U.S. Economy Barely Grew in First Quarter

The American economy slowed drastically in the first quarter of 2014, as wintry weather depressed corporate spending and housing sector activity, while smaller additions to inventories by farmers and businesses also held back growth.

Canadian Consumer Confidence Reaches Almost 4-Year High

Canadian consumer confidence was the highest in almost four years last week as sentiment about the job market improved and the real-estate outlook remained strong.

Fed, with bond taper on autopilot, free to tackle big questions

SAN FRANCISCO/NEW YORK (Reuters) - Federal Reserve policymakers this week are set to continue paring their massive bond-buying stimulus, but below the smooth surface of a likely unanimous vote lies a deeply divided Fed struggling to lay the groundwork for more difficult decisions ahead.

South Africa c'act gap risk to financial system stability - cbank

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's current account deficit, while shrinking, presents a marked risk to the stability of the country's financial system, the Reserve Bank said on Thursday.

Japan's Suga: Not sure if Japan, U.S. can agree on trade

(Reuters) - Japan's top government spokesman said on Friday that he is not sure whether Japan and the United States can reach an agreement in bilateral trade talks needed to push forward with the Trans-Pacific Partnership pact, unless Japan's position is accepted.