Britain’s ousted ex-chief Gordon Brown to publish insider account of global financial crisis

UK’s ousted Brown writing book on financial crisis

LONDON – Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is publishing an insider account of the global financial crisis, his first book since being ousted from office.
Brown, who lost a national election in May after almost three years as U.K. chief, will set out the measures the legislator believes … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Britain’s ousted ex-chief Gordon Brown to publish insider account of global financial crisis.

Roto-Rooter Launches Coupons for Plumbing Services

LOS ANGELES (Gaeatimes.com) — Are you worried about your irregular plumbing services at your home? Then Roto-Rooter is the solution. Roto-Rooter is a company wholly dedicated for plumbing services and cleaning sewers in drainage lines.
Roto-Rooter provides the following services:

Complete plumbing services
24 hours emergency services
Available 7days a week

Recently, Roto-Rooter has launched a coupon service at your … Original source on Gaea Times at : Roto-Rooter Launches Coupons for Plumbing Services.

Sensex trades lower, Asian markets positive

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities was trading lower Monday afternoon despite positive Asian markets.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,056.24 points, was ruling at 18,071.5 points, 59.48 points or 0.33 percent down from its previous close at 18,130.98 points.
At …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pearson 1st half profit more than trebles to 92 million pounds ($142 million)

Pearson H1 profit more than trebles
LONDON – Pearson PLC said Monday that first half profit more than trebled to 92 million pounds ($142 million), beating market forecasts and boosting the full year outlook, as revenue rose at the Financial Times, Penguin Books and educational publications.

The net profit rose from 28 million pounds in the first … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pearson 1st half profit more than trebles to 92 million pounds ($142 million).

Goa mulling setting up a maritime board

PANAJI – The Goa government is mulling to set up a state maritime board to attract investment, easing the process of privatization of ports or designated areas within ports.

“Maritime boards can attract private capital and private participation easily. The board will also have the power to raise funds as well as loans on its own … Read more : Goa mulling setting up a maritime board.

Obama’s message to voters: Stick with Democrats, otherwise things could get worse under GOP

Obama’s message to voters: Things could be worse
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama, who rocketed to the White House promising “change you can believe in,” is now telling voters they shouldn’t change a thing.
His message for the fall elections, which are looking ominous for his Democrats, is that Republicans caused the nation’s [..] Read the original article: here.

BP says ‘no final decision’ has been made on replacing Tony Hayward as chief executive

BP says ‘no final decision’ on replacing Hayward
LONDON – BP PLC said Monday that “no final decision” has been made about management changes, which reportedly include the departure of Tony Hayward as chief executive in an effort to mend the company’s image after the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.
The oil company said its … Original source on Gaea Times at : BP says ‘no final decision’ has been made on replacing Tony Hayward as chief executive.

In election-year twist, Murray defends steering dollars to state amid GOP criticism

GOP puts Murray on defensive for federal projects
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Delivering dollars for Washington state is a point of pride for Democratic Sen. Patty Murray, whose efforts have helped her comfortably win re-election twice. Republicans insist that this November, it will be her downfall.
The GOP is looking to tap into voter angst over …. Source  : In election-year twist, Murray defends steering dollars to state amid GOP criticism.

Heavy rains hit life in Chhattisgarh, six killed

RAIPUR – At least six people have been killed in incessant rains in Chhattisgarh where road and rail services continue to be hit, officials said Monday.

The state has been witnessing heavy rains since Saturday because of low pressure area over Orissa.
Several key roads, including National Highway 221, have been blocked in Dantewada district …. Read the original article  : Heavy rains hit life in Chhattisgarh, six killed.

Rs.6.6 lakh corruption in scheme for Bihar moms

PATNA – A woman, as everyone knows, usually gives birth to a baby after nine months of pregnancy, but in Bihar 298 women claim to have delivered two to five children in a span of 60 days – at least that’s what records of incentives amount given to new mothers under a government scheme show.

A … Original article on : Rs.6.6 lakh corruption in scheme for Bihar moms.

Oil rises above $79 in Asia as strong US corporate earnings boost investor optimism

Oil rises above $79 as stocks extend rally

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $79 a barrel Monday in Asia as regional stock markets extended a rally from last week amid improving investor optimism.
Benchmark crude for September delivery was up 30 cents at $79.28 a barrel at midday Singapore time in electronic trading on the New …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oil rises above $79 in Asia as strong US corporate earnings boost investor optimism.

Money Market Operations as on July 23, 2010

…. Read the original article  : Money Market Operations as on July 23, 2010.

Asian stocks rise on better-than-expected results of Europe’s bank ’stress tests’

Asian stocks up on results of Europe’s bank tests

BANGKOK – Asian stock markets posted moderate gains Monday following reassuring news that most European banks passed much-anticipated “stress tests,” suggesting the continent’s banking system is strong enough to weather a massive debt crisis.
Oil prices hovered above $79 a barrel as regional stock markets extended a rally …. Source article  : Asian stocks rise on better-than-expected results of Europe’s bank ’stress tests’.

Protesting Indians block workers at construction site of hydroelectric plant in Amazon

Brazil Indians block workers at hydroelectric site

SAO PAULO – About 300 Amazon Indians prevented workers from entering or leaving the construction site of a hydroelectric plant that protesters say is on an ancient burial ground, Brazil’s official news agency said Sunday.
Indians from eight tribes taking part in the protest are demanding compensation for losses caused …. Original source  : Protesting Indians block workers at construction site of hydroelectric plant in Amazon.

Disgraced cyclist Landis leaves Oregon event before finishing the final stage

Landis quietly leaves Oregon cycling event

BEND, Ore. – While Lance Armstrong’s legacy was celebrated in his final Tour de France, disgraced former winner Floyd Landis quietly ducked out of a race in central Oregon.
Landis was stripped of his 2006 Tour de France title for doping and admitted this spring to using drugs to gain a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Disgraced cyclist Landis leaves Oregon event before finishing the final stage.

Japan’s June exports climb 27.7 percent from year earlier, seventh month of increases

Japan’s exports rise for seventh straight month

TOKYO – Japan’s exports rose for the seventh straight month in June, driven by machinery and steel products, indicating that overseas demand continues to underpin recovery in the world’s No. 2 economy even amid a stronger yen.
Exports climbed 27.7 percent from a year earlier to 5.87 trillion yen ($67.2 … Read more >>.

SKorea’s 2nd-quarter economic growth slows to 1.5 percent on construction, government spending

SKorea’s economy grows 1.5 percent in 2nd quarter

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea’s economic growth slowed in the second quarter of 2010 despite gains in exports, manufacturing and capital outlays as construction contracted and government spending and services weakened.
Gross domestic product expanded 1.5 percent in the three months ended June 30, compared with the first …. Original source  : SKorea’s 2nd-quarter economic growth slows to 1.5 percent on construction, government spending.

An timeline of events spanning Tony Hayward’s career with BP

A look at Tony Hayward’s tenure with BP
Here’s a look at Tony Hayward’s tenure with BP:
1982: Hayward joins the company as a rig geologist in the North Sea.
March 23, 2005: An explosion at a BP refinery in Texas City kills 15 people and injures 170.
March 2006: More than 200,000 gallons of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : An timeline of events spanning Tony Hayward’s career with BP.

