THE United States has accused China of keeping its yuan currency "substantially undervalued", but stopped short of branding Beijing a currency manipulator.

FEDERAL Opposition Leader Brendan Nelson has denied he plans to block Budget legislation in the Senate, but says he will look at certain tax measures.

BHP Billiton shares surged to a record high of $50 today amid speculation that Chinese interests aim to take a 9 per cent stake in the company.

COMMONWEALTH Bank chief Ralph Norris has refused to rule out a counter-bid on Westpac's takeover move on St George.

BRITAIN'S central bank has warned the UK may be following the US into recession, despite a growing belief the worst of the credit crunch has passed.

MARGIN loans and inadequate disclosure may have derailed ABC Learning but outgoing chairman Sallyanne Atkinson says there is too much corporate regulation.

SALES of Coke bottler Coca-Cola Amatil have lost fizz after rival Schweppes slashed prices and a wet summer dampened demand.