Stocks, oil firmer on U.S. econ optimism

World stocks hit 2-1/2 week highs on Monday and oil reached a six-week peak as investors became increasingly confident about the outlook for the U.S. economic recovery. The euro held above last

Cyprus construction prices inch up in January

The price index of construction materials reached 11796 (base year 2005=100.00) in January 2010, recording an increase of 0.73% over the previous month. Compared to January 2009, the index recorded an increase

Bernanke, retailers hold key for stocks

Wall Street could keep rallying after notching its best week this year if Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke gives a reassuring assessment of the recovery and retail earnings show improvement. Investors are