Germany seen immune to Russian woes
Germany is Russia's largest creditor but largely immune to its giant neighbour's financial woes. Economists say the prospect of turmoil and political instability in Russia cannot fail to worry Germany, but it has led markets to exaggerate its perceived vulnerability.

Swiss banks to stay unhurt by Holocaust claims: Moody's
Claims over Holocaust-era accounts could hit the credit ratings of top Swiss banks United Bank of Switzerland and Credit Suisse, but financial damage was not seen as severe, rating agency Moody's said on Thursday.

Drought costs Texas farmers $1.75 billion
Severe drought in Texas has cost the state's farmers and ranchers some $1.75 billion so far this year, according to a new estimate published on Wednesday. The Texas Agricultural Extension Service said it had raised its estimate from $1.48 billion in mid-July after getting a clearer picture of the losses incurred by livestock farmers.