New Nissan plant inaugurated in central China, part of move to nearly double capacity by 2012

New Nissan plant boosts output capacity in China

SHANGHAI – Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Co. inaugurated a new factory Monday in the central Chinese city of Zhengzhou, part of an expansion that will nearly double its production capacity in the world’s biggest vehicle market by 2012.
The new 1 billion yuan ($148 million) Zhengzhou Nissan Co. factory …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Punj Llyod bags engineering contract from Saudi oil firm

MUMBAI – Infrastructure major Punj Lloyd has secured an engineering and procurement contract from Saudi Arabian state-run oil company Saudi Aramco.

The order was secured by the Indian firm’s Saudi Arabia based subsidiary, Dayim Punj Llyod.
In a release, Punj Lyod said the contract was for engineering, procurement and construction of offsite pipelines for Saudi Aramco’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Punj Llyod bags engineering contract from Saudi oil firm.

Core Projects acquires two US firms worth $25 mn revenue

NEW DELHI – India’s leading global education company Core Projects and Technologies Ltd (CPTL) Monday said that it has acquired two education firms in the US worth a combined revenue generation of $25 million.

“The company has acquired Technical Systems Integrators LLC (TSI), a Georgia-based education solutions company, and New York-based Keenan and Keenan Group …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sensex momentum continues, heavyweights soar

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities continued with its bull run Monday, finding key support from heavyweight stocks like Reliance Industries, ITC and Bharti Airtel.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 19,445.2 points, was at 19,771.32 points, 176.57 points or 0.9 percent up from its …. Read the original article  : Sensex momentum continues, heavyweights soar.

McCourt divorce trial set to resume in Los Angeles with former Dodgers CEO’s testimony

McCourt divorce trial set to resume in Calif.

LOS ANGELES – Former Los Angeles Dodgers CEO Jamie McCourt contends she would never give away an ownership stake to one of baseball’s more storied franchises. She’ll now have to explain to a judge why she signed a postnuptial agreement that gives the team to her estranged husband.
McCourt … Read : McCourt divorce trial set to resume in Los Angeles with former Dodgers CEO’s testimony.

DISPPL launches new GSM-based security systems in India

Noida (Uttar Pradesh), Sept.20 (ANI-Business Wire India): ISPPL, A pioneer in banking security, has launch of a new GSM based Alarm system into the Indian banking security market.

Digitals India Security Products Pvt Ltd., No. 1 integrator in the banking security, has … Original source on Gaea Times at : DISPPL launches new GSM-based security systems in India.

Bomb scare disrupts train services in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Train services in the Kharagpur-Adra section in West Bengal were disrupted for over four hours Monday after a tiffin box fitted with wires was found on the railway tracks in West Midnapore district. No explosives were found in the tiffin box.

“Villagers noticed the tiffin box fitted with wires on the tracks at Atabandh …. Read the original article  : here.

Chinese automaker SAIC noncommittal on stake in General Motors’ IPO

China’s SAIC noncommittal on stake in GM IPO

SHANGHAI – Chinese automaker and General Motors Co. partner SAIC said Monday it is paying close attention to GM’s upcoming stock sale, but gave no hint over whether it plans to take a stake itself.
GM executives in the U.S. and China likewise refused comment on reports that the …. Source  : Chinese automaker SAIC noncommittal on stake in General Motors’ IPO.

From Havana to Harlem: Cuban minister says island needs support from African-American leaders

Cuban minister recalls NY Malcolm X-Castro meeting

NEW YORK – Fifty years after Malcolm X met with Fidel Castro in New York in the midst of the Cold War the Cuban people still rely on the support of African-Americans, Cuba’s foreign minister said.
Bruno Rodriguez spoke Sunday at an event commemorating the black civil rights leader’s September … Read this article on Gaea Times at : From Havana to Harlem: Cuban minister says island needs support from African-American leaders.

Water inflow into Himachal’s Pong dam rises again

SHIMLA – The inflow of water into Himachal Pradesh’s Pong dam again increased marginally Monday due to rainfall, but the authorities said there was no need for worry as the reservoir still has capacity to withhold additional water.

“The inflow increased this (Monday) morning to more than 18,000 cusecs against Sunday’s 8,000 cusecs,” K.C. Rana of … Original article on : Water inflow into Himachal’s Pong dam rises again.

Oil inches to near $74 as traders eye US economy, crude inventories

Oil inches to near $74 as traders eye US economy

SINGAPORE – Oil prices hovered below $74 a barrel Monday in Asia as traders look to indicators on the U.S. economy and crude inventories for clues about the strength of demand.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was up 27 cents to $73.93 a barrel at midday Singapore … Read more >>>.

Asian stock markets mixed after weak cue from Wall Street, trade subdued amid holidays

Asian markets subdued amid week of holidays

BANGKOK – Asian stock markets were mixed in subdued trading Monday amid a week punctuated by holidays in Japan and other major regional markets.
The lackluster start in Asia came after Wall Street gave up most of its gains on Friday to close slightly higher. The initial rise was triggered … Read more »»».

Custom chopper signed by Obama and Biden will be auctioned to benefit military families

Custom chopper signed by Obama to be auctioned

WASHINGTON – A custom-designed motorcycle signed by President Barack Obama will be auctioned in Las Vegas to support military families.
The United States Army Chopper bearing Obama’s signature, along with autographs from Vice President Joe Biden and national security adviser James Jones, will be auctioned by Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. …. Original source  : Custom chopper signed by Obama and Biden will be auctioned to benefit military families.

Money Market Operations as on Sep 17, 2010

…. Original source  : Money Market Operations as on Sep 17, 2010.

Peru police take back power plant seized by coca growers protesting crop eradication campaign

Peru cops take power plant back from coca growers

LIMA, Peru – Hundreds of coca growers briefly seized control of a power plant in Peru’s interior Sunday, cutting off electricity to the estimated 430,000 people who live in Ucayali province.
Police later moved in, arresting 120 people and freeing 30 employees who got the power on again …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Peru police take back power plant seized by coca growers protesting crop eradication campaign.

Protesting coca growers paralyze Peruvian power plant, demand end to crop eradication

Peru coca growers paralyze power plant
LIMA, Peru – Hundreds of coca growers in Peru have seized control of a thermoelectric plant in the country’s interior, cutting off electricity to the estimated 430,000 people who live in Ucayali province.

The provincial governor and the plant’s director of operations reported Sunday’s takeover of the facility at Aguaytia in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Protesting coca growers paralyze Peruvian power plant, demand end to crop eradication.

Treasury Department statement says foreign investors could be courted in GM stock sale

Government could seek foreign investors for GM

DETROIT – Investment bankers handling the upcoming General Motors Co. stock sale are expected to court foreign investors as well as those in North America, according to a U.S. Treasury Department statement.
GM and the Treasury Department would not comment Sunday on reports that the automaker is in talks with …. Read the original article  : here.

Swedish government loses majority in election as far-right group enters Parliament

Swedish gov’t loses majority as far-right surges

STOCKHOLM – A far-right party entered the Swedish Parliament for the first time in elections Sunday, spoiling the center-right government’s victory and majority, and plunging the country into political disarray, preliminary results showed.
Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt was seeking to become the first center-right leader to win re-election after serving …. Source article  : Swedish government loses majority in election as far-right group enters Parliament.

