Stock Market & Financial News - Trading Room

Money matters still taboo for women: ANZ

Financial matters remain a taboo topic for the majority of Australian women, ANZ Banking Group Ltd says.

Britain to cut Value Added Tax by 2.5%

The British government is expected to slash Value Added Tax (VAT) in an attempt to lead the nation out of the financial doldrums.

Aussie gold production at 20-year low

Australia is on track to record its lowest annual gold production in 20 years, but prices for the precious metal are at record highs, a report says.

Stocks tipped to rise on Wall St rally

The Australian stock market is expected to open stronger on Monday after a late rally on Wall Street ended yet another turbulent week on world markets.

BHP reduces production in Brazil

BHP Billiton Ltd says iron ore pellet production will be reduced at its Brazilian operations due to weak demand.

Lion Nathan seeks talks with Coca-Cola

Brewer Lion Nathan says it will seek talks with US-based The Coca-Cola Company as it continues with its near $8 billion bid for Coca-Cola Amatil.

ArcelorMittal warns of layoffs in US

ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steelmaker, is warning 2,444 employees at a steel plant in northwestern Indiana could be laid off indefinitely in January.

Australian reports

• Aust markets: Aussie sharemarket closes nearly 2% up
• Aust dollar report: $A closes weaker after Wall St decline
• Aust credit close: Bonds close stronger after Wall St drop

World reports

• World commodities: Oil prices tumble under $US50 a barrel
• World markets: Wall Street weaker in afternoon trade

Stocks to watch

AGK, FMG, NXS, AVJ, TLS, NHR, AXA, GMG, MQG, GNS, AFG, RRT, AHU, TWR, CSL, ABS,