NEWS

Business activity in the 15 nations sharing the euro slumped in November at the fastest pace on record as a severe downturn deepened, according to a widely watched survey on Friday.

Business activity in the 15 countries sharing the euro falls in November to a ten-year low, the purchasing managers' index (PMI) shows.

Nov. 21 (Bloomberg) -- Vivendi SA Chief Executive Officer Jean-Bernard Levy said he will continue to ``cut costs and be cautious'' as he ``has no clue'' how the current economic slump will affect the company's business.

Steve Inskeep has the Last Word in business.

The Big Three US automakers must come up with "solid, clear, accountable business plans" to survive a sales slump and current financial turmoil, Canada's industry minister said Thursday.

Business confidence in Wales is at a record low, according to a new survey by a chartered accountants body.

Nov. 21 (Bloomberg) -- South Africa's government will play a more active role in raising funds abroad to finance the current account deficit and ensure the continuity of its capital investment program, Business Day reported.

A Bronx pet shop owner who lost more than 100 animals in a horrific blaze vowed Thursday to rebuild his 27-year-old business. All Edwin David Rios has left of Stephanie and Amanda's Pet Center in Morrisania is a parrot, two kittens and two dogs.

Retailer Steve & Barry's has filed for bankruptcy protection and will go out of business, according to a court filing released Thursday. The Port Washington, N.Y.-based chain, which has more than 5,000 employees, will liquidate its stores by early 2009.

MUMBAI, Nov 21 (Reuters) - Sugar producer EID Parry (India) Ltd on Friday said it has bought 48 percent stake in US Nutraceuticals, LLC, based in Florida which operates in the nutraceuticals business under Valensa International, it said.