Conference USA returns to traditional media day for league still intact after realignment

C-USA back to personal touch after going to video

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Conference USA is back to using the personal touch.
A year after switching to video as a cost-saving move for the league’s annual football media day, 11 of Conference USA’s 12 coaches gathered Sunday in Memphis to preview the upcoming season. All 12 remain in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Conference USA returns to traditional media day for league still intact after realignment.

South Korea’s economic growth slows to 1.5 percent in second quarter as services weakened

SKorea’s economic growth slows in 2nd quarter

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea’s central bank says economic growth slowed in the second quarter of 2010 despite gains in exports, manufacturing and capital outlays as construction and services weakened.
The Bank of Korea said Monday that gross domestic product expanded 1.5 percent in the three months ended June …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : South Korea’s economic growth slows to 1.5 percent in second quarter as services weakened.

Taiwan to help Russia build world’s largest aquarium

TAIPEI – A Taiwan company has won a contract to design the world’s largest aquarium in Russia’s Vladivostok city, the company said Tuesday.

The Huangs Green Country Industrial Co Ltd won the bid on the project that is part of Vladivostok’s preparation for hosting the 2012 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, it said.
“The indoor area …. Original source  : Taiwan to help Russia build world’s largest aquarium.

DuPont says 2nd quarter profit almost tripled as sales recover; raises 2010 outlook

DuPont 2Q profit climbs as sales jump, costs fall

NEW YORK – Chemical maker DuPont Co. says its profit nearly tripled in the second quarter as sales surged in most of its businesses, and costs decreased.
DuPont says its profit rose to $1.16 billion, or $1.26 per share. That’s up from $417 million, or 46 cents per …. Original source  : DuPont says 2nd quarter profit almost tripled as sales recover; raises 2010 outlook.

Nathpa Jhakri plant shut, disrupts power supply in North

SHIMLA – The country’s largest hydropower plant in Himachal Pradesh remained shut for the second day Tuesday, disrupting power supply to northern states, including Delhi.

“The 1,500-MW hydropower plant was temporarily closed yesterday (Monday) as the silt content in the river (on which the project is located) suddenly rose more than the permissible limit. The generation … Read : Nathpa Jhakri plant shut, disrupts power supply in North.

First Quarter Review of Monetary Policy 2010-11: Press Statement by Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor

"This morning, the Reserve Bank released the First Quarter Review of Monetary Policy for 2010-11 at a meeting of the chief executives of major banks. The important decisions contained in the review were to raise the repo rate from 5.5 per cent to 5.75 per cent and the reverse … Read : First Quarter Review of Monetary Policy 2010-11: Press Statement by Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor.

RBI raises repo rate by 25 bps, reverse repo by 50 bps

MUMBAI – The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Tuesday raised short term lending or repo rate by 0.25 percentage points. It will be now 5.75 per cent.

The short-term borrowing or reverse repo rate has been hiked by 0.50 percentage point to 4.50 per cent.

The cash reserve ratio or CRR and bank rate …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : RBI raises repo rate by 25 bps, reverse repo by 50 bps.

India, UAE discuss bilateral trade

ABU DHABI – India’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) M.K. Lokesh and the director general of UAE’s ministry of foreign trade, Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, met here to discuss issues related to bilateral trade.

The Indian envoy was told Monday that the UAE is keen to bolster its trade cooperation with India, as it …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Germany’s Daimler reports 2nd-quarter profit of nearly $1.7 billion, raises full-year outlook

Daimler raises earnings outlook after Q2 profit

BERLIN – Car maker Daimler AG say it made a second-quarter profit of euro1.3 billion (nearly $1.7 billion) and has raised its full-year outlook substantially.
The April-June earnings figure contrasted with a loss of nearly euro1.1 billion a year earlier.
Daimler said Tuesday it is now targeting full-year earnings before interest …. Original source  : Germany’s Daimler reports 2nd-quarter profit of nearly $1.7 billion, raises full-year outlook.

Government rules out rolling back fuel price hike

NEW DELHI – The government Tuesday ruled out rolling back the hike in fuel prices, junking the demand for such a measure by the opposition which disrupted proceedings in both houses of parliament.

“Why should the government pay Rs.5,000 crore per quarter for the petrol being used in anyone’s car?” Petroleum Minister Murli Deora asked … Read : Government rules out rolling back fuel price hike.

European markets higher on Deutsche Bank earns, German data, while euro tests $1.30 once again

Upbeat German news lifts European markets
LONDON – European stock markets mostly rose Tuesday as investors warmed to another batch of better than expected earnings and economic data from Germany, while the euro pushed briefly above the $1.30 mark once again.

In Europe, the FTSE 100 index of leading British shares was up 40.25 points, or 0.8 … Read more : European markets higher on Deutsche Bank earns, German data, while euro tests $1.30 once again.

Ride The Stock Market with Anirudh Sethi

BARODA,INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Anirudh Sethi, an experienced stock broker has adopted a novel approach to educate people about trading psychology. His series of lectures on the stock market are quite popular on You Tube. The videos start from the basic level of stock broking to thorough analysis of the market as it happens.
An avid follower … Original article on : Ride The Stock Market with Anirudh Sethi.

Greenpeace shuts down 50 BP petrol stations

LONDON – Greenpeace activists protesting British Petroleum’s (BP) “reckless” oil pursuit, shut down 50 petrol filling stations in central London Tuesday morning.

The environmentalists claimed to have stopped the fuel supply by flipping safety switches on the forecourts and then removing them to prevent the petrol stations from reopening. They also hoisted signs saying: “Closed. …. Read the original article  : Greenpeace shuts down 50 BP petrol stations.

Bountiful Baskets Offers Fresh Fruits & Vegetables at Cheap Price

MESA (GaeaTimes.com) – Bountiful Baskets is a non-profit oraganisation which aims to deliver baskets of fruits and vegetables to people across seven countries at a very low price.
Bountiful Baskets was founded by two friends, Sally Stevens and Tanya Jolly in Mesa. It sells one basket of fresh fruits and another basket of fresh vegetables … Read more »».

Google cuts ties with Chinese advertisers

BEIJING – Google Inc has cut commercial ties with two of its Chinese advertising agents, raising concerns that the internet giant’s recent standoff with the government may scare away more domestic advertisers.

The search engine ended partnerships Monday with the Universal Internet Media and the Xi’an Weihua Network, major advertising agents for Google in east and …. Read the original article  : Google cuts ties with Chinese advertisers.

RBI will now review monetary policy mid-quarter

MUMBAI – The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Tuesday said it would update the monetary policy about 45 days after the quarterly review to respond faster to changing domestic and international economic scenarios.

The apex bank said such formal mid-cycle announcements would take out the surprise element emanating from an off-cycle rate decision as was the …. Original source  : RBI will now review monetary policy mid-quarter.

BP announces Hayward’s departure, reports $17 mn quarterly loss

LONDON – Oil giant BP Tuesday announced a record quarterly loss of $17.1 billion as a direct result of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill and said its embattled chief executive, Tony Hayward, would be leaving the company on Oct 1.

The 53-year-old’s departure follows intense criticism of his handling of the catastrophic spill caused by … Read more : BP announces Hayward’s departure, reports $17 mn quarterly loss.

UBS posts Q2 profit of $1.9 billion, expects all tax matters with US to be resolved by October

UBS posts second-quarter profit of $1.9 billion

GENEVA – Swiss bank UBS AG offered evidence of its recovery Tuesday with stronger-than-expected second-quarter profits of 2 billion Swiss francs ($1.9 billion), and said it should resolve all tax matters with the U.S. government by October.
The Zurich bank’s results compared with a 1.4 billion-franc loss in the second …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Delhi’s Terminal 3 set for commercial operations from Wednesday

NEW DELHI – The stage is set for commercial fight operations at India’s Swankiest and largest terminal at the Indira Gandhi International airport here, with state-run Air India’s AI-102 from New York scheduled to land at 4.45 p.m. Wednesday.

