Cities May Mute Effect of Wal-Mart: Study Finds Impact on Retailers Milder Than in Rural Areas
5/13/2008
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May 13--Wal-Mart Stores Inc. appears to have played a role in putting some retailers out of business since opening its first Chicago store in Austin more than 18 months ago, but the effect on its smaller rivals is likely milder than what occurs when the giant store arrives in a rural town, according to initial findings of a new study.
Their preliminary conclusion is that a "small but statistically significant relationship" exists between local companies going out of business and Wal-Mart's arrival in the city. |
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Radian Reports First-Quarter Loss
5/13/2008
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May 13--Continuing weakness in housing and credit markets pushed Radian Group Inc. to a first-quarter operating loss of $215.2 million from a profit of $106.9 million last year, the company said yesterday.
Reflecting the sharp increase in mortgage defaults, Radian paid $190.19 million in claims in the first quarter, nearly double the $95.82 million it paid in the same period a year ago. |
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HP Pursues EDS to Beef Up Consulting
5/13/2008
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Computer giant Hewlett-Packard is "engaged in advanced discussions" with consulting firm Electronic Data Systems about a "possible business combination involving the two companies," HP said Monday.
If HP were to buy EDS, it would strengthen its own business consulting arm, which helps companies design, build and manage complicated computer systems. |
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