Daily FNArena News

Poor manufacturing and housing numbers have sent the Dow into retreat, while gold shakes off the oil price and reacts firmly to the US dollar.

Downer EDI is believed to be circling around UK-listed Amec, our sources in London inform us.

Due to a busy meeting schedule today Rudi On Thursday will be published tomorrow. So will this month’s edition of the Australian Super Stock Report.

Analysts concur that weakened sentiment due to reports of increased domestic Chinese iron ore production is unfounded, and that the 2007 round of contract negotiations will again see price increases.

The Bank of Japan’s half-yearly review of economic conditions has seen inflation expectations revised down, but continues to suggest there will be further increases in interest rates.

Merrill Lynch has revised its interest rate outlook for the US, expecting the rate cut cycle to last longer and go further than the market is currently pricing in.

At least two economic teams have analysed the recent poor US GDP growth numbers and decided the result is actually more positive than negative.

National Australia Bank’s September Retail Report shows a slight improvement in conditions generally, but inconsistent numbers across different industries and regions.

ABN Amro has become the latest broker to upgrade its uranium price forecast, prompting a significant target price increase.

Brokers are unanimous that Cemex, or anyone else, will need to pay more than $17.00 to secure Rinker.