Jet Airways will have the distinction of being the first private carrier to bring its passengers through … Read more >>.

DMRC Planning For New Rakes

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Those who are tired of the crowd in the metro of Delhi have reasons to rejoice. The DMRC or Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has placed an order for as many as 40 coaches. The new coaches will be used to increase the capacity of the existing trains. The 4 …. Original article  : DMRC Planning For New Rakes.

Danone raises 2010 sales target after posting 10 percent rise in 1st half earnings

Danone posts 10 pct gain in 1st half net profit

PARIS – Danone SA said Tuesday sales of its yogurts, bottled water and baby foods would grow faster than expected this year as strong demand in Asia and developing countries helped its first half earnings rise 10 percent.
The French food company behind Evian water and Activia … Read more >>>.

Economic recovery, World Cup and good weather boost German consumer confidence

German consumer confidence up strongly
BERLIN – German consumer confidence is up strongly, boosted by expectations that a quicker economic recovery will keep unemployment in check and by cheer over the football World Cup and sunny weather, a survey showed Tuesday.

Germany’s GfK institute said its forward-looking overall indicator for August rose to 3.9 points from 3.6 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Economic recovery, World Cup and good weather boost German consumer confidence.

Go on, give it a try: DC works to educate women on female condom use to fight HIV epidemic

DC pushes female condoms to fight HIV epidemic

WASHINGTON – Charlene Cotton will talk to anyone about sex. Several days a week she stands behind a table decorated with a bowl of flavored condoms and safer sex pamphlets, calling to women passing on the street, “Come check out my table. Don’t be scared.”
She asks: “Have you … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Go on, give it a try: DC works to educate women on female condom use to fight HIV epidemic.

Lok Sabha speaker disallows adjournment motion on price rise

NEW DELHI – Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar Wednesday disallowed an adjournment motion the opposition sought to move for a discussion followed by voting on the rising food prices.

The speaker\’s decision sparked protests and loud slogan shouting by opposition MPs, forcing Meira Kumar to adjourn the house for the
… Read : Lok Sabha speaker disallows adjournment motion on price rise.

Exports from special economic zone zoomed 121 percent

NEW DELHI – In sharp contrast to the slowdown in India’s external trade last fiscal, exports from special economic zones (SEZs) grew by a whopping 121.4 percent, the commerce ministry said Wednesday.

Exports from SEZs during 2009-10 stood at Rs.2,20,711.39 crore ($49 billion). India’s total exports during the same period was down 4.7 percent at $176.5 …. Read the original article  : Exports from special economic zone zoomed 121 percent.

World stock markets gain amid strong earnings and signals of improving Europe economy

World stock markets gain amid strong earnings

BANGKOK – World stocks advanced Wednesday as strong corporate earnings and signals of an improving European economy outweighed fading U.S. consumer confidence.
The yen was down against the dollar, while the euro was up. Oil prices hovered above $77 a barrel after a report showed U.S. oil supplies unexpectedly rose … Original source on Gaea Times at : World stock markets gain amid strong earnings and signals of improving Europe economy.

BP tries to reinvent self with American CEO; Hayward agrees but grouses, ‘Life isn’t fair’

BP hopes to turn page with new CEO, leaner company
NEW ORLEANS – BP officials say they are beginning to reinvent a company that reported a record $17 billion quarterly loss and is navigating the politically fraught task of making the Gulf of Mexico new.
The company named its first American CEO on Tuesday during …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BP tries to reinvent self with American CEO; Hayward agrees but grouses, ‘Life isn’t fair’.

Peugeot Citroen says China sales, new models help drive return to profit

Peugeot Citroen returns to profit in first half

PARIS – PSA Peugeot Citroen SA on Wednesday reported a return to profit in the first half of 2010, beating market expectations and boosting its outlook, thanks to strong demand for new cars in China and a raft of new models.
The French carmaker reported that it made a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Peugeot Citroen says China sales, new models help drive return to profit.

Oil hovers above $77 in Asia as report showed US crude supplies increased unexpectedly

Oil hovers above $77 after surprise US supply jump

SINGAPORE – Oil prices hovered above $77 a barrel Wednesday in Asia after a report showed U.S. crude supplies unexpectedly rose last week, suggesting demand remains weak.
Benchmark crude for September delivery was unchanged at $77.50 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the … Read more >>>.

Rising prices not government failure: Pranab Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee Wednesday welcomed a debate on the rising prices which, he said, was not a government failure and could be discussed but not voted on.

Unless the central government “fails to discharge its duties enjoined by the constitution of the law”, the matter could not be discussed under the adjournment …. Source article  : Rising prices not government failure: Pranab Mukherjee.

ArcelorMittal says 2nd quarter net income reaches $1.7 billion on higher prices, sales

Arcelor makes Q2 net income of $1.7 billion

BRUSSELS, Belgium – ArcelorMittal SA, the world’s biggest steelmaker, said Wednesday that a jump in sales and prices helped it generate net income of $1.7 billion in the second quarter, up from a loss a year earlier, and that it intends to sell its stainless steel unit.
The result … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ArcelorMittal says 2nd quarter net income reaches $1.7 billion on higher prices, sales.

NEC reports $490M quarterly loss after selling off chip unit, slump in data connection service

Japan’s NEC reports $490 million quarterly loss

TOKYO – Japan’s NEC Corp. reported a loss in the latest quarter amid a slump in its network systems business and after hiving off its semiconductor unit .
The Tokyo-based electronics maker Wednesday posted net loss of 43.1 billion yen ($490 million) in the April-June quarter, sinking deeper into the … Original source on Gaea Times at : NEC reports $490M quarterly loss after selling off chip unit, slump in data connection service.

British American Tobacco H1 net profit up 5 percent to 1.53 bln pounds ($2.4 bln)

BAT 1st half profit up 5 pct
LONDON – British American Tobacco PLC, the maker of Dunhill, Pall Mall and Lucky Strike cigarettes, said Wednesday that profits rose 5 percent in the first half of the year, helped by the acquisition of Bentoel in Indonesia.

The company reported a net profit of 1.53 billion pounds ($2.4 billion), …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sensex flat as RIL drags

MUMBAI – Indian equities markets were in for another listless day of trade Wednesday with a key index ruling flat at noon and heavyweight stock Reliance Industries dragging the market.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,077.85 points, was trading at 18,071.26 points, 6.35 points or 0.04 percent …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sensex flat as RIL drags.

BlackBerry stock slips on UAE security concerns

TORONTO – With the United Arab Emirates (UAE) joining India in seeking access to BlackBerry’s encryption key to let their intelligence agencies have access to emails, shares of Blackberry maker Research In Motion (RIM) fell for the second consecutive day Tuesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

After slipping 1.8 percent Monday, the RIM stock fell further … Read more »»».

John Woo joins cast of Chinese propaganda blockbuster to mark party’s 90th anniversary

Woo joins cast of Chinese propaganda blockbuster

HONG KONG – A-List filmmaker John Woo is the first celebrity to join the cast of the second major film in the leading Chinese state film studio’s campaign to reform the propaganda genre with a heavy dose of star power.
Last year, China Film Group Corp. released “The Founding of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : John Woo joins cast of Chinese propaganda blockbuster to mark party’s 90th anniversary.

