Apple hits $200 for the first time

Shares of Apple Inc hit the $200 mark for the first time on Wednesday, as investor confidence in the company continued rising near the end of what has been a strong year for the iPod and computer maker.

Japan stocks end winning streak

Japanese stocks snapped a four-session winning streak yesterday as investors locked in profits on recent gainers such as property firm Mitsui Fudosan in holiday-thinned trade, with Tokyo set to end the year as the world's worst performing major stock market.

Is the Sage of Omaha becoming more acquisitive?

Warren Buffett may be more inclined to acquire industrial companies than to invest in their shares these days.

IN BRIEF (Page 16)

Document

Taking action on an urgent issue for all nations

VI. Coordinating energy and environment development

Business International

Toyota increases 2008 sales forecast

Toyota Motor Corp raised its sales forecast for 2008 to 9.85 million vehicles, cementing the company's lead as the world's most profitable carmaker.

Jay-Z quits as Def Jam boss

Universal Music Group said on Monday that Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter is stepping down as president of its Def Jam Records unit, effective by the end of the year.

Tokyo stocks close on high note

Japanese stocks closed at their highest in nearly two weeks yesterday as investors picked up recently pressured shares such as Sony Corp, encouraged by a softening yen and after news from Merrill Lynch prompted a rally on Wall Street.

Singapore snaps up Merrill stake

Merrill Lynch & Co Inc shored up its capital base by as much as $7.5 billion after selling a stake to Singapore's government and an asset manager, and unloading much of a lending business, as it wrestles with huge subprime mortgage losses.

Biz People

Lula: Good prospects in '08