Insights

Almost all of the UK's leading retailers - especially the ones that Australian stores are modelled on - have delivered miserly Christmas returns. Consumers are changing the way they shop faster than most CEOs can imagine.

Saputo Inc has again lifted its stake in takeover target Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory.

Australia's transition to a clean energy economy took some political blows in 2013, but progress on the ground was heartening with energy efficiency, solar and wind all providing tangible proof of their future potential.

Dwelling investment will rise during 2014, but the shift towards cheaper, less labour-intensive high-density housing means it will not be enough to offset the mining investment cliff.

Power consumption fell again in 2013, dipping 2.8 per cent across the National Electricity Market as scheduled renewables rose to 12 per cent of the market.

An Australian think-tank headed by retired military types, including a former Howard government governor-general, has offered an alluring vision for the Coalition - irrigate the north and solve carbon emissions. Pity it won't work.

Federal Reserve Vice Chairwoman Janet Yellen expects to see a stronger US economy in 2014.

Forge Group has requested its shares be placed in a trading halt.

Alcoa Inc has recorded a $US1.72 billion impairment charge.

The unparalleled Google Analytics service means Google knows more about internet users than anyone else. And runner up, Facebook, must go further to mine precious user insights if it wants to compete.

United States stocks closed little changed.

Europe's fierce storms have sent wind turbines wild, pumping power into the continent's grid and driving electricity prices into negative territory.

The European Central Bank is too focussed on the long-term outlook when eurozone countries need desperate and immediate relief. Failing to cut rates last night will lead to further disinflation and slower growth.

With unemployment tipped to rise this year, some Australian communities will be hit particularly hard - including areas not usually associated with social disadvantage.

France's head of public audit said the country's debt had reached a 'danger zone', adding to a generally weak day for European markets.

NAB may offload its costly UK banking business, Clydesdale Bank, while the battle for Warrnambool Cheese & Butter may see a last-minute entrant.