AP - The Federal Reserve kept a key interest rate unchanged Tuesday, saying that strains in financial markets have "increased significantly" but the inflation outlook remains uncertain.

AP - The largest drop in wholesale prices in nearly two years in August failed to spur consumers to spend more at the shopping malls, raising new worries about a possible recession as the temporary boost from tax rebate checks becomes a distant memory.

AP - The U.S. trade gap has hit a 16-month high, the job market is shrinking and exports — a rare item in the economy's plus column lately — may slow.

AP - America's trade deficit shot up in July to the highest level in 16 months as oil imports hit an all-time high, offsetting strong export growth. The deficit with China climbed to the second highest level on record.

AP - The U.S. trade deficit soared in July to the highest level in 16 months as oil imports hit an all-time high, offsetting strong export growth.

AP - Rates on 30-year mortgages dropped sharply this week, falling to the lowest level in five months, as the government's dramatic takeover of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had the hoped-for impact of lowering mortgage rates.

AP - The Federal Reserve has auctioned another $25 billion in loans to squeezed banks to help them overcome credit problems.