Tom Hicks looks to private equity help to keep hold of Liverpool, would share control

Hicks looks to private equity to keep Liverpool

LONDON – Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks is launching another bid to keep hold of the Premier League club by securing financing from a private equity company.
Hicks along with co-owner George Gillett Jr. had put the club up for sale in April, saying they lacked the funding to take …. Source  : Tom Hicks looks to private equity help to keep hold of Liverpool, would share control.

24/7: Major college football coaches work to balance stressful jobs with healthy living

College football coaches try balancing job, health

NEW YORK – Imagine if every decision you made at work was scrutinized by millions of people and your livelihood was essentially tied to the performance of a bunch of college students.
That’s the life of big-time college football head coaches such as Michigan State’s Mark Dantonio, who had a … Read more : 24/7: Major college football coaches work to balance stressful jobs with healthy living.

Suzlon Energy bags Rs.1,149 crore wind power order

NEW DELHI – India’s wind turbine manufacturing major Suzlon Energy Tuesday said it has won a 202 MW order from a Kolkata-based Techno Electric Group for Rs.1,149 crore ($251.69 million).

The order comprises 24 units of Suzlon’s S88 2.1 MW wind turbine generators (WTGs), 34 units of Suzlon’s S82 1.5 MW WTGs and 48 units …. Read the original article  : Suzlon Energy bags Rs.1,149 crore wind power order.

Hindustan Petroleum On A High

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd has plans to acquire oil blocks in the African countries as has been confirmed by Subir Roy Choudhari, the Managing Director and Chairman of the company. The company is in the process of securing oil blocks in countries like Egypt, Oman and Australia already. The information …. Read the original article  : Hindustan Petroleum On A High.

Amway India Focuses On Brand Building

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Amway is one of the companies that introduced and popularized the concept of direct selling in India. Initially the Indian buyers found the concept weird but over the last few years it has been able to establish a foothold in the FMCG market. The direct selling companies including Amway … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amway India Focuses On Brand Building.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Ellsworth tries to blame Coats for closed Ind. factory

POLITICAL INSIDER: Job loss fuels Ind. campaign

WABASH, Ind. – Democratic Senate hopeful Brad Ellsworth blamed his Republican rival’s one-time employer for sending 800 Indiana jobs to Canada and Mexico – a criticism he later acknowledged might not stick.
Ellsworth, a two-term House member from the southwest corner of the state, met with former employees and union …. Source  : POLITICAL INSIDER: Ellsworth tries to blame Coats for closed Ind. factory.

Foreign funds lift India’s Sensex above 20,000-point mark

MUMBAI – A benchmark index of Indian equities scaled the 20,000-point mark Tuesday, fuelled by some impressive buying by foreign funds and overall positive mood in other markets.

Soon after the opening bell, the 30-share sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) shot up to 20,088.96 points, the highest in 32 months. This was … Read more »»».

AP Investigation: As its value tanked, California’s pension fund awarded raises, bonuses

AP Investigation: CalPERS bumped pay as fund dived

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As its investment portfolio was losing nearly a quarter of its value, the country’s largest public pension fund doled out six-figure bonuses and substantial raises to its top employees, an analysis by The Associated Press has found.
Board member Tony Olivera said the California Public Employees’ … Read this article on Gaea Times at : AP Investigation: As its value tanked, California’s pension fund awarded raises, bonuses.

India, Brazil and South Africa get UN award

UNITED NATIONS – The India, Brazil and South Africa Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation (IBSA Fund) has received the 2010 UN Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Award for South-South Cooperation.

The award recognises the work of the three countries in using innovative approaches to share, replicate and scale up successful development experiences for combating poverty …. Read the original article  : India, Brazil and South Africa get UN award.

Asian markets advance after Dow logs highest close since May on hopes for Fed action

Asian shares rise amid hopes for Fed action

BANGKOK – Asian stock markets mostly advanced Tuesday as hopes for more action by the Federal Reserve to prop up the U.S. economy extended Wall Street’s rally into a fourth week.
As the Fed meets to discuss interest rates there is a growing expectation that the central bank’s rate-setting …. Source  : Asian markets advance after Dow logs highest close since May on hopes for Fed action.

India third most powerful nation: US report

WASHINGTON – India is listed as the third most powerful country in the world after the US and China and the fourth most powerful bloc after the US, China and the European Union in a new official US report.

The new global power lineup for 2010 also predicted that New Delhi’s clout in the world will …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India third most powerful nation: US report.

Fed wrestles with whether bolder action is needed to strengthen economy

Fed to ponder whether bolder action needed

WASHINGTON – Federal Reserve policymakers are wrestling with what additional steps – if any – should be taken to strengthen the plodding economy and drive down near double-digit unemployment.
Lots of lively debate is expected at Tuesday’s meeting. But few expect any major programs to be unveiled. Instead, many will …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oil slips to near $74 in Asia as traders look to Fed meeting for guidance on rates, growth

Oil slips to near $74 ahead of key Fed meeting

SINGAPORE – Oil prices slipped to near $74 a barrel Tuesday in Asia as traders looked to a key U.S. central bank meeting later in the day for possible new polices to help boost economic growth.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was down 53 cents to $74.33 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oil slips to near $74 in Asia as traders look to Fed meeting for guidance on rates, growth.

Chinese revel in new ‘home deliveries’

BEIJING – Even as winter is on its way in China, people are looking forward to the comfort of their homes and having some entertainment. Most of them plan to have Superman “delivered” at 1,000 yuan an hour or a pole dance tutor at 800 yuan.

While food, drink or shopping bags have been delivered to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chinese revel in new ‘home deliveries’.

George Steinbrenner honored with largest monument at Yankee Stadium

Yankees unveil monument to George Steinbrenner

NEW YORK – George Steinbrenner is now truly the biggest of the Yankees greats – as measured in Monument Park.
The colorful and combative owner was honored with the largest tribute in the team’s storied area of remembrance behind the center-field fence. His 7-by-5-foot, 760-pound monument of bronze atop a granite …. Source  : George Steinbrenner honored with largest monument at Yankee Stadium.

Fed wrestles with whether bolder action is needed to strengthen economy

Fed to ponder whether bolder action needed

WASHINGTON – Federal Reserve policymakers are wrestling with what additional steps – if any – should be taken to strengthen the plodding economy and drive down near double-digit unemployment.
Lots of lively debate is expected at Tuesday’s meeting. But few expect any major programs to be unveiled. Instead, many will … Read more »»».

Money Market Operations as on Sep 20, 2010

… Read more >>>.

Lindsay Lohan ends $100M NYC suit over E-Trade baby ad; said she was butt of ‘milkaholic’ joke

Lindsay Lohan ends NY lawsuit over E-Trade baby ad

NEW YORK – Lindsay Lohan’s $100 million lawsuit over an E-Trade television commercial is all over, baby.
A Manhattan court filing Monday said the actress has withdrawn her case against the brokerage, which she’d accused of making her the implied target of jokes about a “milkaholic” named Lindsay … Read more : Lindsay Lohan ends $100M NYC suit over E-Trade baby ad; said she was butt of ‘milkaholic’ joke.

Judge backs Minn. law requiring corporations, political groups to reveal donors and spending

Judge backs Minn. disclosure law on political cash

ST. PAUL, Minn. – A federal judge refused on Monday to interfere with a new Minnesota law that revealed political donations from Target Corp. and other companies, saying the public has an interest in knowing who speaks and who pays for those messages as the election approaches.
U.S. District …. Original article  : Judge backs Minn. law requiring corporations, political groups to reveal donors and spending.

