama pledged to “make government cool again.” After a year that gave birth to the anti-government tea party movement, the president can hardly claim to have succeeded.
Now, Obama appears to be embracing a humbler goal: making the case that …. Source article  : As the head of government, Obama is forced to remind voters that government isn’t all bad.

ASEAN urges Myanmar to ensure its elections later this year ‘inclusive,’ free and fair

SE Asian leaders urges credible Myanmar elections

HANOI, Vietnam – Southeast Asian leaders urged Myanmar’s isolated military regime Friday to hold “inclusive” elections amid controversy over planned polls the opposition has vowed to boycott and denounced as designed to extend the junta’s rule.
The 16th annual summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations wrapped up Friday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ASEAN urges Myanmar to ensure its elections later this year ‘inclusive,’ free and fair.

Alaska issues 1st commercial cheese-making rules in response to growth in mom-and-pop dairies

Goat farms spur growth in Alaskan cheese making

JUNEAU, Alaska – When Jennifer Ansley saw goats for the first time at a state fair, her heart nearly skipped a bleat.
“Oh, that’s what I want,” she told her husband. “I’m going to learn to make cheese. And I did.”
A decade later, Ansley is among a growing number …. Source  : Alaska issues 1st commercial cheese-making rules in response to growth in mom-and-pop dairies.

ASEAN chair urges Myanmar to ensure its elections later this year are free and fair

SE Asian leaders urge open elections in Myanmar

HANOI, Vietnam – Southeast Asian leaders urged Myanmar’s isolated military government to hold free and fair elections later this year and pledged Friday to enhance economic cooperation among themselves as they ended a regional summit.
“The elections should be free and democratic with the participation of all parties,” said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ASEAN chair urges Myanmar to ensure its elections later this year are free and fair.

Jones Soda’s New President, CEO is Meissner

New York (GaeaTimes.com) Jones Soda has named its new President, CEO this Wednesday. Joth Ricci has left the company to pursue other opportunities and beverage industry veteran William R. Meissner is chosen as the new President and CEO.

Meissner was president of privately held Talking Rain beverages and was the chief marketing officer for Fuze [..] Read the original article: here.

Asian markets mostly higher as investors look to next week’s first quarter GDP numbers

Asian markets mostly higher as traders eye 1Q GDP

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets were mostly higher Friday ahead of the region’s first peek next week at first quarter economic growth numbers.
Hong Kong’s benchmark Hang Seng index led gainers, advancing 1.6 percent while India rose 1.4 percent, China increased 0.9 percent, Malaysia inched up 0.4 percent, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Asian markets mostly higher as investors look to next week’s first quarter GDP numbers.

Oil rises to near $86 in Asia as investors eye stronger US economy, possible yuan revaluation

Oil rises near $86 on signs of stronger US economy

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose to near $86 a barrel Friday in Asia after robust U.S. retail sales in March pointed to growing consumer demand in the world’s biggest energy market.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 32 cents to $85.71 a barrel at midday Singapore … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oil rises to near $86 in Asia as investors eye stronger US economy, possible yuan revaluation.

Asian markets mixed as investors look to next week’s first quarter GDP numbers

Asian markets mixed as investors eye 1Q GDP data

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets were mixed Friday ahead of the region’s first peek next week at first quarter economic growth numbers.
South Korea’s Kospi index led decliners, slipping 1.3 percent to 1,711.37 while Hong Kong rose 0.5 percent and Malaysia gained 0.2 percent.
Japan, China, Australia, Singapore and …. Original source  : Asian markets mixed as investors look to next week’s first quarter GDP numbers.

Former execs, regulators to face questions about Fannie Mae’s role in housing bust

Ex-Fannie Mae executives to face special panel

WASHINGTON – Two former top executives of Fannie Mae will face questions Friday about the government-created mortgage titan’s role in fomenting the housing boom and its eventual bust.
Daniel Mudd, Fannie Mae’s chief executive during the housing boom, and Robert Levin, the company’s former chief business officer, are due to …. Source  : Former execs, regulators to face questions about Fannie Mae’s role in housing bust.

Officials: CO deputy on leave after shocking high school students with stun gun at career fair

Officials: Colo. deputy used stun gun on students

LEADVILLE, Colo. – A sheriff’s deputy in Colorado has been placed on unpaid administrative leave after he used a stun gun to shock 30 students at a high school career fair.
Officials with Lake County High School, in the small central Colorado town of Leadville, say the students asked …. Read the original article  : Officials: CO deputy on leave after shocking high school students with stun gun at career fair.

