MARKETWATCH FRONT PAGE U.S. stock futures pointed to a slight rise Thursday as markets struggled to push beyond the advance registered after the Federal Reserve’s surprise move to buy government bonds. See full story. Economic Report: Continuing jobless claims jump by 185,000 to record 5.47 million The number of people collecting state unemployment benefits jumped by 185,000 to a record seasonally adjusted 5.47 million in the week ending March 7, while new claims dipped by 12,000 to 646,000 in the week ending March 14, the Labor Department reports. See full story. Citi files to launch exchange offer, reverse split Citigroup Inc. on Thursday files a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission to seek shareholder approval to convert preferred shares into common stock under its previously announced plan to build capital. See full story. Microsoft unveils new Internet browser WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- Microsoft Corp. on Thursday said Internet users could start downloading its latest Web browser, Internet Explorer 8, starting at noon Eastern time. See full story. Oracle profit slips, but sales steady WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- Oracle Corp. reported a reduced profit for its third fiscal quarter, citing the impact of currency exchange rates, though its final result still topped Wall Street's estimates. See full story. MARKETWATCH PERSONAL FINANCE Robert Powell: Conventional advice may derail your retirement plans You can either sink or you can swim. When it comes to retirement, those are pretty much your only options, according to Frank Armstrong, author of “The Retirement Challenge.” See full story.

Source