Ratings agency Standard & Poor's downgrades the long-term credit grades of a string of major banks including Barclays and HSBC.

India's parliament ends a two-week deadlock after the government confirms it is suspending a plan to open the retail market to global supermarkets.

The UK's industrial and manufacturing output both fell at their fastest pace for six months in October, figures show.

The UK government has launched a consultation on new rules which would force banks to declare executive pay and bonus levels.

Australia's economy grew by more than expected in the third quarter of 2011, driven by building and mining activity.

The number of permanent job placements fell at its fastest rate in November since July 2009, says the Recruitment and Employment Confederation

Troubled outdoor clothes retailer Blacks Leisure appeals for a white knight to rescue it by buying the firm or one of its brands.

Lenders raise concerns about potential changes to the way support is given to those struggling to pay their mortgage.