Union, state of Illinois reach deal that could bar government layoffs for nearly 2 years

Union reaches deal with Ill. to avoid layoffs

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Gov. Pat Quinn has reached a deal with a major union that could save the Illinois government between $50 million and $100 million while barring layoffs of most state employees, both sides said Monday.
Under the agreement, the state won’t cut jobs or close institutions until …. Source  : Union, state of Illinois reach deal that could bar government layoffs for nearly 2 years.

Sanofi-Aventis reports positive blood sugar control for experimental diabetes drug

Sanofi reports positive results with diabetes drug

NEW YORK – Sanofi-Aventis said Monday that a study of its experimental diabetes drug showed better blood sugar control than placebo.
The study included 361 patients with type 2 diabetes who randomly received either lixisenatide, the company’s diabetes injectable, or a sham treatment. Lixisenatide is part of the new GLP-1 …. Read the original article  : here.

Ex-Hartford Whalers owner to take over business operations of Hartford AHL franchise

Ex-Whalers owner taking over Hartford AHL team

HARTFORD, Conn. – The former owner of the Hartford Whalers is taking control of business operations of the city’s minor league hockey team and renaming the franchise the Connecticut Whale.
Howard Baldwin announced on Monday his company, Hartford Hockey LLC., will be responsible for marketing, ticket sales and other day-to-day … Read more »».

Mumbai presents greatest potential for corporate air travel, hotel cost savings in 2011

GURGAON – The world’s fifth largest travel management company, Egencia, has said that India’s commercial capital Mumbai and the Australian city of Melbourne, offer the greatest potential for savings on corporate air travel and hotel bookings in 2011, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mumbai presents greatest potential for corporate air travel, hotel cost savings in 2011.

UN anti-poverty goals get financial pledges, but no certainty that 2015 targets will be met

UN anti-poverty goals get new financial pledges

UNITED NATIONS – A three-day summit to push global leaders to meet U.N. goals to significantly reduce poverty by 2015 wraps up Wednesday with new financial pledges from countries but no certainty there will be enough money and political commitment to meet the targets.
With many countries under financial pressure … Read more >>>.

Obama’s loss of top economic adviser could set stage for postelection changes

Obama’s top economic adviser leaving White House

WASHINGTON – The departure of President Barack Obama’s top economic adviser at the end of the year could provide the White House with an opportunity to revamp its economic team after the November elections, when voters are expected to take out their anxieties on Democrats.
The White House says Lawrence … Read : Obama’s loss of top economic adviser could set stage for postelection changes.

Starting Thursday: No lifetime cap, free preventive care among health law changes kicking in

Health law kicks into 2nd gear; does it help me?

CHICAGO – The nation’s new health care law turns 6 months old Thursday and starts delivering protections and dollars-and-cents benefits that Americans can grasp. But it won’t affect all consumers the same way, which may cause confusion.
Q: Will everyone’s health insurance change on Thursday?
A: No. It …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Weighed down by a struggling economy, Obama seeks to remind the world of busy foreign agenda

For Obama, time to remind the world of his agenda

WASHINGTON – Consumed by concerns at home, President Barack Obama turns back to the world stage this week, hoping to remind anyone listening of his efforts to reshape the image and diplomacy of the United States. Yet even this moment is shadowed by economic woes.
Obama’s trip … Read more >>>.

BlackBerry set to unveil tablet computer Monday

TORONTO – Though BlackBerry maker Research in Motion (RIM) is keeping mum, the Canadian company is expected to unveil its BlackPad tablet computer to rival Apple’s iPad Monday, according to media reports in North America.

The announcement is likely to be made at its developer’s conference in San Francisco.
Quoting people familiar with RIM’s plans, the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BlackBerry set to unveil tablet computer Monday.

Maximizer CRM 11 Entrepreneur and Team Editions Released in India

Bracknell (UK), Sept. 22 (ANI-Business Wire India): Maximizer Software – a leading provider of simple, accessible and affordable customer relationship management (CRM) systems – has launched new versions of its popular Maximizer CRM 11 Entrepreneur and Team Editions in India.

The new editions, which are available through local Maximizer business partners, are designed specifically for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wipro ranked as leader among testing services providers

Bangalore, Sept.22 (ANI-Business Wire India): Wipro Technologies, the global IT services business of Wipro Limited, announced that it has been cited by IDC Research Inc., an independent research firm, as a leader among Tier-1 Testing Services Providers in a July 2010 report titled “IDC MarketScape : Global Testing Services, 2010 Vendor Analysis”.

This study focuses on …. Original article  : Wipro ranked as leader among testing services providers.

Asian stock markets mixed as yen climbs after Fed meeting, drags on Nikkei

Asian stock markets mixed after Fed meeting

TOKYO – Asian stock markets were mixed in holiday-thinned Wednesday after the Federal Reserve indicated it is ready to do more to help the U.S. economy but stopped short of announcing specific measures.
The Fed said it is concerned that inflation is below levels consistent with a healthy economy and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Asian stock markets mixed as yen climbs after Fed meeting, drags on Nikkei.

India, US launch SME forum to create jobs

WASHINGTON – Ahead of US President Bartack Obama’s November visit to India, the two countries have launched a Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Forum to help generate new jobs and investments and spur economic growth.

The inaugural meeting focused on “Integrating SMEs into the US-India Value Chain” was hosted here Tuesday by the US-India Business Council … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, US launch SME forum to create jobs.

Asian stock markets mostly post modest gains after Fed says ready to help economy

Asian stocks post modest gains after Fed meeting

TOKYO – Asian stock markets posted modest gains in holiday-thinned trade Wednesday after the Federal Reserve indicated it is ready to do more to help the U.S. economy but stopped short of announcing specific measures.
The Fed said it is concerned that inflation is below levels consistent with a …. Original source  : Asian stock markets mostly post modest gains after Fed says ready to help economy.

Gandhinagar solar power project gets IFC help

WASHINGTON – The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is working on a public-private partnership deal with India’s Gujarat state to design and structure a distributed rooftop solar power project in Gandhinagar. The project will be the first of its kind in India.

The pilot project for the 5-megawatt solar installation is expected to reduce greenhouse gas …. Source article  : Gandhinagar solar power project gets IFC help.

India, US vow to end trade row before Obama visit

WASHINGTON – India and the US have pledged to work together to boost trade ties while redoubling efforts to resolve several issues of concern, including visa and outsourcing issues, before President Barack Obama’s November visit.

A joint statement issued after a meeting of Indo-US Trade Policy Forum, co-chaired by Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry Anand … Read more : India, US vow to end trade row before Obama visit.

Sensex moves up 80 points in morning trade

MUMBAI – A benchmark index of Indian equities Wednesday moved up further after scaling the 20,000-point mark in the previous session.

Soon after the opening bell, the 30-share sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 20,039.43, was up 64.57 points or 0.32 percent at 20,066.12 points, from its previous close at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sensex moves up 80 points in morning trade.

US, India pledge closer trade ties

WASHINGTON – The US and India Tuesday pledged to work together to boost trade ties ahead of President Barack Obama’s first visit to the Asian power next month.

Following a meeting in Washington between US Trade Representative Ron Kirk and Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry Anand Sharma, the two sides in a joint statement said …. Original source  : US, India pledge closer trade ties.

Money Market Operations as on Sep 21, 2010

…. Read the original article  : here.

