Japan posts a rare trade deficit

Global liquidity crisis 'is over'
The head of Japan's leading brokerage, Nomura Holdings, suggests that the global liquidity crisis is over.

Japanese economy now in recession
Japan's economy falls into its first recession since 2001 after shrinking by 0.1% in the July to September quarter.

Bush warns over 'protectionism'
The US president says he is pleased with progress in leaders' talks on the financial crisis, but warns against "protectionism".

Munich Re profit almost wiped out
German reinsurance giant Munich Re sees its quarterly profits almost wiped out by the financial crisis and hurricane claims.

EU holds financial reform summit
EU leaders gather in Brussels to co-ordinate their approach to the financial crisis ahead of a global summit in Washington.