U.S. stocks dip after last week's gains

Date: Mon, 04 Feb 2008 17:01:19 (GMT)

U.S. stocks dip after last week's gains

U.S. stocks edge lower at the open Monday, with investors scaling back
positions after strong gains in four of the previous five sessions,
while several broker downgrades weigh on financial stocks.

Google blasts a Microsoft-Yahoo deal as hindering competition

Google attacks Microsoft's bid to acquire Yahoo as an attempt to extend
its software monopoly to the Internet turf, drawing a quick retort from
Microsoft that the market would benefit from its proposed merger.

Economic Report: Layoff announcements jump 69% in January

WASHINGTON
A fresh surge in financial-sector layoffs contributed to a 69% increase
in corporate job-cut announcements in January, according to the latest
tally compiled by outplacement firm Challenger Gray & Christmas released
Monday.

Asia Markets: Shanghai rebounds strongly, leading regional market rally

Shanghai-listed shares rebound strongly to lead a regionwide rally,
after the Chinese market regulator approved the launch of two new stock
funds for the first time in several months.