CEO Kavanaugh: Relativity Media to exceed $2 billion in revenue this year; profit up 4-5 times

CEO: Relativity Media to exceed $2B in revenue

LOS ANGELES – Privately held film financier Relativity Media will bring in more than $2 billion in revenue for the first time this year, its CEO Ryan Kavanaugh said Tuesday.
The news comes as major movie studios are slashing costs and producing fewer movies as the industry is buffeted … Original source on Gaea Times at : CEO Kavanaugh: Relativity Media to exceed $2 billion in revenue this year; profit up 4-5 times.

In a tough economic time, Finchem says going forward means not going backward

Finchem pleased golf not losing ground
ATLANTA – PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem expects three or four tournaments to be without a title sponsor going into the 2011 season, although he said the tour has no plans to subsidize them.

Finchem painted an optimistic picture Tuesday of the tour, noting its cumulative TV audience – number of …. Source  : In a tough economic time, Finchem says going forward means not going backward.

World’s oldest man to mark 114th birthday in US with invitation-only celebration

World’s oldest man marks 114th birthday in US

GREAT FALLS, Montana – A Montana resident believed to be the world’s oldest man celebrated his 114th birthday Tuesday at a retirement home in Great Falls.
Walter Breuning was born on Sept. 21, 1896, in Melrose, Minnesota, and moved to Montana in 1918, where he worked as a clerk … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : World’s oldest man to mark 114th birthday in US with invitation-only celebration.

Nebraska to lose $9 million in Big 12 distributions as penalty for leaving for Big Ten

Move to Big Ten costs Nebraska $9M
LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska’s departure from the Big 12 Conference will cost the university more than $9 million.

The Big 12 and the university announced a settlement on Tuesday in which the conference will withhold $9.255 million in conference distributions rather than the estimated $19.4 million the Big 12 had …. Source article  : Nebraska to lose $9 million in Big 12 distributions as penalty for leaving for Big Ten.

L&T forms JV for power transmission in South Africa

NEW DELHI – Larsen and Toubro (L&T) has signed a shareholders agreements with South Africa-based Befula Investments to form a joint venture company, Larsen and Turbo T&D SA (Pty) Ltd, to tap power transmission and distribution opportunities in that country.

South Africa, despite having an installed capacity close to 44,000 MW, is facing a severe peak … Read more : L&T forms JV for power transmission in South Africa.

Volkswagen to build new engine plant in Mexico

Mexico City, Sep 23 (IANS/EFE) German automaker Volkswagen said Wednesday it plans to build a $550 million plant with annual production capacity of 330,000 engines in the central Mexican state of Guanajuato.

During an event at the Mexican presidential residence of Los Pinos, the company said the new engine plant will be located at the Puerto … Original source on Gaea Times at : Volkswagen to build new engine plant in Mexico.

Whitman compares economically depressed Fresno to Detroit, draws criticism from state senator

Whitman compares economy in Fresno to Detroit

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Republican gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman says Fresno is a lot like Detroit, making the comparison in the context of what the recession has done to one of California’s largest cities.
Whitman made the comparison during an editorial board meeting with the San Jose Mercury News, which published … Original source on Gaea Times at : Whitman compares economically depressed Fresno to Detroit, draws criticism from state senator.

Forbes 400: Bill Gates Maintains #1 Spot

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The latest Forbes 400 of the richest people in America shows that Bill Gates is still the richest man in the world with a total worth of $54billion. Warren Buffet follows the Microsoft co-founder on the list with #45billion. Among some of surprises on the list is Mark Zuckerberg who has … Original source on Gaea Times at : Forbes 400: Bill Gates Maintains #1 Spot.

Regulators approve new western North Dakota oil pipeline, say it should ease truck traffic

Regulators approve new oil pipeline in western ND

BISMARCK, N.D. – A new oil pipeline through three western North Dakota counties will help deliver crude to at least three regional markets and will reduce truck traffic on the region’s roads, state regulators said Wednesday.
North Dakota’s Public Service Commission endorsed a route for the 12-inch pipeline, which … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Regulators approve new western North Dakota oil pipeline, say it should ease truck traffic.

Similac Recall By Abbot Laboratories Hits Parents

NORTH CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- Parents of infants in many countries got a shock on Wednesday when Abbot Laboratories Inc.went on to recall millions of its Similac-brand formulas for infants from the market. The company that announced the recall on Wednesday held that it was voluntarily recalling Similac powdered infant formulas from the market after …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Similac Recall By Abbot Laboratories Hits Parents.

A Profile of Banks 2009-10

The Reserve Bank of India has, today, placed on its website "A Profile of Banks 2009-10 (rbi.org.in/scripts/AnnualPublications.aspx?head=A Profile of Banks) ". The publication, “A Profile of Banks 2009-10”,the  sixth volume in the series, provides a  bank-wise and bank group-wise information on important performance indicators of all scheduled commercial banks, excluding [..] Read the original article: here.

Family planning adversely affecting Shanghai growth

SHANGHAI – Shanghai, China’s commercial capital, has avoided the birth of about seven million children in the past 30 years because of its family-planning policy which has now adversely affected the city and left it with a majority elderly population.

Shanghai had only 1.17 million registered children aged 14 or younger in 2009.
If the … Read more : Family planning adversely affecting Shanghai growth.

India asks rich nations to keep their promises to spur growth

UNITED NATIONS – India has called upon rich nations to urgently fulfil their commitment to provide more funds, transfer technology and undertake capacity building in developing countries to spur international development.

“The lack of progress on building a robust global partnership needs to be urgently addressed,” Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said while addressing a … Read more : India asks rich nations to keep their promises to spur growth.

Bills vote in favor of allowing NFL Players Association to decertify in event of lockout

Bills players back NFLPA in decertification vote

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. – Buffalo Bills players became at least the fifth NFL team to vote in favor of giving the NFL Players Association the right to decertify in the event of a lockout next year.
Bills union representative safety George Wilson said the vote was unanimous and held after … Read more : Bills vote in favor of allowing NFL Players Association to decertify in event of lockout.

Ahead of Obama meeting, Chinese premier plays down differences with US

China seeks to play down differences with US

NEW YORK – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao expressed optimism Wednesday that the United States and China would resolve major trade frictions, even as he rejected U.S. claims that Beijing’s currency policies cost American jobs.
Despite sometimes tough words, Wen used much of a speech on the sidelines of a …. Source article  : Ahead of Obama meeting, Chinese premier plays down differences with US.

IHS fiscal 3rd-quarter earnings slightly below year-ago on charge, revenue grows 14 percent

IHS 3Q earnings slightly below year-ago results

ENGLESWOOD, Colo. – IHS Inc. posted third-quarter earnings late Wednesday that were slightly below its year-ago results, despite a solid revenue increase.
The Englewood, Colo., consulting company reported net income of $34.6 million, or 53 cents per share, on $272.1 million in revenue for the three months ended Aug 31. [..] Read the original article: here.

Democrat in Conn. US Senate race, unions take aim at McMahon’s management of wrestling empire

Dem, unions bash McMahon, WWE in Conn. Senate race

HARTFORD, Conn. – Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Richard Blumenthal and his supporters in organized labor united Wednesday to heap criticism on Republican Linda McMahon and how she has run her Connecticut-based professional wrestling empire.
At one news conference, Blumenthal, the state’s attorney general, mentioned how McMahon “took home” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Democrat in Conn. US Senate race, unions take aim at McMahon’s management of wrestling empire.

