Insights

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to Australian IT research body NICTA next week is a potentially awkward moment for Abbott, who has vowed to cut federal funding for the centre.

Top US conservatives have been quick to criticise yesterday's deal - calling it 'unrealistic', a 'war on coal' and a 'non-binding charade'.

Australia's most powerful female CEO is set to retire in 2015, leaving behind a healthy Westpac and a sparkling resume.

From humble beginnings, the Hazeldenes have created one of the largest chicken farming operations in Australia. Now, the third generation is wanting more control.

A 20% target would have an adverse effect on market 'certainty' as the inherently 'uncertain' nature of electricity projection would result in regular revisions of the RET.

Protest leaders seem to have accepted the inevitability of a forced end to their demonstration, but it's unlikely this will also mean the end of their movement.

Kelly goes out on a high, with the bank riding the housing boom with perfection and expanding its business operations in Asia. It will make Hartzer's job a lot easier.

For the first time, the United States and China have truly listened to one another on emissions cuts.

Taking over control of a family business is usually a difficult process, but it doesn't have to be if the succession process is handled well.

Minimum wage earners are now driving Australian wage growth; the climate change picture that will forever haunt the Coalition and throwing money at R&D doesn't guarantee innovation, but in Samsung's case, it helps.

Economic growth in the UK is expected to surge ahead over coming years, but subdued inflation has diminished the likelihood of an early rate rise.

Premiere Eastern Energy, controlled by China's Zhan family, will list on the ASX to help fund the company's petrol stations expansion across China. Others could soon follow.

Too often infrastructure projects are chosen for short-term political gain rather than for society's benefit. It's time for more open debate about infrastructure needs.

Financial stocks fell as five banks were fined $US3.4bn over allegations of manipulating the foreign exchange market, while oil prices slid further.

Leighton Holdings picks a Chinese firm as the preferred buyer for John Holland, while Macquarie is tipped as the favourite for ING Direct's loan book.

In opposition, Joe Hockey criticised Labor for releasing overly optimistic budget forecasts, but next month's MYEFO may prove to be a thorn in his side.