UK producer inflation at record UK factory gate prices and producers' input costs rose at a record pace in April, official figures show.
Firms 'up prices as costs soar' Manufacturers are raising prices as they face the strongest cost pressures in over 20 years, the CBI says.
British Gas bills may rise again British Gas-owner Centrica signals fuel bills may rise as its profits are squeezed by high gas and power prices.
Australian banks in merger talks Australian bank Westpac makes a 15bn Australian dollar (£7.2bn; $14.1bn) offer for its rival St George Bank.
US court allows apartheid claims The US Supreme Court says it cannot consider a lawsuit brought by victims of apartheid against a number of firms.
Power to SA mines 'not at risk' South Africa promises that its lucrative mining sector will not suffer further power disruption during the winter months.
Alarm at Google Yahoo partnering US advocacy groups urge regulators to block any deal Google and Yahoo might strike after a two-week experiment.
Chinese plane firm gets wings China launches a new plane maker to one day compete with Boeing and Airbus, state media report.
Burma cyclone raises rice prices Rice prices rise for a sixth straight day as supplies continue to be stretched after cyclone damage in Burma.
BAA's shareholders agree funding BAA shareholders have agreed to stump up £400m ($779m) as the firm struggles to refinance its debt.
Big fall in French factory output French industrial output falls four times more sharply than expected in March, raising concerns about the economy.
Oil price 'may hit $200 a barrel' The price of oil could soar to $200 a barrel in as little as six months, a report warns as crude passes $123.
Clashes as strike grips Lebanon Explosions and gunfire ring out across the Lebanese capital during a highly politicised strike for a hike in minimum wages.
Rice prices rise for a fifth day Rice prices soar for a fifth straight day as the cyclone damage in Burma worsens already tight supplies.
Cyclone fuels rice price increase Rice prices have gained for the fourth consecutive day, as shortages are aggravated by the cyclone in Burma.
