Reuters - The U.S. economic downturn has spread personal financial worries far and wide, but women are more worried about paying bills, losing jobs, providing for children and saving for retirement, according to a study released on Thursday.

Reuters - A record drop in U.S. imports because of slowing domestic demand took a big bite out of the U.S. trade deficit in March despite record high oil prices.

Reuters - Goldman Sachs economists expect a total of $500 billion in residential mortgage credit losses, a renewed slowdown in economic activity after the near-term boost from fiscal stimulus, and no monetary policy tightening in 2008 or 2009, according to a research note from the firm.

AP - The U.S. trade deficit narrowed sharply in March as demand for imports fell by the largest amount since the last recession was ending. Analysts forecast that trade would continue to be one of the economy's few bright spots this year.

AP - Oil rose above $126 a barrel for the first time Friday, bringing its advance this week to nearly $10, as investors questioned whether a possible confrontation between the U.S. and Venezuela could cut exports from the OPEC member. Gas prices, meanwhile, rose above an average $3.67 a gallon at the pump, following oil's recent path higher.

Reuters - Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson on Thursday said that problems with a housing relief bill under debate in the House of Representatives are "not insurmountable" and he would work toward a bill that President George W. Bush could sign.

Reuters - Stocks rose on Thursday as a surge in global commodity prices propelled mining and energy shares higher, while technology shares gained after a top strategist said they were a good value.

AP - Wall Street closed a quiet session with a moderate advance Thursday, with energy and other commodities companies leading the market as oil prices extended their record-breaking run.

Reuters - Retail sales rebounded in April after the worst March in 13 years, as warmer weather boosted demand for spring and summer apparel, while most discounters shined as cash-strapped consumers hunted for bargains.

Reuters - The number of U.S. workers filing claims for initial jobless benefits fell last week and retail sales rebounded last month from a dismal March, suggesting the economy, while soft, was not crumbling rapidly.