Amazon.com Inc has established a clear lead in user preference for digital media download sites in Britain, despite a relatively late entry into the market, a survey published by Strategy Analytics said. Amazon was the most preferred brand across music, video and games downloads preferences, ahead of Apple's iTunes, Microsoft's MSN and eBay. Martin Olausson,

American International Group Inc, rescued twice last year by the U.S. government, is asking for more aid and bracing for a fourth-quarter loss of roughly $60 billion, a source familiar with the matter said. It would be the biggest loss in a quarter in corporate history. The $60 billion would exceed Time Warner's $54 billion

Japan's government is looking at expanding stock buying and taking other steps to support the share market, Finance Minister Kaoru Yosano said on Tuesday, amid growing fears for the economy as sliding stocks erode the capital of banks. Banks, large holders of stocks in Japan, have been forced to raise billions of dollars in new

European stocks slid in early trade on Tuesday, echoing sharp losses on Wall Street and in Asia as lingering fears over the stability of the financial sector rattled investors. AXA, Europe's second biggest insurer, dropped 6 percent, dragged down by renewed concerns over the company's balance sheet and the prospect of a capital increase. "We

Europe and Asia joined Wall Street's sell-off on Tuesday, sending world stocks to their lowest since April 2003, while oil fell and government bonds rose as fresh concerns grew about the financial system. Germany's closely-watched IFO survey showed sentiment among manufacturers deteriorating in February, with the business climate index unexpectedly falling a touch to 82.6.