Egg company heads give Congress few answers on what led to salmonella outbreak

Egg company heads give Congress few answers

WASHINGTON – The heads of two Iowa egg farms linked to as many as 1,600 salmonella illnesses this summer gave Congress few answers in testimony about the conditions at their farms Wednesday, as one executive would not testify and the other did not answer many of the lawmakers’ questions.
The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Egg company heads give Congress few answers on what led to salmonella outbreak.

Summary Box: Forbes looks to harness ‘entrepreneurial’ journalism with a redesign

Summary Box: Forbes undergoes radical overhaul

THE NEWS: Forbes magazine is launching redesigned print and Web editions this week.
THE BACKGROUND: Declining print advertising rates is draining profits from Forbes and the magazine industry as a whole.
THE STRATEGY: The magazine is building a vast network of bloggers who are expected to build their own personal audience and …. Original article  : Summary Box: Forbes looks to harness ‘entrepreneurial’ journalism with a redesign.

DineEquity, parent of Applebee’s and IHOP, says sales in 3rd quarter trending up

Applebee’s, IHOP parent 3Q sales trending higher

GLENDALE, Calif. – DineEquity Inc. the parent company of Applebee’s and IHOP restaurants, on Wednesday said its third-quarter sales are trending higher in both chains.
For the first 11 weeks of the 12-week period, revenue at Applebee’s restaurants open at least a year increased 2.7 percent over last year, the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : DineEquity, parent of Applebee’s and IHOP, says sales in 3rd quarter trending up.

The Fed worries about something unusual: Inflation may actually be too low

Unusual worry for economy: Is inflation too low?

WASHINGTON – It might seem like prices are rising wherever you look, from medical care to college tuition. Yet to the Federal Reserve, they might not be going up fast enough.
The Fed says a little more inflation might be just the thing to start a chain reaction that …. Original source  : The Fed worries about something unusual: Inflation may actually be too low.

Blockbuster soon to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, according to reports

Report: Blockbuster Ch. 11 filing likely soon

NEW YORK – Troubled video-rental chain Blockbuster Inc. is planning to file for Chapter 11 reorganization any day now, according to published reports.
Citing sources with knowledge of the situation that it did not name, the Wall Street Journal says Blockbuster is working with creditors to develop a restructuring plan … Original article on : Blockbuster soon to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, according to reports.

BioMed Realty Trust begins 13.5 million share sale; to help cover acquisitions, debt payments

BioMed to sell 13.5M shares to fund acquisitions

SAN DIEGO – BioMed Realty Trust Inc. on Wednesday said it is selling 13.5 million shares of common stock.
The real estate investment trust, which focuses on locations for biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies and scientific research facilities, said it plans to use the proceeds of the offering to partly … Original article on : BioMed Realty Trust begins 13.5 million share sale; to help cover acquisitions, debt payments.

Starbucks to raise prices on big, labor-intensive drinks as raw coffee prices rise

Starbucks plans price increases on some drinks

Starbucks customers will soon get a jolt before any caffeine touches their lips. The world’s biggest cafe chain is raising prices.
Raw coffee prices have been rising. Starbucks said on Wednesday that it has absorbed the higher prices until now, but no more. It said the price increases will be …. Read the original article  : Starbucks to raise prices on big, labor-intensive drinks as raw coffee prices rise.

Attorneys switch gears in McCourt case and will discuss possible settlement

Settlement talks Friday in McCourt divorce case

LOS ANGELES – Attorneys in the divorce trial of Jamie and Frank McCourt will now focus on negotiating a possible settlement starting Friday after nine days of sometimes contentious testimony that could determine future ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Lawyers on both sides are scheduled to meet in a … Read more »».

Financial Technologies Shares Stumble

MUMBAI, INDIA (Gaea Times.com) – The shares of Financial Technologies had their worst decline in two years and their biggest one day drop after SEBI (Securities & Exchange Board Of India) rejected the application of MCX-SX (Multi Commodity Exchange- Stock Exchange) to operate an equity exchange. SEBI alleged that the two promoters MCX (Multi Commodity … Read more >>.

Energy industry officials say they need more than an hour to report oil spills, gas leaks

Energy officials: Time needed to report incidents

WASHINGTON – A bill that would require pipeline operators to report oil spills, gas leaks and other incidents within one hour doesn’t provide enough time, energy industry officials said Thursday.
The industry is under scrutiny after a natural gas explosion in California this month that killed seven people and destroyed …. Source  : Energy industry officials say they need more than an hour to report oil spills, gas leaks.

Asian stock markets fall after European slump, Wall Street succumbs to US job worries

Asian shares slide after disappointing US job news

TOKYO – Asian stock markets fell Friday after a jump in U.S. unemployment claims led to a disappointing day on Wall Street.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average lost 1.3 percent to 9,443.57 in broad-based declines. A strong yen kept pressure on exporters like automakers. Japanese financial markets were closed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Asian stock markets fall after European slump, Wall Street succumbs to US job worries.

Mahindra Satyam Stock Price Depends On Financial Results

MUMBAI, INDIA (Gaea Times.com) – Mahindra Satyam stock price has declined by 1.46% after having risen for three consecutive sessions. The shares rose by 16% this week and 33% this month but this bullish trend seems to have been temporarily paused with a slight fall. This small fall in the shares is not of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mahindra Satyam Stock Price Depends On Financial Results.

Money fund assets fell by $10.63 billion to $2.803 trillion in latest week

Money fund assets fell to $2.803T in latest week

NEW YORK – Total money market mutual fund assets fell $10.63 billion to $2.803 trillion for the week, the Investment Company Institute said Thursday.
Assets of the nation’s retail money market mutual funds fell $6.36 billion in the latest week to $958.21 billion.
Assets of taxable money market funds … Read more >>>.

UN session seeks to kick-start ’sleeping conference’ and cut off nuclear bomb material

UN session seeks to kick-start stalled nuke talks

UNITED NATIONS – Moving quickly on a treaty to shut down all production of uranium and plutonium for atomic bombs is an “essential step” toward global nuclear disarmament, says a new coalition of nuclear-activist nations.
Negotiations for the long-proposed Fissile Material Cutoff Treaty, blocked by Pakistan at the Conference … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UN session seeks to kick-start ’sleeping conference’ and cut off nuclear bomb material.

M.F. Husain’s poem in his own hand on sale

NEW DELHI – A rare handwritten Hindi poem by artist M.F. Husain, “Mere Dil ki Dhadkan…(The beat of my heart)”, is one of the prized pieces at an exhibition of art, “Weaving Legacy 10″ here, and it is on sale.

The poem, composed in a stylised manner with accompanying line drawings and doodles on four …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : M.F. Husain’s poem in his own hand on sale.

African Union appeals for funds to increase AU force in Somalia from 8,000 to 20,000

Africans seek funds to increase Somali force

UNITED NATIONS – The African Union appealed for funds to increase its force in conflict-wracked Somalia from the current 8,000 ceiling to 20,000.
AU executive chairman Jean Ping said after a ministerial mini-summit on Somalia that Uganda is ready to provide the troops to increase the force, but money is … Read : African Union appeals for funds to increase AU force in Somalia from 8,000 to 20,000.

Train services resume on Kalka-Shimla track

SHIMLA – Train services resumed on the Kalka-Shimla railway line Friday morning, a day after massive landslides in Himachal Pradesh snapped traffic, an official said here.

