51.   At first glance, the dispute seems to be over issues, like wage increases, that might be resolved relatively easily.

52.   At issue were wage increases, the possible loss of teacher preparation time and proposals that all teachers pay part of their health insurance premiums.

53.   At the same time, the musicians turned down a proposal that would have made any benefits and wage increases from a contract agreement retroactive.

54.   At the same time, wage increases were limited, easing concern that inflation could lead to higher interest rates.

55.   Auto workers are pushing a wage increase.

56.   Bank president Massad said last week he wants to see a decline in underlying inflation and wage increases before cutting rates.

57.   Baily noted productivity gains that offset the wage increases.

58.   Besides a productivity-linked wage increase, the proposals include a pension increase, more trainee jobs and more opportunities for older employees to work a shorter workweek.

59.   Bonds were little changed after the Icon economic research institute said Western German consumer confidence grew in October, amid greater optimism about wage increases next year.

60.   Bonuses are cheaper than wage increases for the automakers because they do not permanently raise their labor costs.