Stocks turn lower...UAW's moves...Richardson tapped for Commerce

NEW YORK (AP) Stocks have posted an indecisive showing so far this session. The key averages have been both higher and lower since the opening bell, recently in negative territory.

Washington (AP) The Federal Reserve's latest snapshot of business conditions nationwide, suggested the economy is sinking deeper into recession. The so-called Beige Book says "economic activity weakened across all Federal Reserve districts." The Fed's final policy-setting session of the year is later this month.

DETROIT (AP) United Auto Workers President Ron Gettelfinger says the union is willing to change its contract and will delay billions of dollars in payments to a union-run health care trust.

Gettelfinger stopped short of saying the union would reopen contract talks with the automakers, but said it would be willing to return to the bargaining table to change some terms.

CHICAGO (AP) President-elect Barack Obama named New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson as commerce secretary. The president-elect called Richardson a leading "economic diplomat for America."


NEW YORK (AP) The Energy Department says crude and gasoline inventories dropped last week. At the same time, overall demand for motor fuel continued to slide.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-03-08 1312CST | save this article / add to your favorites list