Japan posted a surprise trade surplus for February, after a record high deficit the previous month, as external demand picks up.
Shell in shale gas pact in China
Royal Dutch Shell signs its first-ever production sharing contract for shale gas in China with China National Petroleum Corporation.
China manufacturing activity dips
China's manufacturing activity continues to slow, raising fears the global slowdown is harming its economy.
Article written by Robert Peston
Robert Peston
Business editor
15 hours ago
Business got as much as it could have hoped from the chancellor, with the cut in corporation tax and in the top rate of income tax. Will it now repay his generosity by investing more and creating more jobs?
Article written by Stephanie Flanders
Stephanie Flanders
Economics editor
12 hours ago
The debate over the 50p rate may well light up the political landscape. But the picture for the budget and the economy is still pretty bleak.
Glencore buys Viterra for $6.2bn
Commodities trader Glencore is buying Canadian grain handling firm Viterra for $6.2bn.
Deutsche to challenge NYSE ruling
Deutsche Boerse is to legally challenge the European Union's decision to block its planned merger with rival NYSE Euronext.
Gem Diamonds 2011 profits triple
Gem Diamonds said strong demand and a rise in production helped its profits to triple giving it an "exceptional year".
Oil prices up despite Saudi move
Oil prices climb as concerns about supply overshadow Saudi Arabia's pledge to boost its crude output by a quarter if needed.
Channel 4 secures racing rights
Channel 4 secures a four-year deal to broadcast the Grand National, the Derby and Royal Ascot from 2013.
Hot mobile trends for SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises have a vast range of mobile integration tools to help their business keep working on the move.
'No help' for UK manufacturing
A Bristol design firm which makes suitcases for children is expanding its production from China to the UK.
Over-65s' tax-free income freeze
The amount of income that is not taxed will be frozen for those aged over 65, affecting the financial plans of those approaching retirement.
Portugal braces for general strike02:35
Japan in surprise trade surplus01:36
China and India and Iran's oil sanctions01:30
Australian rare earth challenge to China01:51
Taiwan hopes for jobs from China02:02
Portugal fighting off debt spiral01:51
How bright is the world's future?04:05
Redeveloping Seoul's shanty town02:39
Spanish gamble
Will mega-casino project bring profit or problems?
Gaming power-up
How tax breaks could transform the UK games industry
Underground gas
South Africa weighs up wealth against beauty
Eastern lure
Hollywood looks to China for new audience
Why small firms should be taking cyber crime more seriously
Future of Asia's family businesses under threat
Which is the world's biggest employer?
Last Updated at 03:24 ET
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