Chrysler expected to formally refuse Jeep recall

In one of the biggest-ever showdowns between an automaker and the government, Chrysler on Tuesday is expected to file papers explaining its refusal to recall 2.7 million older Jeep SUVs that are at risk of catching fire in rear-end collisions. 1371528988

Chrysler expected to formally refuse Jeep recall

Chrysler is expected to file papers Tuesday explaining its refusal to recall 2.7 million older Jeep SUVs. 1371528983
US homebuilder confidence soars to 7-year high

For the first time in seven years, most U.S. homebuilders are optimistic about home sales, a sign that construction could help drive stronger economic growth in coming months.
Stocks open higher on Wall Street ahead of Fed

Stocks are opening higher on Wall Street ahead of a two-day meeting of Federal Reserve policymakers.
US stocks rise ahead of Fed policy meeting

Stocks are rising in midday trading as traders expect the Federal Reserve to continue its stimulus of the U.S. economy when it meets this week.
Starboard says Smithfield sale undervalues company

One of Smithfield Foods Inc.'s largest shareholders says a $4.72 billion takeover bid from China's largest meat producer falls short of what the company would be worth if sold off piece by piece.
How the Dow Jones industrial average fared

U.S. stocks rose Monday, a day with light trading volume and little in the way of major economic or corporate news. Investors are betting that the Federal Reserve will keep in place programs meant to prop up the economy. The Fed holds a two-day policy meeting beginning Tuesday.
World looks to Bernanke to clarify stimulus plans

Is the era of ultra-low interest rates nearing an end?
Lucrative long-hauls get boost at Paris Air Show

Airbus and Boeing won pledges for big purchases of their lucrative long-haul wide-body jets at the Paris Air Show Monday, raising hopes that demand is recovering following the worldwide recession.
Pressure on Fed to provide clarity in uncertain environment

Federal Reserve officials begin a pivotal two-day meeting Tuesday facing a dilemma. The economy is showing enough improvement to justify dialing back some of the Fed’s life support, yet financial markets are terrified of what might happen and are taking it out on the housing sector.
World looks to Bernanke to clarify stimulus plans

Is the era of ultra-low interest rates nearing an end?
News summary: Lowe's offers to buy hardware stores

THE NEWS: Lowe's Cos. offered to buy Sears spinoff Orchard Supply Hardware Stores for about $205 million in cash.
Futures rising ahead of Fed's 2-day policy meeting

U.S. stock futures are rising sharply ahead of this week's two-day policy meeting of the U.S. Federal Reserve.
News Summary: On trading floor, a wait-and-see day

HOLDING PATTERN: Trading was light Monday, with investors waiting to see what Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will say Wednesday about how long the central bank might keep in place programs meant to stimulate the economy.
Little joy in Croatia as it enters the EU

There will be festivities and fireworks, but Kata Secic can't muster much enthusiasm for Croatia's historic entry into the European Union.
Investors guess Fed's actions, push stocks higher

Investors on Wall Street are playing a guessing game with the Federal Reserve.
Lowe's offers to buy Orchard Supply for $205M

Lowe's plans to expand its California presence with an acquisition of Sears spinoff Orchard Supply Hardware Stores for about $205 million in cash.
Thrifty says offer of free rental car was mistake

Thrifty Car Rental says it's sorry, but many customers who were offered a free one-day rental won't be getting that after all.
US stocks rise ahead of Fed policy meeting

Stocks are closing higher as traders hope that the Federal Reserve will decide to continue its economic stimulus program when it meets this week.
Oil posts small loss after hitting high for year

The price of oil fell slightly after it climbed to a high for the year Monday, as the market waits to see the results of this week's Federal Reserve policy meeting.