IMF says China’s currency undervalued but praises ‘effective’ response to global crisis

IMF: China currency undervalued but policy sound

BEIJING – The International Monetary Fund said China’s yuan is undervalued in a mildly worded assessment Wednesday of its controversial currency controls and praised Beijing’s response to the global crisis.
The comments came in a review by the Washington-based fund of Chinese economic policy, the first in three years. Such … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : IMF says China’s currency undervalued but praises ‘effective’ response to global crisis.

Massive opportunities seen in India-Latin America ties

WASHINGTON – Stressing the great integration potential between India and Latin America, a new study calls for closer economic ties between the two distant partners to tap into “massive” trade and investment opportunities.

The study “India: Latin America’s Next Big Thing?” released Tuesday by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) looks into recent development and [..] Read the original article: here.

Oil falls to near $77 in Asia as report showed US crude supplies increased unexpectedly

Oil falls to near $77 on unexpected US supply jump

SINGAPORE – Oil prices fell to near $77 a barrel Wednesday in Asia after a report showed U.S. crude supplies unexpectedly rose last week, suggesting demand remains weak.
Benchmark crude for September delivery was down 22 cents at $77.28 a barrel at midday Singapore time in electronic … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oil falls to near $77 in Asia as report showed US crude supplies increased unexpectedly.

Democrats, Republicans select women as nominees for open Oklahoma governor’s post

Women to head GOP, Democratic tickets in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma will have its first female governor this January after Democrats and Republicans, for the fourth time in U.S. history, nominated women to lead their tickets in the general election.
Republicans rejected anti-Washington sentiment on Tuesday, selecting a two-term congresswoman instead of a tea party-backed conservative …. Source article  : Democrats, Republicans select women as nominees for open Oklahoma governor’s post.

Askins beats Edmondson for Democratic nomination in Oklahoma governor’s race

Edmondson concedes in Okla. Democratic primary

OKLAHOMA CITY – The race for Oklahoma governor will feature two women at the top of the ticket.
Lt. Gov. Jari Askins defeated Attorney General Drew Edmonson on Tuesday. The attorney general conceded in a late-night speech that he would not make up the slim margin Askins held as the final … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Askins beats Edmondson for Democratic nomination in Oklahoma governor’s race.

British PM Cameron brings delegation to India to renew trade, political ties

British PM visits India to boost trade links

BANGALORE, India – British Prime Minister David Cameron and a massive delegation of Cabinet ministers and dignitaries fanned out across India on Wednesday in a visit aimed at rebuilding trade relations and other ties between the two nations.
As the former colonial power here, Britain has had a complicated …. Source  : British PM Cameron brings delegation to India to renew trade, political ties.

Selling the rings: Olympic dash for cash leads to a few eyebrow-raising sponsorship deals

Olympic committees striking some unusual deals

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – With the struggling economy leaving a void in sponsorships and the London Games only two years away, Olympic officials have been peddling their brand aggressively.
The result has been some unusual partnerships that marketing experts say leave the Olympic committees open to questioning.
Some examples from the past …. Source article  : Selling the rings: Olympic dash for cash leads to a few eyebrow-raising sponsorship deals.

Kerala house adjourned sine die amid opposition protest

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The last day of Kerala assembly’s session ahead of the ensuing civic elections ended amid drama and heated exchanges between the treasury benches and the opposition over allegedly dubious purchase of tribals’ land by companies.

Speaker K. Radhakrishnan tried unsuccessfully to get opposition members, protesting in the well of the house, to occupy their …. Original source  : Kerala house adjourned sine die amid opposition protest.

Data on ECB/FCCB for June 2010

The Reserve Bank of India has today released the data on External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) (www.rbi.org.in/scripts/ECBUserView.aspx?Id=79) and Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds (FCCB), both through Automatic Route and Approval Route, for the month June 2010.
Ajit Prasad
Manager
Press Release : 2010-2011/153

… Read more »»».

Panasonic plans to buy out subsidiaries Sanyo, Panasonic Electric under $9.4B green initiative

Panasonic to buy out Sanyo, Panasonic Electric

TOKYO – Panasonic is planning to take 100 percent ownership of its subsidiaries Sanyo Electric and Panasonic Electric Works in a move costing up to $9.4 billion to strengthen green businesses such as electric cars and solar panels.
Japan’s biggest consumer electronics maker said in a statement Thursday it will …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Automaker Volkswagen says 1st-half profit up strongly to $2.4 billion

Volkswagen’s H1 profit up strongly at $2.4B

BERLIN – Automaker Volkswagen AG says its first-half net earnings surged to ???1.82 billion ($2.4 billion) as strong demand from China helped pushed sales higher.
Volkswagen’s profit for the January-June period was up from ???494 million a year earlier.
The company didn’t immediately offer second-quarter figures in a statement Thursday.
Volkswagen says …. Original source  : Automaker Volkswagen says 1st-half profit up strongly to $2.4 billion.

Visa profits exceed estimates

SAN FRANCISCO – Profits at Visa Inc. exceeded analysts’ expectations as an increasing number of consumers opted to pay with plastic.

The company with the world’s largest credit and debit card network, posted third-quarter (ended June 30) net income of $716 million, compared to $729 million in the year-ago period.
“Visa delivered a solid financial performance … Read more : Visa profits exceed estimates.

Japan iPhone carrier Softbank says business soared in April-June but profits fell due to taxes

Softbank profits fall in April-June on heavy taxes

TOKYO – Softbank Corp., which runs the only Japanese mobile carrier to offer the iPhone and iPad, said Thursday the popular products drove its strong performance last quarter, but its net profit fell 29 percent due to a tax hit.
The Tokyo-based Internet and communications conglomerate also said it … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Japan iPhone carrier Softbank says business soared in April-June but profits fell due to taxes.

Statoil Q2 profits surge on higher oil prices, production

Statoil posts Q2 profit surge
OSLO, Norway – Norwegian oil company Statoil ASA said second-quarter net profit surged to 3.6 billion kroner ($584 million) from only 77 million kroner a year earlier, as increased production and rising oil prices offset a weak natural gas market.

Quarterly revenue rose to 129 billion kroner from 104.6 billion kroner in … Read : Statoil Q2 profits surge on higher oil prices, production.

Panasonic returns to black on growing sales, raises full year forecasts

Panasonic returns to black as appliance sales boom

TOKYO – Panasonic, Japan’s biggest home appliance maker, returned to profit in its latest quarter and raised full year forecasts amid stronger sales of products from air conditioners to flat-panel TVs.
Panasonic Corp. reported Thursday that April-June profit totaled 43.7 billion yen ($502 million), a reversal from a 53 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sensex ruling flat amid tardy global cues

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities markets Thursday afternoon recovered after a brief slip but was still ruling flat amid sluggish global cues.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 17,961.58 points, was trading at 17,972.88 points, 15.51 points or 0.09 percent down from its previous …. Original article  : Sensex ruling flat amid tardy global cues.

UKIBC appoints new chief executive

LONDON – Richard Heald has been appointed the new chief executive of the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) that networks businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals of the two countries.