Union Pacific: Court fight over $61M in fines for drugs on trains continues after talks fail

Talks break down over fines for drugs on trains

OMAHA, Neb. – The long-running dispute between Union Pacific Corp. and the federal government about restricting drug smuggling on trains crossing from Mexico returned to court Thursday after the railroad said settlement talks over the $61.2 million in fines fell apart.
The railroad asked a federal judge in …. Source  : Union Pacific: Court fight over $61M in fines for drugs on trains continues after talks fail.

Money Market Operations as on April 08, 2010

… Read more »».

Most Asian markets open higher in early trading after gains on Wall Street

Most Asian markets open higher in early trading

TOKYO – Most Asian stock markets edged up in early trading Friday, led by overnight gains on Wall Street as strong U.S. retail sales data boosted confidence in a recovery in the world’s biggest economy.
Australia’s benchmark rose 0.1 percent, as did the Shanghai Composite index. Markets in Taiwan, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bank of Korea keeps key rate at record low 2 percent under new governor

Bank of Korea keeps key rate at 2 percent
SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea’s central bank left its key interest rate at a record low Friday as its new governor begins weighing when to end an 18-month-old easy money regime implemented to help fight the global financial crisis.
The Bank of Korea announced that …. Original source  : Bank of Korea keeps key rate at record low 2 percent under new governor.

NKorea’s rubber-stamp parliament convenes amid questions about future leadership, economy

NKorea’s parliament likely to focus on economy

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea’s rubber-stamp parliament convenes an annual session Friday expected to show solidarity and perhaps indications of the impoverished and reclusive nation’s future leadership and economy.
The Supreme People’s Assembly meets one day a year in Pyongyang to approve bills vetted by the ruling Workers’ Party. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NKorea’s rubber-stamp parliament convenes amid questions about future leadership, economy.

Tribune says deal with creditors clears way for filing Chapter 11 plan

Tribune says deal clears way for Ch. 11 plan

NEW YORK – Tribune Co. said Thursday it has struck an agreement to head off some legal claims against the company and its lenders stemming from real estate mogul Sam Zell’s 2007 deal to take Tribune private.
The company said the agreement clears the way for it to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tribune says deal with creditors clears way for filing Chapter 11 plan.

Itar-Tass: Anatoly Dobrynin, Soviet diplomat at center of Cuban missile crisis, dead at 90

Anatoly Dobrynin, key Soviet diplomat, dead at 90
MOSCOW – Anatoly Dobrynin, a Soviet diplomat who represented Moscow during the Cuban missile crisis and later in key superpower negotiations to curb the growth of nuclear arsenals, the Kremlin says. He was 90.
His death came the same week …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Itar-Tass: Anatoly Dobrynin, Soviet diplomat at center of Cuban missile crisis, dead at 90.

Bernanke: Lessons learned from 1930s allowed policymakers to avert second Great Depression

Fed boss: Lessons from ’30s averted worse crisis

WASHINGTON – Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke says forceful action by policymakers in the United States and abroad during the financial crisis allowed the global economy to dodge a second Great Depression.
Bernanke, a scholar of the Great Depression, says policymakers learned from the mistakes of their predecessors in … Read : Bernanke: Lessons learned from 1930s allowed policymakers to avert second Great Depression.

Cowboys haters, rejoice: Texas Stadium about to be imploded by more than 1 ton of dynamite

After 39 years, Texas Stadium ready for implosion

IRVING, Texas – The old stadium for America’s team is about to become a pile of dust and rubble.
With the push of a button at 7 a.m. Sunday, more than a ton of dynamite will blow Texas Stadium into pieces.
In about one minute, down will go the building …. Read the original article  : here.

In Britain’s election, could the often overlooked Liberal Democrats emerge the kingmaker?

UK’s Liberal Dems could seal Brown’s fate
LONDON – Britain’s uncertain national election may deliver a surprising twist: The country’s perennial third-placed party, the hitherto toothless Liberal Democrats, could play kingmaker.

For the first time in nearly 40 years, polls suggest neither the governing Labour Party nor the main opposition Conservatives may win an outright parliamentary majority … Read more »».

Meinhardt Raabe, actor who played Munchkin coroner in ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ dies at 94 in Fla.

