The UK faces a fragile economic recovery, with the overall picture worrying, a British Chambers of Commerce survey suggests.

New Zealand's business confidence drops after the earthquake in Christchurch hurts companies.

The Brazilian mining giant Vale, the world's biggest iron ore producer, says it has chosen a new chief executive.

Australia has posted a trade deficit of A$205m ($212m) for February as twin natural disasters hit the country's exports.

There is confusion over whether Toyota will temporarily halt car production in the US because of parts shortages following the Japan earthquake.

HMV issues its third profits warning this year, but says it has gained an extension from its bankers for tests on loan conditions.

Shares in Tepco, operator of the Fukushima nuclear plant, hit a record low amid reports it will have to meet huge compensation claims.

The first shipment of oil from Libya for almost three weeks due to be exported from the country later.