Heald is currently the vice chairman of N.M. Rothschild and Sons (India), where he has worked for 17 years and has been travelling to India for the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

German chemicals maker BASF’s 2nd-quarter earnings soar to $1.5 billion

Chemicals maker BASF sees Q2 earnings triple

BERLIN – Second-quarter profits at BASF SE more than tripled as a recovering global economy boosted demand and industry restocked inventories after the recession, the chemicals company said Thursday.
BASF reported a net profit of euro1.18 billion ($1.5 billion) in the April-June period, up from euro343 million a year earlier.
Revenues … Read this article on Gaea Times at : German chemicals maker BASF’s 2nd-quarter earnings soar to $1.5 billion.

Nissan returns to profit on sales growth, sticks to full year forecast on global recovery

Nissan returns to profit on sales growth
TOKYO – Nissan Motor Co. veered back into the black in its latest quarter as global auto sales rebounded, putting the company on track to meet its yearly profit target.

Yokohama-based Nissan, maker of the Leaf electric vehicle and the March compact, said Thursday its profit was 106.6 billion yen … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nissan returns to profit on sales growth, sticks to full year forecast on global recovery.

Rio Tinto and Chinalco sign agreement to establish Guinea joint venture

Rio Tinto and Chinalco sign iron ore deal
LONDON – Anglo-Australian mining company Rio Tinto PLC and China’s state-owned Chinalco have signed a binding agreement to establish a joint venture to operate an iron ore project in Guinea in West Africa.

London-based Rio Tinto said Thursday that Chalco, a subsidiary of Chinalco, will acquire a 47 percent [..] Read the original article: here.

Police scuffle with fuel-truck drivers after emergency order to end strike

Greek police tear gas protesting fuel drivers

ATHENS, Greece – Greek police used tear gas Thursday to disperse protesting fuel-truck drivers, whose strike is hurting tourism and industry, after the government issued an emergency order to force them back to work.
The scuffles occurred as some 500 drivers gathered in protest outside the transport ministry, but the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

JCB launches its 100,000th machine manufactured in India

NEW DELHI – Road Transport and Highways Minister Kamal Nath and visiting British Business Secretary Vince Cable Thursday unveiled the 100,000th excavator manufactured by construction equipment maker J.C. Bamford (JCB) here.

“To develop India, we need to build roads and for that we need to make greater use of the the latest technology available. JCB has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : JCB launches its 100,000th machine manufactured in India.

Germany’s Lufthansa reports 2nd-quarter profit of $252 million as ticket sales rise

Lufthansa reports Q2 profit of $252 million

BERLIN – Airline group Deutsche Lufthansa AG more than doubled its net earnings to ???194 million ($252 million) in the second quarter as ticket sales and its cargo business recovered, the company said Thursday.
Earnings in the April-June period compared with last year’s equivalent of ???89 million.
The company also said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BAE Systems returns to profit in first-half despite cuts to national defense budgets

BAE Systems returns to H1 profit
LONDON – BAE Systems PLC, Europe’s largest defense contractor, said Thursday that costs cuts and a focus on emerging markets helped it make a profit in the first half, reversing a year-ago loss despite worries about reductions to national defense spending.

BAE’s net profit of 618 million pounds ($965 million) for [..] Read the original article: here.

Food inflation falls to single digits at 9.67 percent

NEW DELHI – For the first time this year, India’s annual food inflation eased to single digits at 9.67 percent for the week ended July 17, from 12.47 percent a week earlier, providing relief to an embattled government facing a united opposition attack on rising prices.

Food inflation had remained above the 16 percent level for … Read : Food inflation falls to single digits at 9.67 percent.

Earnings at Germany’s Siemens up 9 percent at $1.9 billion in latest quarter

Siemens quarterly earnings up 9 percent
BERLIN – A strong increase in orders in a recovering economy helped push earnings at Siemens AG 9 percent higher in the most recent quarter, the industrial conglomerate said Thursday.

Siemens, based in Munich, reported net profit of nearly euro1.44 billion ($1.9 billion) for the April-June period, the company’s fiscal third …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Emami Q1 net profit up 126.7 percent

KOLKATA – Diversified consumer non-durables group Emami posted a 126.7 percent rise in net profit at Rs.35.25 crore for the first quarter (April-June) of 2010-11.

It had logged a profit of Rs.15.55 crore during the corresponding period last fiscal, a company statement said here Friday.
The company’s international business with revenues of Rs.27 crore has grown … Read more : Emami Q1 net profit up 126.7 percent.

World stock markets fall weak Japanese economic figures take shine off strong earnings

World stocks fall as data takes shine off earnings

BANGKOK – World markets fell Friday, overlooking strong earnings in Asia and Europe as Japanese shares tumbled on a strong yen and dour economic figures ahead of a key U.S. growth report.
Global electronics giant Samsung reported an 83 percent surge in quarterly profit as sales of panels …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : World stock markets fall weak Japanese economic figures take shine off strong earnings.

Obama traveling to Michigan on Friday to sell good news story of government’s auto bailout

Obama to sell auto bailout good news in Michigan
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is going to the heart of the U.S. auto industry to push an important election-year claim: his administration’s unpopular auto industry bailout has turned into an economic good-news story.
With Americans facing a still-limping economy and potentially …. Source  : Obama traveling to Michigan on Friday to sell good news story of government’s auto bailout.

Renault in bigger than anticipated return to profit as first half car sales rise sharply

Renault returns to profit in first half
PARIS – Renault SA said Friday it returned to profit in the first half of the year as higher car sales in all regions helped reverse massive losses a year earlier.

Europe’s number three car maker behind Volkswagen AG and PSA Peugeot Citroen SA reported net profit of ???780 million … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Renault in bigger than anticipated return to profit as first half car sales rise sharply.

Rs.4,868 crore compensation to public sector banks

NEW DELHI – The government Friday approved compensation of Rs.4,868 crore to public sector banks for providing loans to farmers at lower interest rates.

“The Cabinet today gave its approval for the release of a sum of Rs.4,868 crore as interest subvention to Public Sector Banks (PSBs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and Cooperative Banks and to …. Original source  : Rs.4,868 crore compensation to public sector banks.

Samsung Electronics posts record second-quarter profit

SEOUL – South Korean electronics giant Samsung Electronics Co Friday posted a record 83 percent net profit rise for the second quarter, boosted by strong demand for chips and flatscreen televisions.

The net profit of the world’s largest semiconductor maker rose to 4.28 trillion won ($3.6 billion) from 2.33 trillion won year on year.
Operating …. Read the original article  : Samsung Electronics posts record second-quarter profit.

Bangladesh garment workers reject new minimum wage rates, clash with police

Bangladesh garment workers reject new wage rates
DHAKA, Bangladesh – Thousands of garment workers unhappy over their wages rampaged through central Dhaka on Friday, clashing with police who used tear gas and batons to clear the streets.
The protesters smashed vehicles and blocked traffic in Dhaka’s central Mahakhali district, the site of dozens of garment …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bangladesh garment workers reject new minimum wage rates, clash with police.

Goa to frame new mining policy

PANAJI – Faced with increasing civic protests against rampant mining in the state, the Goa government is considering framing a new mining policy.

In a written reply in the assembly, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat Friday also said his government is processing more than 600 applications for prospecting licences.
“The application for grant of prospecting … Original source on Gaea Times at : Goa to frame new mining policy.

Airbus parent EADS raises hopes for the full year, even as it reports decline in net profit

EADS raises outlook despite drop in Q2 profit

PARIS – EADS NV, the parent company of plane-maker Airbus, on Friday raised its outlook for 2010 – despite a 61 percent drop in second quarter earnings – as a resurgence in commercial aviation boosted hopes that a painful two-year downturn is over.
“We feel more comfortable for the …. Original article  : Airbus parent EADS raises hopes for the full year, even as it reports decline in net profit.

