21.   Both International Paper and Finnish company UPM-Kymmene sweetened their bids for Champion.

22.   But analysts were divided on whether Olivetti would have to sweeten its bid in order to win over Telecom shareholders.

23.   Some observers believe Unilever will sweeten its bid, and that a deal could be completed as early as next week.

24.   Turkey may sweeten its bid by offering to shoulder more of the bill for a new pipeline.

25.   Vodafone Airtouch AG was an exception to the strength in technology shares, falling after the company sweetened its bid for German wireless company Mannesmann AG.

26.   Japan sweetened its bid with plans to develop a virtual stadium -- a dome-shaped screen carrying three-dimensional television pictures of games in progress at other venues.