Raabe, ‘Wizard of Oz’ Munchkin actor, dies at 94

Meinhardt Raabe, who played the Munchkin coroner in “The Wizard of Oz” and proclaimed in the movie that the Wicked Witch of the East was “really most sincerely dead,” has died. He was 94.
His caregiver, Cindy Bosnyak, said Raabe – pronounced RAH’-bee – died Friday morning at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Meinhardt Raabe, actor who played Munchkin coroner in ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ dies at 94 in Fla..

China reports $7.24 billion trade deficit in March as imports surge, first in almost 6 years

China’s $7.24B March trade deficit 1st in 6 years
SHANGHAI – China reported its first monthly trade deficit in nearly six years in March, a shift expected to be short-lived and one that may give Beijing only a slight respite from pressure to revalue its currency.
The $7.24 billion …. Source  : China reports $7.24 billion trade deficit in March as imports surge, first in almost 6 years.

State media: China had $7.24 billion trade deficit in March, first in almost 6 years

Report: China had $7.24B trade deficit in March

SHANGHAI – China posted a $7.24 billion trade deficit in March, its first in almost six years, the official Xinhua News Agency reported Saturday, citing customs figures. Officials say the trend will be short-lived.
The March deficit was China’s first since it recorded a $2.26 billion deficit in April … Read more : State media: China had $7.24 billion trade deficit in March, first in almost 6 years.

Regulators shut down South Carolina bank, marking 42nd US bank failure this year

42nd US bank failure in ‘10 is South Carolina bank

WASHINGTON – Regulators on Friday shut down a bank in South Carolina, marking 42 bank failures in the U.S. so far this year amid mounting loan defaults, especially in commercial real estate.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over Beach First National Bank, based in Myrtle Beach, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Regulators shut down South Carolina bank, marking 42nd US bank failure this year.

Caterpillar CEO takes 54 percent cut in compensation as equipment maker weathers the recession

Caterpillar CEO compensation falls 54 percent

OMAHA, Neb. – Last year, Caterpillar Inc. gave Chairman and CEO Jim Owens less than half the $14.6 million compensation he received in 2008 as the world’s biggest maker of mining and construction equipment endured the recession and eliminated thousands of jobs.
An Associated Press analysis of a Securities and Exchange … Read : Caterpillar CEO takes 54 percent cut in compensation as equipment maker weathers the recession.

Ice Edge, Reinsdorf group both sign memorandum of understanding on new Coyotes lease

Ice Edge, Reinsdorf group sign Coyotes memornadums

PHOENIX – Two groups seeking to buy the Phoenix Coyotes have signed memorandums of understanding on a revised lease with the city of Glendale, a significant step toward purchase of the financially troubled NHL franchise.
The documents were signed by Chicago sports mogul Jerry Reinsdorf and by Anthony LeBlanc, head …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ex-Hartford CEO Ayer awarded compensation of $4.8 million through first 10 months of 2009

Ex-Hartford CEO received ‘09 compensation of $4.8M

BOSTON – Ramani Ayer received compensation valued at nearly $4.8 million in his final 10 months as chairman and CEO of Hartford Financial Services Group Inc., according to an Associated Press analysis of a regulatory filing.
Liam McGee, who took over when Ayer retired at the end of October, received …. Read the original article  : Ex-Hartford CEO Ayer awarded compensation of $4.8 million through first 10 months of 2009.

University of Wisconsin-Madison cuts ties with Nike over treatment of Honduran workers

U. of Wis. cuts ties with Nike over labor concerns

MADISON, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Madison canceled its licensing agreement with Nike Inc. on Friday, becoming the first university to take that step over concerns about the company’s treatment of workers in Honduras.
Chancellor Biddy Martin said Nike hasn’t done enough to help workers at two …. Original article  : University of Wisconsin-Madison cuts ties with Nike over treatment of Honduran workers.

Philly newspaper lenders denied 3rd Circuit review of bid rules at April 27 bankruptcy auction

Philly newspaper lenders denied review of bid rule

PHILADELPHIA – A U.S. appeals court on Friday denied creditors of Philadelphia’s two largest newspapers a rehearing on a key issue that could determine who wins the company at an upcoming bankruptcy auction.
The ruling Friday means the owners of The Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Daily News can almost …. Original source  : Philly newspaper lenders denied 3rd Circuit review of bid rules at April 27 bankruptcy auction.

