The chairman of the Federal Reserve Ben Bernanke warns the fiscal cliff is a substantial threat to the recovery of the US economy.

Japan's exports fall for a fifth straight month after demand in China and the European Union weakens, adding to fears about the economy.

Last-ditch efforts break down aimed at ending a labour dispute threatening the future of Twinkies, one of the best-known US snack food brands.

Eurozone finance ministers fail to broker a deal for Greece to get the latest tranche of its bailout, ending 12 hours of talks in Brussels.

The inability of HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to properly curb aggressive tax avoidance schemes is costing billions of pounds, a watchdog says.

Muddy Waters Research renews its attack on Singapore-based Olam International, saying the agricultural commodities trader "will collapse".

Halfords reports a big drop in first-half profits as strong cycling sales in the summer failed to offset a poor start to the year.

Channels 3 and 5 have their licences renewed for a further 10 years after the end of 2014, Culture Secretary Maria Miller announces.