U.S. December trade deficit largest since 2012
WASHINGTON, Feb 5 (Reuters) – – The U.S. trade deficit in December widened sharply to its highest level since 2012 as imports rose despite a lower energy bill, which could see the fourth-quarter growth estimate revised down.
Estee Lauder cuts forecast, citing strong dollar
(Reuters) – Estee Lauder Cos Inc said full-year sales would fall more than it had forecast, hurt by a stronger dollar and slowing growth in Hong Kong and China.
U.S. jobless claims rise less than expected
The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment rose less than expected last week, a sign that the labor market continues to strengthen.
Dunkin’ Brands sales beat as U.S. consumers spend more
(Reuters) – Dunkin’ Brands Group Inc reported better-than-expected quarterly sales, helped by demand for sandwiches and its newly launched dark roast coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts outlets in the United States.
Velveeta revives as young and poor shop dollar stores for groceries
NEW YORK (Reuters) – Anielle Troyan, a call center worker in New York, shops at discount retailers such as Family Dollar for items like soap and detergent as well as groceries like Kraft macaroni and cheese and small-sized condiments.
AstraZeneca to buy Actavis lung drugs as earnings fall short
LONDON (Reuters) – AstraZeneca said on Thursday it would buy Actavis’ branded respiratory drug business in the United States and Canada for an initial $600 million as it reported disappointing fourth-quarter earnings.
Cigna fourth-quarter profit rises 29 percent due to higher premium revenue
(Reuters) – Health insurer Cigna Corp reported a 29 percent rise in fourth-quarter profit, driven by increased premium revenue and effective medical cost management.
McDonald’s Japan pushed into loss by food safety woes
TOKYO (Reuters) – The Japanese unit of McDonald’s Corp booked its first annual operating loss since going public in 2001 and its January sales plunged by a record 39 percent as food safety scandals drove customers away.
ECB’s ban on Greek bonds hits Europe, Greece slumps
LONDON (Reuters) – A European Central Bank decision to strike Greek bonds off its list of accepted collateral rattled European markets on Thursday, sending shares into reverse and investors back into safe-haven German bonds.
Siemens to cut over 7,000 jobs in reorganization: source
MUNICH (Reuters) – German industrial group Siemens plans to cut over 7,000 jobs worldwide as part of a reorganization under Chief Executive Joe Kaeser, a source familiar with the situation said.
