Reuters - JPMorgan Chase & Co said on Saturday it completed its $1.4 billion Bear Stearns Cos takeover, capping the demise of a Wall Street firm that survived the Depression and numerous slumps in its 85 years but could not navigate the mortgage crisis.

AP - The European Central Bank celebrates its 10th birthday Monday with its reputation burnished by a steadfast stance on interest rates and quick action to supply banks with cash during the credit crisis over mortgage-backed securities.

AFP - The dollar strengthened Thursday after US growth figures were revised higher, suggesting underlying strength in the economy despite the ravages of the subprime mortgage crisis.

Reuters - Defaults on privately insured mortgages rose sharply in April, showing homeowners continue to struggle to keep up with loan payments.

AP - Rates on 30-year mortgages jumped this week to the highest level since mid-March as investors began to worry about what the Federal Reserve will do to combat growing inflation pressures.

Reuters - Representatives of two collapsed Bear Stearns Cos Inc hedge funds linked to risky mortgage investments have lost a court appeal seeking to have the funds liquidated in the Cayman Islands instead of in the United States.

AP - Like spring flowers, the "For Sale" signs are sprouting in front yards all over the country. But anxious sellers are facing the most brutal environment in decades, with a slumping economy, falling home prices and rising mortgage foreclosures.