Product recalls this week include children’s books, furniture, coats, bikes

Recalls this week: books, furniture, coats

Recalled products this week include children’s books with foam bindings that could detach and pose a choking hazard. Also on the list are wood furniture with coatings that could have high levels of lead, and women’s coats that don’t meet flammability standards.
There was another recall of children’s hooded clothing made …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Product recalls this week include children’s books, furniture, coats, bikes.

Southern California court chosen by US judicial panel to consolidate dozens of Toyota lawsuits

Southern California court gets Toyota lawsuits

MIAMI – A federal judge in Southern California was chosen Friday to preside over more than 200 lawsuits filed against Toyota in the aftermath of the automaker’s sudden acceleration problems, which could potentially mushroom into one of the nation’s biggest product liability cases.
A judicial panel consolidated the ever-growing list of … Read more »»».

Forget Dow 11,000. Where’s the trading volume? Even bulls worry that rally could peter out

The Dow’s up but trades are scarce, worrying bulls

NEW YORK – Think Dow 11,000 is a big deal? Think again.
The Dow Jones industrial average briefly hit the milestone Friday for the first time in 18 months before closing at 10,997.
But Wall Street analysts who study key stock index levels say all the attention paid to …. Original article  : Forget Dow 11,000. Where’s the trading volume? Even bulls worry that rally could peter out.

Neb. ends contract when youth services firm files bankruptcy, leaves 3 agencies to serve state

State loses 2nd private youth services contractor

OMAHA, Neb. – Nebraska’s overhaul of its child welfare system has hit a snag with the loss of two of the five private agencies the state hired last fall to coordinate care for roughly 6,300 state wards.
But the state Department of Health and Human Services remains committed to the …. Source  : Neb. ends contract when youth services firm files bankruptcy, leaves 3 agencies to serve state.

Xerox CEO Burns sees 77 pct. pay hike after becoming 1st black woman to head Fortune 500 co.

Xerox CEO Burns’ pay jumps with promotion in 2009

LOS ANGELES – Xerox Corp. CEO Ursula Burns, the first black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company, saw her pay increase 77 percent in 2009 after she was promoted from president and kept cutting costs amid an economic downturn.
Burns’ pay climbed to $9.9 million last year …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Xerox CEO Burns sees 77 pct. pay hike after becoming 1st black woman to head Fortune 500 co..

Tea party claims win over Stupak’s decision not to run again; he says he accomplished top goal

Stupak, linchpin of health bill, calls it quits
MARQUETTE, Mich. – Rep. Bart Stupak insists that tea party activists outraged over his crucial support of health care legislation didn’t run him out of office, but his decision to retire gives conservatives a rallying point …. Original source  : Tea party claims win over Stupak’s decision not to run again; he says he accomplished top goal.

ESPN’s first round coverage of Master’s tournament with Woods’ return seen by 4.94 million

Nielsen: Masters first-day ratings up 47 percent

NEW YORK – Tiger Woods was almost done playing as ESPN began coverage of the Masters’ second round Friday, a day after the network rode interest in his return from a self-imposed hiatus to its highest golf ratings ever.
The Nielsen Co. said 4.94 million people watched ESPN’s opening round … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ESPN’s first round coverage of Master’s tournament with Woods’ return seen by 4.94 million.

TV commentator, author Ben Stein says investors’ biggest mistake was trusting Wall St.

Investors’ biggest mistake was trusting Wall St.

NEW YORK – Good sense has vanished from many areas of American life including how families manage their money, says economist and television commentator Ben Stein.
“You’ve got to correct your spending patterns so that you’re saving every week or every month,” Stein says. “You’ve got to correct your spending [..] Read the original article: here.

Personal Ensign, unbeaten female who surged to great win in 1988 Breeders’ Cup, dies at 26

Eclipse Award winner Personal Ensign dies at 26

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Personal Ensign, who capped a brilliant unbeaten career with a stirring victory in the 1988 Breeders’ Cup Distaff, has died. She was 26.
Personal Ensign appeared to die of natural causes, Claiborne Farm stallion manager Bernie Sams said. Her body was discovered in a field for …. Source  : Personal Ensign, unbeaten female who surged to great win in 1988 Breeders’ Cup, dies at 26.

Lack of money stalls Obama’s jobs agenda; GOP objects, as does leading Senate Democrat

Obama election-year jobs agenda stalls in Congress
WASHINGTON – The election-year jobs agenda promised by President Barack Obama and Democrats has stalled seven months before voters determine control of Congress.
Democrats have no money to pay for the program. That’s because both Republicans and the Democratic chairman of the Senate Budget Committee objected to taking …. Original article  : Lack of money stalls Obama’s jobs agenda; GOP objects, as does leading Senate Democrat.