Mercedes to launch new models to stay ahead of competition

CHENNAI – Luxury car maker Mercedes Benz India is planning to launch new models, start a second shift and continue brand spend to stay ahead of competition in a market that is slated to grow at 50 percent this year.

The company is also looking forward to the launch of a finance arm by its … Read : Mercedes to launch new models to stay ahead of competition.

Chicken producers debate whether poultry injected with salt, water should qualify as ‘natural’

Chicken producers debate ‘natural’ label
SAN FRANCISCO – A disagreement among poultry producers about whether chicken injected with salt, water and other ingredients can be promoted as “natural” has prompted federal officials to consider changing labeling guidelines.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture had maintained that if chicken wasn’t flavored artificially or preserved with chemicals, it could carry … Read more : Chicken producers debate whether poultry injected with salt, water should qualify as ‘natural’.

New wages for Dhaka’s garment workers

DHAKA – Bangladesh has announced new wage scales for its ailing garment industry but the workers are still persisting with their Taka 5,000 ($71) minimum wage demand.

Many of the workers’ collectives threatened a stir Thursday, minutes after the government formally announced the new scales. An apprentice will get Taka 2,500 under the new wage … Original source on Gaea Times at : New wages for Dhaka’s garment workers.

Emerging markets drive Hitachi’s strong return to profit in April-to-June quarter

Hitachi climbs to profits on Asian demand
TOKYO – Hitachi Ltd., a maker of everything from home appliances to nuclear reactors, returned to profit last quarter as strong Asian demand fueled recovery in the auto and electronics sectors.

The company said Friday it booked a net profit of 86 billion yen ($989 million) for April through June …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sensex subdued, Asian cues negative

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities Friday afternoon was trading quiet, tracking negative other Asian markets.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 17,981.06 points, was trading at 17,942.41 points, 49.59 points or 0.28 percent down from its previous close at 17,992 points.
At the National …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

France’s oil giant Total second quarter profit up 43 percent on stronger refinery business

France’s Total Q2 profit up 43 percent
PARIS – French oil company Total SA said Friday its second-quarter profit jumped 43 percent thanks to rising production and improving refinery activity after a rough 2009, and said it is reviewing drilling and accident policies after the BP spill.

Total reported euro3.1 billion ($4.05 billion) in profits for the … Read more : France’s oil giant Total second quarter profit up 43 percent on stronger refinery business.

Taiwanese eager to keep separate identity despite warming ties with rival China

Taiwanese wary about China amid warming ties

TAIPEI, Taiwan – In the crowded Taipei theater, Eddy Fang laughs politely at the Chinese ensemble’s comic references to jealous husbands and overweight wives but can’t help thinking it’s all a bit lowbrow in relatively sophisticated Taiwan.
The performance by the Zhao Benshan troupe from Liaoning province ostensibly aims to … Read more >>>.

Despite Obama’s boredom with BlackBerry, RIM to unveil new device

TORONTO – With Apple’s iPhone 4 threatening to topple it from its top perch in North America and even President Barrack Obama admitting on a TV show Thursday that using BlackBerry is “no fun” any more, the smartphone maker Research In Motion (RIM) seems all set to unveil a new device next week.

The Canadian wireless …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Despite Obama’s boredom with BlackBerry, RIM to unveil new device.

Honda posts record quarterly profit on growth in Asia, North America, booming motorcycle sales

Honda posts record quarterly profit on sales rise

TOKYO – Honda’s quarterly profit ballooned to 272.4 billion yen ($3.2 billion) and the carmaker raised its full year earnings forecast as sales grew in North America, Japan and the rest of Asia.
The maker of the Insight hybrid, Fit subcompact and Odyssey minivan said Friday its profit for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Honda posts record quarterly profit on growth in Asia, North America, booming motorcycle sales.

Airbus parent EADS reports 61 percent decline in net profit, increases 2010 guidance

EADS Q2 net profit decline 61 percent
PARIS – EADS NV, the parent company of plane-maker Airbus, on Friday raised its outlook for 2010 – despite a 61 percent drop in second quarter earnings – as its commercial aviation business takes off.

Louis Gallois, the CEO of Paris-based European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co., in a statement …. Original source  : Airbus parent EADS reports 61 percent decline in net profit, increases 2010 guidance.

Invest in India’s water and sanitation sectors: US official

WASHINGTON – Noting that 12 percent of India’s over 1.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water, the US has asked donors to make targeted investments in India’s water and sanitation sector.

“Targeted investments, even very small ones, in the water and sanitation sector can have indisputable economic and public health benefits,” Robert Blake, … Read more : Invest in India’s water and sanitation sectors: US official.

Pilots quit Philippine Airlines for higher-paying jobs

MANILA – The Philippines’ flag carrier Saturday cancelled about a dozen domestic and international flights after several pilots resigned for higher-paying jobs with foreign airlines.

Dozens of flights were also delayed for hours due to the lack of pilots, according to Philippine Airlines (PAL).
PAL spokesman Jonathan Gesmundo said the problem affected flights using Airbus A320 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pilots quit Philippine Airlines for higher-paying jobs.

Madhya Pradesh to add 5,486 MW power by 2014

BHOPAL – Power-starved Madhya Pradesh will add 5,486 MW power by 2013-14 with several under-construction thermal power projects to be commissioned by then, an official said Saturday.

“Madhya Pradesh is striving hard to get over the power crisis with several coal-fired under-construction projects, including the 1,200 MW Malwa thermal power project, set to be commissioned by … Read more : Madhya Pradesh to add 5,486 MW power by 2014.

NALCO floats tender to buy two lakh tonne coal

BHUBANESWAR – The state-owned National Aluminium Co. Ltd. (NALCO) has floated a tender to buy 200,000 tonnes washed coal for its captive power plant in Orissa’s Angul town, a company official said Saturday.

The company will buy the coal from the domestic market, he said, adding that the last date for submission of bids is Aug … Original source on Gaea Times at : NALCO floats tender to buy two lakh tonne coal.

Fears of second recession in US loom

WASHINGTON – Fears of another recession in the United States loomed as the government reported slower growth in the second quarter and the International Monetary Fund said the country’s financial system remains fragile.

The US economy continued to grow during the second quarter with the gross domestic product (GDP) rising at a slower than expected 2.4 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bill and Hillary Clinton emerge on eve of daughter Chelsea’s nuptials in upstate NY village

Clintons emerge in NY on eve of Chelsea’s wedding
RHINEBECK, N.Y. – Bill Clinton made a long-anticipated appearance in the upstate New York village where his daughter is getting married, drawing crowds of onlookers Friday afternoon as preparations continued largely out of sight for the grand and secretive occasion.
In the evening, hundreds of people …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bill and Hillary Clinton emerge on eve of daughter Chelsea’s nuptials in upstate NY village.

Poor facilities washing away Cherrapunjee’s tourism prospects

CHERRAPUNJEE – Dotted with waterfalls cascading over deep gorges, this town – renamed Sohra – is famous the world over as the wettest place on earth due to its magical rains. But lack of facilities have prompted some to dub it as a “third class tourist destination”.

“Cherrapunjee is a third class tourist destination. I feel …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Poor facilities washing away Cherrapunjee’s tourism prospects.