“The to and fro traffic between Shimla and Kalka was restored. All trains would operate as per their scheduled timing,” station superintendent G.S. Rajput told IANS.
He said traffic remained … Read : Train services resume on Kalka-Shimla track.

India-Canada trade to triple in five years: Anand Sharma

TORONTO – India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Ananda Sharma said here Thursday that his country’s “strategic partnership” with Canada will triple bilateral trade in the next five years to $15 billion.

Sharma, who is here with a high-powered delegation of business and industry leaders to further “strategic dialogue” between the two countries, said there was an … Read more : India-Canada trade to triple in five years: Anand Sharma.

Indian IT firms will consolidate, focus on Europe, Asia-Pacific

NEW DELHI – The Indian information technology sector is likely to witness heavy consolidation in the coming months as mid-size companies struggle to sustain growth amid a rising anti-outsourcing tirade in the United States.

“We expect many mergers and takeovers in the IT sector. It will be among Indian companies and also overseas deals. This is … Original article on : Indian IT firms will consolidate, focus on Europe, Asia-Pacific.

Economy improving, says Spanish premier

New York, Sep 24 (IANS/EFE) Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero has said that Spain’s housing prices have bottomed out and that the nation’s economy will continue to improve.

“The price of housing has touched bottom and won’t fall any more,” Zapatero told CNBC anchor Maria Bartiromo.
“In fact, over the last two or three months, …. Original source  : Economy improving, says Spanish premier.

Hyundai i10 New Model Unveiled

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Hyundai Motor India Limited which is one of the leading car makers in India has recently unveiled the refreshed version of its flagship compact car i10. The new hatchback has got a facelift and comes with a number of exciting new features. The move on part of Hyundai is predictable since …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hyundai i10 New Model Unveiled.

Brazil’s state-run oil company Petrobras raises $70B in world’s largest share offering

Petrobras raises $70B in biggest share offer

SAO PAULO – Brazil’s state-run oil company raised $70 billion in the world’s largest share offering, proceeds that will be used to tap some of the largest oil reserves discovered in decades.
Despite concerns about a growing government role in Petroleo Brasileiro SA, or Petrobras, investors showed extremely strong demand …. Read the original article  : here.

Brazil oil company Petrobras aims at offshore reserves with $70B stock offer, world’s largest

Petrobras raises $70B in offer, world’s largest

SAO PAULO – The exploration and production of Brazil’s massive offshore oil reserves is the driving force behind the globe’s biggest share offering ever, as the South American nation’s state-run energy company raised $70 billion.
Getting to the reserves – some of the largest finds in decades – will require …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Japan intervenes in currency market to weaken strong yen for 2nd time in just over a week

Japan intervenes in market again to weaken yen

TOKYO – Traders said the Bank of Japan intervened in the currency market to weaken the yen Friday for the second time in just over a week.
In early afternoon trading Friday in Tokyo, the dollar jumped suddenly from mid-84 yen to as high as 85.38 yen.
“It appears that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Japan intervenes in currency market to weaken strong yen for 2nd time in just over a week.

Campbell board declares dividend of 27.5 cents per share, payable Nov. 1 to shareholders

Campbell OKs dividend of 27.5 cents per share

CAMDEN, N.J. – Campbell Soup Co. said Thursday its board of directors approved a cash dividend of 27.5 cents per common share.
The soup maker will pay the dividend on Nov. 1 to shareholders of record on Oct. 12.
Shares of Campbell fell 20 cents to $36.33 in afternoon trading … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Campbell board declares dividend of 27.5 cents per share, payable Nov. 1 to shareholders.

Democratic Party of Wisconsin criticizes Johnson, claiming he got job because of federal grant

Democrats criticize Johnson for federal grant

MILWAUKEE – The Democratic Party of Wisconsin is criticizing Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ron Johnson for criticizing the federal stimulus bill, claiming a federal grant may have helped him get his job.
Johnson has been critical of his Democrat opponent Sen. Russ Feingold, who voted for the stimulus.
The Democratic party released … Read more >>>.

Warren Buffett says economy still in recession, because most people still worse than before

Buffett: Recession continues, by his definition

OMAHA, Neb. – Billionaire Warren Buffett says the economy remains in a recession, by his definition, because most people and businesses still aren’t doing as well as they were before the financial crisis.
Buffett talked about the economy and his Berkshire Hathaway Inc. businesses in an interview that aired Thursday on …. Source  : Warren Buffett says economy still in recession, because most people still worse than before.

Regulators shut small banks in Florida, Washington to bring US bank failures this year to 127

Regulators shut banks in Florida, Washington state

WASHINGTON – Regulators on Friday shut down small banks in Florida and Washington state, bringing to 127 the number of U.S. bank failures this year on a wave of loan defaults and economic distress.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over Haven Trust Bank Florida of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., … Original source on Gaea Times at : Regulators shut small banks in Florida, Washington to bring US bank failures this year to 127.

FDA approves Bayer oral contraceptive Beyaz with folate supplement

FDA approves oral contraceptive Beyaz with folate

SAN FRANCISCO – The Food and Drug Administration approved an oral contraceptive Friday from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. that includes a folate supplement.
The FDA approved Beyaz to prevent pregnancy and to treat moderate acne in females who are 14 or older and symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder for those … Original article on : FDA approves Bayer oral contraceptive Beyaz with folate supplement.

David Beckham sues In Touch magazine publisher over claims he cheated on wife with hookers

Beckham sues publisher over prostitute claims

LOS ANGELES – Lawyers for David Beckham have filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles alleging that a magazine knowingly published false claims that the soccer superstar had sex with prostitutes.
The suit filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court accuses Delaware-based Bauer Publishing Company LP and its affiliates of libel, slander …. Original article  : David Beckham sues In Touch magazine publisher over claims he cheated on wife with hookers.

Japan releases Chinese captain in territorial dispute; China demands apology

Japan releases Chinese boat captain amid dispute

BEIJING – China demanded an apology and compensation from Japan on Saturday after it released a Chinese fishing boat captain held more than two weeks after a collision near disputed islands that has triggered the worst spat between the Asian neighbors in years.
Japanese authorities released Zhan Qixiong, 41, early …. Read the original article  : Japan releases Chinese captain in territorial dispute; China demands apology.

Bernanke says Federal Reserve’s efforts to aid economy, lower unemployment have fallen short

Fed boss says plodding economy still needs help

WASHINGTON – The economy is recovering from a deep recession more slowly than anticipated and still needs help from the Federal Reserve, Chairman Ben Bernanke said Friday.
The Fed’s efforts to pump up the economy and lower unemployment have fallen short, Bernanke indicated in remarks at a conference at … Read more >>.

Negotiations end for the day in McCourt divorce case that could determine Dodger ownership

Mediation ends for the day in McCourt divorce case

LOS ANGELES – Negotiations have ended for the day in the divorce case of Jamie and Frank McCourt that could determine future ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Both sides met all day Friday in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom before Superior Court Judge Peter Lichtman.
Court spokesman Allan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Negotiations end for the day in McCourt divorce case that could determine Dodger ownership.

Citi’s Pandit will work for $1 in 2010 too

WASHINGTON – Citigroup’s India-born CEO Vikram Pandit has decided to work for just $1 for the second year in a row.

