U.S. stock-market futures point higher Friday as investors await consumer-spending and new-home-sales reports, among other data. See full story.
Stocks to watch Friday: Shutterfly, Rambus, CIT
A hodge podge of corporate developments awaits investors on the final trading day before Christmas. See full story.
Roche, BP drive gains for Europe stocks
European stock markets trade higher early Friday, led by Roche and BP, with volumes seen light ahead of the long holiday weekend. See full story.
Asia markets rebound after U.S. gains
Asia markets rebounded in Friday trading after strong data painted an improving U.S. economic picture, with several resource stocks among the notable gainers. See full story.
Holidays perk up wilting floral industry
The holiday season is the busiest season for the U.S. floral industry, but local supermarkets are pruning part of the multi-billion dollar business from the traditional neighborhood florist shop. See full story.
MARKETWATCH COMMENTARY
Instead of acknowledging that banks have become a part of government, we keep pretending they are private institutions, writes David Weidner. See full story.
MARKETWATCH PERSONAL FINANCE
The U.S. Post Office receives millions of letter to Santa each year, and as part of its Operation Santa Claus, postal workers sort out the requests from needy children so that good Samaritans can send gifts. This year, more parents are writing in to ask for help for their children. See full story.
