Firm enjoys sweet smell of success

Givaudan SA, the world's biggest flavors and fragrances maker, said third-quarter revenue increased 52 percent after the $2.44 billion acquisition of British rival Quest.

Business International

VW, Proton 'close to joining forces'

German auto giant Volkswagen is close to forming a pact with Proton with at least an initial 20 percent stake in the loss-making Malaysian carmaker, a report said on Sunday.

Housing slump takes toll on US furniture industry

Doug Schock shook his head in disbelief while gazing at the empty bank of elevators, typically full as they shuttle thousands of buyers between dozens of showrooms filled with the latest styles in sofas, bedroom sets, and dining room tables and chairs.

IN BRIEF (Page 15)

Zero hour looms on Chrysler contract

Chrysler LLC has been given until today to reach an agreement on a new contract with the United Auto Workers or face a possible strike, people familiar with the negotiations said.

New York crude rises on storm risk

Crude oil rose a second day in New York as stockpiles in the US Midwest fell to a 21-month low and a storm formed south of fields in the Gulf of Mexico.

Biz people

Buffett may buy into Bear Stearns

IN BRIEF (Page 15)

Business International

Day traders hungry for Shanghai gold futures

The approval of gold futures' debut on Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE) is catching the attention of not only institutional investors but retail investors looking for an attractive alternative to shares and stocks.

Toshiba draws up ambitious plan in China market

Toshiba, one of the most famous Japanese firms in China, has spelt out a hugely ambitious plan to grow its Chinese business to as big as its home market in the medium term. Takaaki Tanaka, former head of the overseas business development department of Toshiba, was assigned to lead Toshiba's Chinese business in February. In this exclusive interview with China Daily reporter Liu Baijia, he talks about Toshiba's strategies and goals.