Brazil's central bank cuts the county's key interest rate to 11.5% from 12%, citing the continuing slowdown in the global economy.

China Banking Regulatory Commission says it is looking to curb the rise of shadow banking and private lending in the country.

The rate of Consumer Prices Index inflation rose to 5.2% in September from 4.5% the month before, matching the record level set in September 2008.

The world's biggest food group, Nestle, raises its sales growth outlook for 2011 after a better-than-expected performance in the first nine months.

Olympus shares continue to fall as statements issued by the firm fail to dispel concerns over the payment of advisory fees.

Local councils have been hardest hit by job losses following the UK government's Spending Review, a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers says.

Sony postpones the launch of various products after flooding in Thailand halts production at two of its factories.

Department store group Debenhams reports a rise in full-year profits and confirms plans to open new stores.