Apple invades BlackBerry territory with iPhone 4

TORONTO – Apple invaded BlackBerry territory Friday with the launch of its iPhone 4 across Canada. Frenzied Canadians lined up in front of Apple stores and other authorized retailers from Toronto to Halifax to Vancouver almost 24 hours before the delivery of the smartphone started in Canada.

“It feels great in my hands. I am so …. Original source  : Apple invades BlackBerry territory with iPhone 4.

Bank Of Baroda On A High

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- One of the largest public sector banks of India, Bank Of Baroda finished its June quarter this year with steep loan growth and improved asset quality, ahead of its closest competitors like Union Bank of India and Punjab National Bank. It is in fact coming close to the Punjab National … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bank Of Baroda On A High.

TransCanada gets ‘multiple bids’ from entities interested in Alaska line to ship natural gas

TransCanada: ‘Multiple bids’ for Alaska gas line
JUNEAU, Alaska – TransCanada Corp. has received multiple bids from “major industry players and others” that want to use its proposed pipeline to transport natural gas from Alaska’s North Slope to market, a company official said Friday.
As expected, few details were released Friday, when TransCanada … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : TransCanada gets ‘multiple bids’ from entities interested in Alaska line to ship natural gas.

Regulators shut down banks in Fla., Ga., Ore., Wash.; makes 108 US bank failures this year

Regulators close banks in Fla., Ga., Ore., Wash.

WASHINGTON – Regulators on Friday shut banks in Florida, Georgia, Oregon and Washington, lifting to 108 the number of U.S. banks to fail this year as the industry has struggled to cope with mounting loan defaults and recession.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over the banks: Bayside Savings … Read more : Regulators shut down banks in Fla., Ga., Ore., Wash.; makes 108 US bank failures this year.

Regulators shut down banks in Florida, Georgia, Wash.; makes 107 US bank failures this year

Regulators close banks in Fla., Ga., Wash.

WASHINGTON – Regulators have shut banks in Florida, Georgia and Washington, lifting to 107 the number of U.S. banks to fail this year as the industry has struggled to cope with mounting loan defaults and recession.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over the banks: Bayside Savings Bank in Port … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Regulators shut down banks in Florida, Georgia, Wash.; makes 107 US bank failures this year.

India, US sign nuclear reprocessing deal

WASHINGTON – India and the United States have signed an agreement on the nuclear fuel reprocessing arrangements under the India-US civil nuclear deal completing another key step in implementing the landmark accord.

The agreement signed by Indian ambassador to the US Meera Shankar and the US Secretary of State at the State Department Friday will enable … Read more >>.

Mass. House, Senate leaders agree to compromise on casino bill; Gov. Patrick threatens veto

Mass. legislative leaders OK deal on casino bill

BOSTON – Massachusetts House and Senate leaders agreed Friday to the state’s most sweeping expansion of gambling in four decades – drawing immediate criticism from Gov. Deval Patrick, who said he can’t sign the bill.
The bill would authorize three casinos and two slot machine parlors, the latter of … Read more >>>.

Tax study default leaves Nevada lawmakers upset, angry, as state faces huge deficit

Tax study default leaves Nevada lawmakers upset

CARSON CITY, Nev. – State lawmakers expressed frustration and anger Friday after an international research firm defaulted on a tax study, leaving legislators without an updated playbook as they face a budget deficit that could top $3 billion going into the 2011 session.
“It’s hard for me to understand how …. Original source  : Tax study default leaves Nevada lawmakers upset, angry, as state faces huge deficit.

Girl injured falling 40 feet to ground when safety net fails at Wis. amusement park attraction

12-year-old girl injured on Wis. ‘free fall’ ride

MADISON, Wis. – Police say a safety net under a “free fall” attraction at a popular Wisconsin amusement park failed to catch a 12-year-old girl who plunged more than 40 feet before hitting the ground.
The girl was seriously injured in the Friday fall at the Wisconsin Dells and …. Source article  : Girl injured falling 40 feet to ground when safety net fails at Wis. amusement park attraction.

PricewaterhouseCoopers laying off 500 technology workers, primarily in Fla.

PricewaterhouseCoopers laying off 500 employees

TAMPA, Fla. – PricewaterhouseCoopers is laying off about 500 in-house information technology employees – most from its offices in Tampa.
The company says the cuts are part of a larger effort to better coordinate IT services in the United States and United Kingdom. The layoffs will slash the ranks of PWC’s IT …. Source  : PricewaterhouseCoopers laying off 500 technology workers, primarily in Fla..

Autopsy: Pittsburgh-area sewage plant worker died of injuries suffered in fall, not fumes

Autopsy: Pittsburgh-area plant worker died of fall

SEWICKLEY, Pa. – Authorities say a worker apparently overcome by fumes at a western Pennsylvania sewage plant died from injuries suffered in a subsequent fall, not toxic gas.
The Allegheny County medical examiner’s office ruled Friday that 31-year-old Jack Hogan III of Baden died of blunt force trauma. The death … Read more »»».

Lawsuit blames NY Mets owners for letting workers put retirement money in Madoff investments

Suit blames Mets owners for Madoff-related losses

NEW YORK – A new lawsuit blames the owners of the New York Mets for letting workers put more than $16 million in 401(k) assets into accounts controlled by jailed financier Bernard Madoff.
The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Manhattan on Friday. It was brought by the wife … Read more : Lawsuit blames NY Mets owners for letting workers put retirement money in Madoff investments.

Titans open camp with CJ happy, VY unpunished, coaching staff reshuffled after busy offseason

Titans eager for camp after hectic offseason

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – It’s time for Jeff Fisher to open his 16th straight training camp with the Tennessee Titans, and that first practice Saturday will be a welcome return to football after a busy offseason.
Fisher expects Chris Johnson to show up, happy the Titans reshuffled some money to pay … Read more : Titans open camp with CJ happy, VY unpunished, coaching staff reshuffled after busy offseason.

Regulators shut down 2 Florida banks, 1 in Georgia; makes 106 US bank failures this year

Regulators close 3 banks in Florida, Georgia

WASHINGTON – Regulators on Friday shut two banks in Florida and one in Georgia, lifting to 106 the number of U.S. banks to fail this year as the industry has struggled to cope with mounting loan defaults and recession.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over the banks: Bayside Savings … Read more >>>.

New political party formed after Suu Kyi party disbanded open headquarters in Myanmar

Suu Kyi party renegades open new headquarters

YANGON, Myanmar – A new party formed by renegade members of Aung Sang Suu Kyi’s disbanded Myanmar opposition party opened its headquarters Sunday but says it now faces the hurdle of finding funding to field candidates.
All candidates contesting military-run Myanmar’s first election in two decades must pay the Election [..] Read the original article: here.

Prices of better quality Himachal apples firming up

SHIMLA – Prices of superior grade apples are slowly bouncing back, much to relief to the growers in Himachal Pradesh.

“The market has started looking up with prices of superior grade of apples increased by Rs.200 to Rs.300 a box,” said Gian Singh Chandel, chairman of the apple market committee at Dhalli near here.
“The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prices of better quality Himachal apples firming up.

Bank ATMs too can be hacked

LAS VEGAS – Even bank ATMs are not hack-proof. A security expert in US has demonstrated how a hacker using specific software can make the automated teller machines spew out its cash without knowing the password.

Barnaby Jack, director of security testing at Seattle-based IOActive, hauled two ATMs onto a stage and demonstrated to a rapt … Read more : Bank ATMs too can be hacked.

