Business

Fed chief expected to clarify next steps

WASHINGTON – Federal Reserve officials begin a pivotal two-day meeting Tuesday facing a dilemma. The economy is showing enough improvement to justify dialing back some of the Fed’s life support, yet financial markets are terrified of what might happen and are taking it out on the housing sector.

Thrifty says offer for free rental was error

DALLAS – Thrifty Car Rental says it’s sorry, but many customers who were offered a free one-day rental won’t be getting that after all.

Lowe’s makes offer for Sears spinoff Orchard Supply

Lowe’s plans to expand its California presence with an acquisition of Sears spinoff Orchard Supply Hardware Stores for about $205 million in cash.

Homebuilders optimism hits a new high

For the first time in seven years, most U.S. homebuilders are optimistic about home sales, a sign that construction could help drive stronger economic growth in coming months.

US, EU agree to start next month on free-trade deal

The European Union and the United States will open negotiations next month on a long-sought deal to create free trade between the world’s two mightiest economic regions, an effort designed to create millions of jobs that could take years to transform from dream to reality.

New 787-10 might be built only in South Carolina

PARIS – Boeing’s biggest news of the Paris Air Show is likely to be the launch of the 787-10, the third and largest model of the Dreamliner.

Honing digital life can save time and money

Tech Tips NEW YORK — As the year began, I decided I would get serious about digital cleanup — to save money and improve my online life.

Indian Summer survives recession, looks to grow club membership

Indian Summer Golf & Country Club, like every other organization and company in the country, has emerged from the recession and now is focused on the future.

Online sales tax might help state, but it’s not a simple matter

Online shopping soon might become more lucrative for state government. Even if Congress doesn’t open the Internet to state sales taxes, a more modest change is brewing in Olympia — but drawing some of the same opponents.

Airbus test flies 787 competitor

PARIS – Airbus sent a new wide-body plane into the skies Friday that sets the stage for intensifying competition with U.S. rival Boeing, with consequences for jobs, airlines’ investments and the reputations of the plane makers.