IN BRIEF (Page 16)

Business International

Peace proves profitable for N. Ireland

For years, Northern Ireland was a byword for brutality and fear. But now, the tiny province is selling itself as a central, low-cost land of business opportunity, and investors are buying.

Adidas earnings up on cost cuts

Adidas AG, the world's second-largest sporting-goods maker, reported a 32 percent increase in first-quarter profit after squeezing suppliers for cost reductions and opening stores under its own brand.

Samsung profit rises on prices

Samsung Heavy Industries Co, the world's second-biggest shipyard, said first-quarter profit climbed 29 percent after building vessels and offshore platforms at higher prices.

Russian gaming billionaire eyes expansion plans

Oleg Boyko, the Russian billionaire who controls Eastern Europe's largest gaming company, said his businesses plan to raise $1.5 billion this year to fund expansion in gambling, retail and real estate.

IN BRIEF (Page 16)

Business International

Swedish firms vie to keep staff satisfied

High-tech gyms, free breakfasts, and programmes to help people lose weight or stop smoking: modern Swedish companies pamper their employees in a bid to combat one of Europe's highest absenteeism rates.

Is the US ditching the SUV?

Automotive trends traditionally don't change nearly as fast as fashions in clothing or music.

IPO set to net a billion for Sprott

Sprott Asset Management Inc's initial public offering this week will make a billionaire of the hedge fund company's founder, spurring speculation Canada's decade-old commodities boom is ending, investors say.

Buffett says financial pain largely self-inflicted

Billionaires Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger say the pain many financial institutions are feeling because of the credit crunch is well deserved.