Mentally ill Holocaust survivors’ suffering lingers on 65 years later

For mentally ill survivors, Holocaust lives on

PARDES HANNA, Israel – Some patients refuse to shower because it reminds them of the gas chambers. Others hoard meat in pillow cases because they fear going hungry.
At the Shaar Menashe Mental Health Center in northern Israel, it’s as though the Holocaust never ended.
As Israel on Sunday night begins … Read more : Mentally ill Holocaust survivors’ suffering lingers on 65 years later.

UK investigating 800,000 organ donor list errors; some transplants may have been improper

UK investigates 800,000 organ donor list errors

LONDON – Britain’s transplant authority said Saturday that it was investigating several hundred thousand errors in its organ donor list stretching back about a decade.
The National Health Service Blood and Transplant organization said a proportion of its 14 million-strong organ donor list has been affected by technical errors since …. Original article  : UK investigating 800,000 organ donor list errors; some transplants may have been improper.

US reinforces softer hand in relations with Afghanistan’s mercurial leader

US seeks to smooth relations with Afghan leader
KABUL – President Hamid Karzai got a VIP briefing at NATO headquarters and the top American diplomat in Kabul went out of his way to smooth U.S.-Afghan relations – signs that Washington is using a softer touch in dealing with the unpredictable Afghan … Read : US reinforces softer hand in relations with Afghanistan’s mercurial leader.

Far-right Hungarian party could make gains, damaging governing party blamed for economy

Far-right party poised to make gains in Hungary
BUDAPEST, Hungary – A far-right party backed by black-clad paramilitary extremists is poised to make dramatic gains Sunday in Hungary’s national elections, mirroring recent advances by anti-immigrant parties across Europe.
Fidesz, the mainstream center-right party led by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is widely pegged to gain …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Far-right Hungarian party could make gains, damaging governing party blamed for economy.

Despite Stupak’s retirement, many voters value effectiveness over small-government ideology

Stupak constituents seek federal aid over ideology

CHEBOYGAN, Mich. – Even as tea party activists gloat over Rep. Bart Stupak’s decision to retire after becoming one of their top targets for defeat, it’s far from certain that his constituents will elect a successor who shares their antipathy to government spending.
Michigan’s northernmost district has a history of … Read : Despite Stupak’s retirement, many voters value effectiveness over small-government ideology.

Potential presidential hopeful Pence says GOP will repeal health law “lock, stock and barrel”

Indiana congressman addresses 2012 “cattle call”
NEW ORLEANS – Indiana Rep. Mike Pence has vowed that House Republicans will repeal President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul law “lock, stock and barrel.”
In a fiery speech before the Southern Republican Leadership Conference, Pence noted that Obama recently dared the GOP to try to repeal the law. … Read more »».

History repeats: $1B transit project in St. Paul’s old black neighborhood stirs bad memories

Rail line stirs bad memories in black neighborhood

ST. PAUL, Minn. – When the Rev. George Davis learned the government was coming to take his family’s home to make room for a shiny new interstate, he told his loved ones he’d defend 304 Rondo Avenue with a shotgun.
But Davis was old, about 80, and his wife …. Original article  : History repeats: $1B transit project in St. Paul’s old black neighborhood stirs bad memories.

Indian Airlines-Air India Merger Criticized

MUMBAI, India, (GaeaTimes.com)-Indian Airlines has been merged with Air India as instructed by the Civil Aviation Ministry. Following the proposal all the union members organized a meeting in Mumbai to discuss the issue which they think will be an absolute spoiler to Indian Airlines.
Sitaram Yechuri who happens to be the Chairman of the Standing Committee …. Original article  : Indian Airlines-Air India Merger Criticized.

SEBI ULIP Ban Announced

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In a move that has taken the finance sector in India by surprise, market regulator SEBI has imposed a ban on issuing fresh Unit-Linked Insurance Plans by 14 life insurance companies operating in India. The private insurance entities like ICICI Prudential Life, Reliance Life Insurance, TATA AIG, HDFC Standard Life, Birla … Original source on Gaea Times at : SEBI ULIP Ban Announced.

Obama urges Americans to take advantage of tax breaks for homebuyers, college students, others

Obama advertises tax breaks ahead of Tax Day
WASHINGTON – Just ahead of Tax Day, President Barack Obama is urging Americans to take advantage of tax credits for first-time homebuyers, college students and others.
Obama used his weekly radio and Internet address Saturday to promote some …. Original article  : Obama urges Americans to take advantage of tax breaks for homebuyers, college students, others.

