Analysts were unprepared for a higher-than-predicted leap in German investor optimism in January, despite continued signs of downsizing in German industry. German investor confidence jumped unexpectedly in January, a key indicator released on Tuesday showed. It signals hope that signs of an economic recovery could emerge as the year...

The government has announced a second package of measures to encourage banks to lend to individuals and businesses. The long list of policies includes a scheme to offer insurance against banks losing more money from the bad debts that started the credit crunch. Prime Minister Gordon Brown said the...

The EU is facing a “deep and protracted” recession, according to forecasts made in Brussels and released on Monday, Jan. 19. More economic contraction and rising unemployment are on the horizon, Brussels said. The 16 nations which use the euro will see their economies shrink by 1.9 percent, while...

Yahoo Inc unveiled on Wednesday a list of partners to aid its push to bring the Internet and television together, hoping their joint effort will finally connect with consumers. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Yahoo said it has forged deals with companies including Samsung Electronics Co...

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) economist has criticised the UK’s 2.5-percentage-point cut in spending taxes. Olivier Blanchard, the IMF’s chief economist, said that the temporary cut in VAT would not significantly influence shoppers’ behaviour. In an interview with French newspaper Le Monde, Mr Blanchard said he did not think...