New figures suggest that householders are feeling less optimistic about their finances than at any time since April.

Trading in Air New Zealand's shares is halted after the country's government says it will sell a 20% stake in the airline.

A diamond called the Pink Star has fetched a record price for a gemstone by selling for $83m at an auction in Geneva.

Directors' pay at the UK's top businesses rises 14% in a year thanks to a huge jump in share-based incentives, says a pay research company.

Fund manager Aberdeen Asset Management has bought rival Scottish Widows Investment Partnership (SWIP) from Lloyds Banking Group in a £660m deal.

Majestic Wine reports a drop in sales but says it is "very well prepared" for the Christmas season, in first-half results.

Ed Miliband claims parents in England are facing a "childcare crunch" as he seeks to keep pressure on the government over the cost of living.

Capita's shares fall 2% after the chief executive says he is quitting the outsourcing firm after 14 years at the helm.