Ice Edge CEO says memorandum of understanding signed on new Coyotes lease

Ice Edge signs memorandum of understanding

PHOENIX – The head of Ice Edge Holdings says the company has signed a memorandum of understanding on a new lease with the city of Glendale that could pave the way for a purchase of the Phoenix Coyotes.
The city council is to vote on the proposal Tuesday.
Chief executive officer Anthony … Original article on : Ice Edge CEO says memorandum of understanding signed on new Coyotes lease.

Regulators shut down South Carolina bank; makes 42 US bank failures this year

Regulators shut South Carolina bank
WASHINGTON – Regulators on Friday shut down a bank in South Carolina, marking 42 bank failures in the U.S. so far this year amid mounting loan defaults, especially in commercial real estate.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over Beach First National Bank, based in Myrtle Beach, S.C., with $585.1 million in … Read more >>>.

Gov’t tells Toyota it’s considering 2nd civil penalty against the automaker

Gov’t considers 2nd civil penalty against Toyota

WASHINGTON – The government says in a letter to Toyota that it’s considering a second civil penalty against the automaker.
Toyota is already facing a fine of more than $16 million for failing to promptly notify the government about defective gas pedals.
The Transportation Department told Toyota in a letter this … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gov’t tells Toyota it’s considering 2nd civil penalty against the automaker.

ValueClick CEO Tom A. Vadnais steps down, shares fall after hours

ValueClick CEO steps down, shares fall
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. – Web advertising company ValueClick Inc. said its CEO, Tom A. Vadnais, is retiring and resigning effective Friday, to be replaced by James R. Zarley, who’d been serving as executive chairman.

Vadnais, who’d served as CEO since 2007, also stepped down as director, a position he has held … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ValueClick CEO Tom A. Vadnais steps down, shares fall after hours.

Northrop Grumman CEO Sugar received 2009 pay package valued at $17.9 million, down 7 percent

Northrop Grumman CEO got $17.9M in 2009 pay

NEW YORK – The chairman and CEO of defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. received a pay package valued at $17.9 million in 2009, a decline of about 7 percent compared with the previous year, according to a regulatory filing Friday.
The bulk of Ronald Sugar’s compensation came from stock … Read more >>>.

The North Face settles lawsuit with The South Butt, Mo. teen’s company selling parody clothes

North Face, South Butt reach settlement in lawsuit

ST. LOUIS – The North Face Apparel Corp. has settled its lawsuit against The South Butt, a company started by a Missouri teenager that markets parody clothing.
The agreement entered in federal court Friday didn’t disclose terms. An attorney for The South Butt said it was an amicable resolution. … Read more »»».

Final frontier for Vegas ‘Star Trek’ props is warehouse sale, where they’ll boldly go to fans

‘Trek’ fans, want Picard’s chair? It’s for sale

LAS VEGAS – “Star Trek” lovers looking for Enterprise chairs, Starfleet uniforms or a model Klingon Bird of Prey can seek out new life for the dismantled pieces of a closed Las Vegas attraction based on the famous franchise.
Auctioneer Propworx Inc. plans to sell roughly 1,000 items large … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Final frontier for Vegas ‘Star Trek’ props is warehouse sale, where they’ll boldly go to fans.

Alcoa, Constellation Brands, Williams-Sonoma, Ambac Financial among big market movers Friday

Alcoa, Constellation Brands are big movers

NEW YORK – Stocks that moved substantially or traded heavily Friday on the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Stock Market:
NYSE:
Alcoa Inc., down 48 cents at $14.39
A JPMorgan analyst downgraded the aluminum producer, saying lower metal prices will hinder the company despite recent cost reductions.
BJ’s Wholesale Club Inc., up $1.44 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Analysts say Wal-Mart Stores price cuts hard to separate from retailer’s usual promotions

Summary Box: Wal-Mart’s price-cutting
PRICE CUTS: Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is trumpeting what it calls a large round of price-cutting on all of its products, including food. The world’s largest retailer says it will cut prices on 10,000 items in stages.

THE SKEPTICS: Analysts question whether the changes differ meaningfully from the retailer’s usual promotions. They also note … Original source on Gaea Times at : Analysts say Wal-Mart Stores price cuts hard to separate from retailer’s usual promotions.