11.   And even though smaller independent drillers have cut back, most larger oil companies are holding firm.

12.   And, specialists say, more and more companies will hold the annual holiday party away from the office to reduce the risk of a liability claim.

13.   As for higher petroleum prices working their way into other products, Pfund of Rubbermaid insists his company will hold the line on its plastic cans and kitchenware.

14.   At noon Thursday, the company will hold a news conference in Washington to announce that it will share its Alto technology with its competitors.

15.   Bank stocks tend to benefit from a surge in bonds, since financial companies hold large bond portfolios.

16.   Banks and insurance companies got a boost from rising bond prices, which boost the value of the large bond portfolios financial-service companies usually hold.

17.   Because of the difficulties in firing employees, many companies are holding excess workers.

18.   Both companies have held onto their chemical businesses, and both reported big jumps in sales and profits this week.

19.   A Berkshire Hathaway spokeswoman declined comment on whether the company still holds these stakes.

20.   A company must hold the securities purchased for customer accounts.