U.S. stocks mostly rise with holiday sales in play

Date: Fri, 26 Dec 2008 12:01:22 -0500
U.S. stocks mostly rise with holiday sales in play

U.S. stocks opened higher on Friday, led by gains in energy shares as
crude oilprices advanced, while retailers were in focus as
post-Christmas sales kick off in earnest.

AMAZON SAYS 2008 HOLIDAY SEASON IS ITS 'BEST EVER'

Amazon says the 2008 holiday season "finished as its best ever," in
spite of grim results across much of the overall retail sector.

JAPAN NOVEMBER INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT FALLS 'OFF THE CLIFF'

Japan's industrial output tumbles at a record pace
in November, stoking fears the country's recession may stretch longer
and be more painful than anticipated.

ASIA MARKETS: TOKYO EXTENDS GAINS ON ASAHI BREWERIES, EXPORTERS

Asian markets mostly advance thin holiday trading,
with Japanese shares rising for a second session as Asahi Breweries
climb on a report the brewer was likely to beat its profit forecast,
while exporters such
as Toyota Motor Corp. extend gains as investors snap them up before
the end of the year.

DIVORCE RATES DROP AS COUPLES STAY TOGETHER DUE TO TIGHT FINANCES

The recession and economic turmoil is creating a new class of casualties:
Married couples who can't afford to get divorced. In these tough times
many people are finding it's cheaper to stay together, even when they
can't stand each other.