1.   The cost was much higher but the right steps were taken to avoid bankrupting the country.

2.   Asian stock markets closed mostly higher Wednesday, with Japan and Hong Kong finishing higher but some smaller markets ending the day with a loss.

3.   Grains were higher but soybeans lower at the open of trading Thursday on the Chicago Board of Trade.

4.   Investors moved cautiously in early trading Tuesday, bidding blue chips higher but pushing tech stocks lower.

5.   Singapore and Manila were slightly higher but Jakarta and Bangkok fell.

6.   Machinery sales were higher but the company reported lower revenue from steel frames for shipbuiding and defense equipment.