Sarkozy orders plane to rival Air Force One

LONDON – Nicolas Sarkozy’s dream of having his own presidential aircraft to rival the US’ Air Force One will soon come true as the French president has ordered an “Air Sarko One”, fitted with an air filter system so that he can smoke whenever he wants.

A specially-upholstered 150-million-pound Airbus A330-200 has been selected for the … Read more >>.

Himachal gets 10 percent deficit rainfall

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh has received 10 percent less monsoon rains so far this year, the met office said here Sunday.

“The overall monsoon was below average in most districts of the state. Till date the state saw 269.3 mm of rain against the normal average of 298.3 mm, which means the state got 10 percent … Original article on : Himachal gets 10 percent deficit rainfall.

Bihar now building one bridge a day, connecting people

PATNA – Bihar, now ranked among the fastest-growing Indian states with an enviable expansion of 16.59 percent last fiscal, has been building one bridge each working day since November 2005, leaving Chief Minister Nitish Kumar quite busy cutting ribbons.

“We have built 1,671 bridges under the Chief Minister’s Bridge Building Programme and another 450-odd bridges … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bihar now building one bridge a day, connecting people.

Emami to launch babycare products, buy Egyptian healthcare unit

KOLKATA – The $675-million diversified Emami Group has decided to acquire a healthcare unit in Egypt to tap the fast-growing African market. It will start growing jatropha there to export to India and launch babycare products in the domestic market in 2011.

“We have almost finalised the deal for a personal healthcare products manufacturing unit in … Read more »»».

Survey: Growth in Chinese manufacturing continues to slow amid drops in production, new orders

Growth in Chinese manufacturing continues to slow

BEIJING – Expansion of Chinese manufacturing activity slowed for the third month in July, as production, new orders and purchasing prices all declined, a survey showed Sunday.
The state-affiliated China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing said its purchasing managers index, or PMI, fell to 51.2 in July from 52.1 in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Survey: Growth in Chinese manufacturing continues to slow amid drops in production, new orders.

Blackhawks G Antti Niemi awarded $2.75 million in arbitration

Blackhawks’ Niemi gets $2.75M in arbitration

CHICAGO – Goalie Antti Niemi has been awarded a $2.75 million salary for next season, an arbitrator’s decision that could force the Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks to make another tough decision about their roster.
Niemi earned $826,875 last season as a rookie. He played all but one period of Chicago’s postseason [..] Read the original article: here.

Spokesman: Doctors to let Zsa Zsa Gabor return home from hospital Friday

Spokesman: Gabor to go home from hospital Friday

LOS ANGELES – Doctors plan to let Zsa Zsa Gabor return home Friday, about three weeks after the 93-year-old actress was hospitalized with a broken hip.
Gabor’s publicist, John Blanchette, said Saturday that she would spend the rest of the week receiving physical therapy.
Gabor’s husband, Prince Frederic von Anhalt, …. Source article  : Spokesman: Doctors to let Zsa Zsa Gabor return home from hospital Friday.

Apple iPhone 4 users can now chat with X-rated stars

LONDON – The porn industry is developing video-sex chat services for Apple iPhone 4 users so they can make live sex chats with X-rated stars.

Using the iPhone 4’s Face Time, firms are developing video-sex chat services and are hiring girls through internet adverts in the US, Daily Mail reported on its website Friday.
Face Time …. Read the original article  : here.

Bartenders, beverage servers at Connecticut casino vote in favor of union representation

Conn. casino bartenders, others vote to unionize

MASHANTUCKET, Conn. – Bartenders, beverage servers, and other workers at the Foxwoods Resort Casino voted Saturday in favor of having union representation.
The National Labor Relations Board, which ordered the election, said the result was 190-145.
Brian Petronella, president of Local 371 of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union called … Read more >>.

Goa to strengthen ties with diaspora

NEW DELHI – Goa is following in the footsteps of Kerala to engage with its non-residents who make up at least one-third of the state’s 1.5 million population and contribute substantially to the Goan economy.

Eduardo Faleiro, Goa commissioner for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), who is the man behind the efforts, hopes the efforts will best serve … Read more »».

Chelsea Clinton marries longtime boyfriend at exclusive estate in upstate New York village

Chelsea Clinton weds at exclusive New York estate
RHINEBECK, N.Y. – Chelsea Clinton wed her longtime boyfriend under extraordinary security at an elegant Hudson River estate late Saturday.
Bill Clinton and Hillary Rodham Clinton announced in a statement that their daughter wed investment banker Marc Mezvinsky after weeks of secrecy and buildup that had celebrity … Original article on : Chelsea Clinton marries longtime boyfriend at exclusive estate in upstate New York village.

Colombia denies hostile designs toward Venezuela, denies Chavez claim of helicopter incursion

Colombia denies hostile intent toward Venezuela

BOGOTA, Colombia – Colombia’s government says it has never considered attacking Venezuela, saying Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is deceiving his people by claiming Bogota may have such designs.
A statement Saturday by Colombia also denies an allegation by Chavez that a Colombian military helicopter encroached Venezuelan airspace for five minutes.
Tensions have … Read more : Colombia denies hostile designs toward Venezuela, denies Chavez claim of helicopter incursion.

Columbia River Gorge company lands contact to develop nation’s next spy craft

Boeing subsidiary lands $43.7M military contract

BINGEN, Wash. – Boeing subsidiary Insitu Inc. has won a $43.7 million contract to build the military’s next generation of remote-controlled spy craft.
The company based in the Columbia River Gorge town of Bingen, Wash., beat out several competitors to develop the drone.
Design improvements and testing were expected to take two … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Columbia River Gorge company lands contact to develop nation’s next spy craft.

Spirit Airlines’ controversial carry-on bag fees takes effect Sunday

Spirit Airlines’ carry-on bag fee starts Sunday

Spirit Airlines passengers may want to get to the airport a little earlier than normal Sunday as a new charge for carry-on bags takes effect.
The low-fare airline sparked controversy in April when it announced plans to charge for carry-on items. Passengers who pay in advance, either online or by … Read : Spirit Airlines’ controversial carry-on bag fees takes effect Sunday.

4-vehicle motorcade passes checkpoint near estate where Chelsea Clinton is to wed

Motorcade en route to site of Clinton’s NY wedding
RHINEBECK, N.Y. – A motorcade of three black SUVs and a sedan have sped through a checkpoint on the road leading to the exclusive estate where Chelsea Clinton was poised to marry her longtime boyfriend.
At approximately 5:30 p.m. Saturday, the motorcade made its way to [..] Read the original article: here.

Dozens of guests on way to NY estate where Chelsea Clinton will wed longtime boyfriend

Guests making way to site of Clinton’s NY wedding
RHINEBECK, N.Y. – Guests are gathering and are being transported to the secluded estate in upstate New York where Chelsea Clinton was poised to marry her longtime boyfriend.
Dozens of men in black-tie attire and women in gowns are boarding shuttle buses in the village of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dozens of guests on way to NY estate where Chelsea Clinton will wed longtime boyfriend.

Mass. lawmakers give initial OK to 3 casino, 2 slot parlor bill; Gov. Patrick opposed

Mass. lawmakers give initial OK to casino bill

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Legislature gave initial approval Saturday to a casino bill that would create the most sweeping expansion of gambling in the state in four decades, even as Gov. Deval Patrick opposed the measure.
The bill would authorize three casinos and two slot machine parlors, to be [..] Read the original article: here.