US car giant Ford reports results that underlined the contrasting fortunes of its North American and European businesses.

Official figures out later will reveal whether the UK economy has slipped into a triple-dip recession, but many economists forecast marginal growth.

Centre-left politician Enrico Letta appears set to become Italy's prime minister, and pledges a change of direction on austerity.

South Korea's growth rate hits a two-year high in the first three months of the year, boosted by a rebound in construction, investment and exports.

Santander, the eurozone's biggest bank, reports a 26% fall in profits for the first three months of the year.

Unemployment has risen once again in Spain to another new record of more than six million, 27.2% of the workforce.

The UK economy avoids a triple-dip recession after it grew by 0.3% in the first three months of the year.

South Korea's Hyundai Motor reports a 15% drop in first quarter profit, after being hit by industrial action and the strength of the won.