Pandit, who has restored the ailing banking giant to profitability and brought it mostly out from under strict government scrutiny after a $45 billion rescue during the financial crisis, told the Citi board … Read : Citi’s Pandit will work for $1 in 2010 too.

Summary Box: House panel clears bill targeting countries engaging in currency manipulation

Summary Box: China targeted in currency bill

CHINA CURRENCY: The House Ways and Means Committee approves a bill that would give the government the power to impose economic sanctions on China and other countries found to be manipulating their currencies to gain trade advantages.
YUAN VALUE: American manufacturers contend the Chinese yuan is undervalued by as much …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Los Angeles judge hears claims over who owns enormous emerald discovered in Brazil

LA judge weighs ownership of gigantic emerald

LOS ANGELES – One of several people claiming ownership of an 840-pound emerald has told a judge he paid for the behemoth gem shortly after it was unearthed in Brazil.
Anthony Thomas took the stand in a Los Angeles courtroom Friday and was questioned by lawyers for other people claiming … Read more : Los Angeles judge hears claims over who owns enormous emerald discovered in Brazil.

Health insurer rule draft yields few surprises on Wall Street

Health insurer rule draft yields few surprises

INDIANAPOLIS – The framework for a key health care reform rule governing insurance companies wound up falling mostly in line with Wall Street expectations, according to a Leerink Swann analyst.
A draft of the rule for medical loss ratios was released Thursday by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
Starting next … Read more »»».

Mass. Sen. Brown headlines Pa. GOP Senate fundraiser; Dem foe calls his opponent extremist

Mass. Sen. Brown headlines Pa. Senate fundraiser

PHILADELPHIA – Pennsylvania’s Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, Pat Toomey, continued his efforts to appeal to moderates with a visit Friday from Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown, a tea party favorite until a centrist voting streak turned many former supporters against him.
Brown, headliner for a Toomey fundraiser at a posh …. Source  : Mass. Sen. Brown headlines Pa. GOP Senate fundraiser; Dem foe calls his opponent extremist.

Obama meets with Southeast Asian leaders to discuss territorial disputes with China, trade

Obama meets with Southeast Asian leaders
NEW YORK – U.S. President Barack Obama and Southeast Asian leaders met Friday to discuss territorial disputes with China and a fast-growing trade relationship, with Obama pledging to take a strong role in regional affairs.

The meeting took place at a time of friction between China, the other superpower in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama meets with Southeast Asian leaders to discuss territorial disputes with China, trade.

Morgans Hotel Group: Federal lawsuit against Vegas casino over Hard Rock moniker without merit

Morgans: Lawsuit over Hard Rock name without merit

LAS VEGAS – Owners of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas say a federal lawsuit from the owners of the Hard Rock Cafe chain over their shared moniker is without merit.
Morgans Hotel Group Co. spokeswoman Jennifer Foley on Friday declined further comment on the restaurant … Read more >>>.

Gov’t seizes 3 failing wholesale credit unions; will resell $50 billion of toxic bonds

Gov’t seizes 3 failing wholesale credit unions

WASHINGTON – Federal regulators took over three key lenders to U.S. credit unions, after losses on mortgage investments threatened to topple them. The move was a reminder that parts of the financial system are still burdened by the toxic assets two years after the financial crisis peaked.
The National Credit …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gov’t seizes 3 failing wholesale credit unions; will resell $50 billion of toxic bonds.

Obama and Southeast Asian leaders call for freedom of navigation in South China Sea

Obama, SEast Asian leaders urge free navigation

NEW YORK – U.S. President Barack Obama and Southeast Asian leaders sent China a firm message Friday over territorial disputes between Beijing and its neighbors, calling for freedom of navigation in seas that China claims as its own.
Obama pledged to take a strong role in regional affairs, something welcomed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama and Southeast Asian leaders call for freedom of navigation in South China Sea.

Judge to approve $75M Citigroup settlement once bank adds assurances against future actions

Judge ready to approve $75M Citigroup settlement

WASHINGTON – A federal judge said Friday that she plans to approve the government’s $75 million settlement with Citigroup Inc. over charges it misled investors about billions in potential losses from subprime mortgages.
U.S. District Court Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle said she first wants assurances that Citigroup will maintain new … Original article on : Judge to approve $75M Citigroup settlement once bank adds assurances against future actions.

Analyst cuts estimates for Clorox after auto unit sale, but says deal makes sense for future

Analyst cuts Clorox estimates after auto unit sale

NEW YORK – Clorox Co. will make less money in fiscal 2011 because of the sale of its auto care products, but the deal makes sense for the company in the long-term, an analyst said Friday.
THE OPINION: Barclays Capital analyst Lauren Lieberman cut estimates for fiscal 2011 to … Read more : Analyst cuts estimates for Clorox after auto unit sale, but says deal makes sense for future.

Grains futures jump on Chicago Board of Trade; beef, pork futures trade mixed

Grains futures jump, livestock prices trade mixed

CHICAGO – Grain futures rose Friday on the Chicago Board of Trade.
Wheat for December delivery jumped 22.75 cents to $7.20 a bushel; December corn soared 22.5 cents to $5.2175 bushel; December oats added 14 cents to $3.52 a bushel; while soybeans for November delivery gained 32.5 cents to $11.26 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Grains futures jump on Chicago Board of Trade; beef, pork futures trade mixed.

AP-GfK Poll: Both parties disliked, Democrats struggle to overcome election enthusiasm gap

AP-GfK Poll: GOP more fired up as elections near

WASHINGTON – A political enthusiasm gap is helping Republicans in their effort to roll up big gains in the congressional elections. GOP supporters are a lot more interested in getting their party’s candidates elected than Democrats are in electing theirs, a new AP-GfK poll shows.
Democrats struggling to …. Original source  : AP-GfK Poll: Both parties disliked, Democrats struggle to overcome election enthusiasm gap.

Summary Box: Treasury prices slip after government reports some equipment orders rose.

Summary Box: Treasurys drop as durable orders rise

DURABLE BUMP: Bond prices fell after a suprise jump in durable goods orders.
TREASURY RATES: The 10 year note’s yield moved up to 2.61 percent, compared with 2.55 percent late Thursday.
THE FED BUYS: The Federal Reserve announced another purchase of Treasurys on Friday: $3.89 billion in bonds, bought with …. Source  : Summary Box: Treasury prices slip after government reports some equipment orders rose..

Tomato prices to shoot up as rains hit yield in Himachal

SHIMLA – Tomatoes are going to drill a hole in consumers’ pockets in north India in the coming months as incessant rains have destroyed at least 60 percent of the crop in Himachal Pradesh.

Trade representatives said 60-70 percent of the crop in the state had perished, pushing up prices in north Indian cities.
“More than …. Original article  : Tomato prices to shoot up as rains hit yield in Himachal.

Bangladesh discovers gas field with huge reserves

DHAKA – A new gas field with a possibility of a two to three trillion cubic feet (tcf) reserve has been found in Bangladesh, an official said.

The gas structure in the Sunamganj-Netrakona districts of the northeastern region has been discovered by the state-run Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration Company (Bapex).
The company is preparing to drill …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Umps monitoring balls at Coors Field after Giants raise concern about ‘juiced’ balls with MLB

Giants concerned about Rockies using juiced balls

DENVER – Umpires are keeping a close eye on game balls at Coors Field after the San Francisco Giants expressed concern to the commissioner’s office that the Colorado Rockies might be using “juiced” balls when they’re batting.
Major League Baseball spokesman Pat Courtney confirmed that umpires were instructed to monitor … Read : Umps monitoring balls at Coors Field after Giants raise concern about ‘juiced’ balls with MLB.

