Household incomes and spending rise in the US in October, giving Wall Street a lift, despite continuing housing market woes.

McDonald's is going to introduce a degree course for its restaurant managers in the UK.

The government announces plans for £8bn of investment in Britain's railways but passengers face higher ticket prices to pay for it.

The euro continues its slide against the dollar as investors digest the Irish Republic's tough austerity plan.

Japan's export growth slowed in October, figures show, raising further questions about the strength of the country's recovery.

Currys and PC World owner Dixons Retail predicts a tough and competitive Christmas after announcing "significantly reduced" losses.

Prime Minister David Cameron insists his £2m scheme to measure happiness is not "impractical" and will improve people's lives.

A member of the Bank's interest rate-setting body says he was concerned about the MPC's support for government deficit-cutting plans.