WRAL.com - AP Business News

Bernanke testimony to be studied for policy clues

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:10:26 -0400

When Ben Bernanke testifies about the U.S. economy Wednesday, the Federal Reserve chairman's words will be examined for any clues that the Fed might soon taper — or increase — its support for the economy.

Target's 1Q profit drops 26 pct on weak sales

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:52:39 -0400

Target Corp. is reporting a 26 percent drop in first-quarter profits as cool temperatures and financial pressures limited customers' appetite for spending.

Lowe's 1Q profit rises, but results miss Street

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:53:11 -0400

Lowe's first-quarter net income rose almost 3 percent, even as a wet and cool spring dampened sales of gardening products.

US auto factories cutting back on summer downtime

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:38:36 -0400

The Detroit automakers are largely forgoing the traditional two-week summer break at their factories and speeding up production to meet buyers' growing demand for new cars and trucks.

Investors edgy ahead of Bernanke testimony

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:52:32 -0400

Investors were edgy Wednesday ahead of the appearance of U.S. Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke before lawmakers in Congress.

Futures rise; all eyes on the Fed

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:43:50 -0400

U.S. stock futures are rising with the nation's central bank seemingly committed to ushering along a financial rebound and the housing market nearing an important milestone.

First Look: New Xbox elegant, but much unknown

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:36:16 -0400

Will gamers want One?

Apple case seen as possible spur to tax action

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:06:54 -0400

Now that tech darling Apple Inc. has been dragged front and center into the debate over the U.S. tax code, lawmakers are hoping that the spotlight on such a high-profile company could be the catalyst for Congress to take action to close loopholes or reform the law.

Sony mulls hedge fund's entertainment sale idea

Wed, 22 May 2013 05:56:18 -0400

Sony's CEO Kazuo Hirai says the electronics giant's board will discuss a proposal by U.S. hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb to spin off up to 20 percent of its movie, TV and music division.

EU leaders discuss fight against tax evasion

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:20:08 -0400

The European Union's leaders are seeking to advance their fight against tax evasion and close loopholes for large corporations' creative tax avoidance schemes.