Budget Plan Has Familiar Ring

Some Europe Banks Shun ECB Loans

The lenders are fearful of being perceived as bailout recipients that could subject them to potential political or regulatory interference.

Indonesian Economy Grows at Top Clip Since '90s

Indonesia's economy grew last year at its fastest pace since the 1997-1998 Asian crisis, with the country's vast domestic market helping to shield it from global economic turmoil.

• Video: Robust Pace of Expansion

U.K. Retail Sales Drop

Retail sales in U.K. stores that have been open for at least a year fell in January, and at the second-fastest rate for the first month of the year since records began in 1995, according to the British Retail Consortium's monthly survey.

German Manufacturing Orders Up

German manufacturing orders rose more than expected in December, driven by a surge in demand from outside the euro zone, in the latest sign that Europe's largest economy may yet avoid recession.

Euro-Zone Government Debt Falls

The combined debt of the 17 euro-zone governments fell as a percentage of economic output in the third quarter of 2011, although it rose in all three members that have been forced to seek a bailout.

Italian, French Bonds Rise

Italian and French government bonds reversed earlier declines to trade modestly higher, although the market was cautious amid a deadlock over a new rescue package for cash-strapped Greece.

IMF Urges Beijing to Ready Bold Moves

The IMF urged China to run a federal deficit of 2% of GDP rather than looking to reduce the country's deficit as planned, given the uncertainty in the global economy.