Intel 2Q profit jump reassures Wall Street about robustness of global PC demand

Worried that the ailing U.S. economy has spilled abroad and hurt global PC sales, investors had subdued expectations for Intel Corp. in the second quarter. Intel is the world's largest computer chip maker, and its fortunes rise and fall with swings in PC demand.

Market's Swoon Prods Investors to Try Options

Gyrating markets and eager brokerage firms are driving small investors into complex options trades, which can help hedge against stock-price swings, generate income and boost overall returns. But options can also present huge risks.

Apple, Dell big winners as PC market shows healthy growth

Market analyst firm Gartner, Inc. has released worldwide PC sales data for the second quarter of 2008, and the news is mostly good—especially if you're Apple or Dell. The worldwide market grew significantly over the past three months, but prices did decline somewhat as vendors slashed prices in an attempt to drive volume.Read More...

Asia stocks drop after US mortgage plan (AP)

AP - Most Asian markets fell Monday as investors worried over the depth of U.S. credit and housing problems after the country's central bank moved to prop up ailing mortgage financiers Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Asia markets mixed as India shares drop on worries over industrial production, inflation

Asian markets were largely mixed Friday as Hong Kong stocks rose for a third day and Indian shares dropped sharply after a worrisome readings on the country's industrial production.

Stocks eye banks, short-sale rule (Reuters)

Reuters - In the heart of earnings season, stock market investors will scrutinize a raft of regional bank earnings this week for more write-offs that could send the market tumbling.