Delhi Metro to reserve coach for women from Oct 2

NEW DELHI – One coach in all Delhi Metro trains will be reserved for women from Oct 2 in order to decongest the bogies.

The reserved ladies’ coach will be the first after the driver’s cab in every train. Children up to 12 years, accompanied by women passengers, will also be allowed to travel in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi Metro to reserve coach for women from Oct 2.

Systems crash strands thousands at Australia airports

SYDNEY – Thousands of Virgin Blue passengers in Australia were stranded at airports across the country after the airline’s check-in system crashed Sunday morning.

The check-in system crashed just after 8 a.m., sending travel plans into chaos with some flights cancelled, Sydney Morning Herald reported.
“We’ve been advised the cause is an external supplier’s hardware …. Source article  : Systems crash strands thousands at Australia airports.

Balmer Lawrie plans four multi-modal logistics hub

KOLKATA – State-owned diversified conglomerate Balmer Lawrie is planning to set up four multi-modal logistics hub in the country in four zones — east, west, north and south, a top official said here.

“We are planning to set up a multi-modal logistics hub in Vizag (Vishakhapatnam) and eventually in other parts of the country. We have …. Source  : Balmer Lawrie plans four multi-modal logistics hub.

Art treasures of the failed bank Lehman Brothers auctioned off in NYC

Lehman Brothers art auctioned off in NYC
NEW YORK – Lehman Brothers may have blundered its way to disaster on Wall Street, but at least the bank’s art curators knew what they were doing.

Sotheby’s says an auction of contemporary artworks held by the failed investment firm and its former subsidiary, Neuberger Berman, brought in nearly $12.3 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Art treasures of the failed bank Lehman Brothers auctioned off in NYC.

AIG expects Asian unit to make more than $2 billion this year

AIG says AIA will make more than $2B this year

NEW YORK – American International Group Inc. says the Asian life insurance unit it plans to spin off will make an operating profit of at least $2 billion this fiscal year.
AIG disclosed the forecast for AIA Group on Saturday. AIA reported pretax profit of $1.3 billion … Original article on : AIG expects Asian unit to make more than $2 billion this year.

Egypt minister appointed World Bank Managing Director

Cairo, Sep 26 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Egyptian Investment Minister Mahmoud Mohieldin resigned from the government to become Managing Director of the World Bank, Egypt’s official news agency MENA reported.

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak accepted the resignation Saturday.
Industry and Trade Minister Rashid Mohammed Rashid has been appointed as the acting investment minister. He will also retain his …. Source article  : Egypt minister appointed World Bank Managing Director.

Palestinian leader says Israel must choose between peace or continuation of settlements

Abbas says settlements block Mideast peace deal

UNITED NATIONS – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Saturday there will be no peace deal with Israel unless the Jewish state stops settlement construction in areas the Palestinians claim for their future state.
“Israel must choose between peace and the continuation of settlements,” Abbas said in his address to the …. Original source  : Palestinian leader says Israel must choose between peace or continuation of settlements.

In Minn. governor’s race, polarized parties create opening for candidate from party of Ventura

Polarized Minn. gov. race leaves opening for indie

MINNEAPOLIS – An independent candidate for Minnesota governor hoping to follow in Jesse Ventura’s footsteps is showing surprising strength in a race against a Democrat and a Republican at polar ends of the political spectrum.
Tom Horner, a moderate former Republican and savvy public relations operative, hopes to harness …. Original source  : In Minn. governor’s race, polarized parties create opening for candidate from party of Ventura.

AP Poll: Americans who want health law to go further outnumber those who want govt to stay out

AP Poll: Many think health overhaul should do more

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul has divided the nation, and Republicans believe their call for repeal will help them win elections in November. But the picture’s not that clear cut.
A new AP poll finds that Americans who think the law should have done more …. Read the original article  : here.

Indiana Democrat in Senate race faces a tough go amid a bad economy and little money for TV

Money, economy hobble Democrat in Ind. Senate race

WABASH, Ind. – Democrat Brad Ellsworth had just leveled an attack – one he acknowledged was incomplete at best – against his Republican rival for the open Senate seat in Indiana when he asked reporters what they wanted to know.
“When are you going back on TV?” came the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indiana Democrat in Senate race faces a tough go amid a bad economy and little money for TV.

Some see Clinton’s campaign appearance for Barney Frank as sign Mass. Democrat is vulnerable

Rep. Frank denies Clinton stop indicates weakness

BOSTON – When it was announced that former President Bill Clinton would make a campaign appearance for U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, more than a few eyebrows went up.
Sure, it’s a year when incumbents of every political stripe are squirming. And the fast-talking, sharp-witted Massachusetts Democrat certainly has his share …. Read the original article  : here.

North Dakota law helps protect local pharmacies by preventing big chains from opening stores

ND protects small pharmacies from big box stores

NEW ROCKFORD, N.D. – Some of the nation’s largest retailers can’t open pharmacies in North Dakota because of a state law that says most drugstores must be owned by a pharmacist.
The law’s supporters say it has helped keep pharmacies in business in rural North Dakota and improved access …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : North Dakota law helps protect local pharmacies by preventing big chains from opening stores.

Jewish settlers in West Bank eagerly prepare for end of construction restrictions

Israel: Settlers brace for end of building freeze

JERUSALEM – Israeli settlers have hauled bulldozers, cement mixers and other construction equipment into a Jewish settlement deep inside the West Bank, Israeli and Palestinian officials said Saturday, a day before the end of a government-mandated halt to settlement building.
The lifting of the construction restrictions late Sunday presents … Read more »»».

China rises and rises, yet still gets hefty foreign aid, and some donors are wondering why

China rises and rises, yet still gets foreign aid

BEIJING – China spent tens of billions of dollars on a dazzling 2008 Olympics. It has sent astronauts into space. It recently became the world’s second largest economy. Yet it gets more than $2.5 billion a year in foreign government aid – and taxpayers and lawmakers in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China rises and rises, yet still gets hefty foreign aid, and some donors are wondering why.

Ford to open new engine plant in China, doubling capacity

Ford to open new engine plant in China
CHONGQING, China – Ford and Chinese partner, Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Ltd., plan to build a $500 million engine plant in China.

They signed a memorandum of understanding with the city of Chongqing on Saturday.
Construction is to begin next year with engine production starting in 2013. The plant can …. Original article  : Ford to open new engine plant in China, doubling capacity.

Japan rejects China’s demand for apology, compensation over arrest of boat captain

Japan rejects China’s demand for apology
BEIJING – Japan strongly rejected a Chinese demand on Saturday that it apologize for detaining a Chinese fishing boat captain whose arrest after a collision near disputed islands plunged relations between the two Asian powers to their lowest level in years.

Japanese authorities released the captain, Zhan Qixiong, early Saturday and … Original article on : Japan rejects China’s demand for apology, compensation over arrest of boat captain.

Indian firm helps build water park in UAE

Ras al-Khaimah (UAE), Sep 25 (IANS/WAM) An ice-themed water park in the Arabian Gulf, where penguins can be seen frolicking in the waters, was built at a cost of $100 million by a joint venture of Indian and UAE firms and will open for the public Sep 29.

The Ice Land Water Park, built in the … Read more : Indian firm helps build water park in UAE.