Berkshire Reports Better Year

A strong stock market and a steady stream of premiums from its vast insurance holdings helped Berkshire Hathaway Inc. bounce back last year from a rough 2008 but the company underperformed the broader market, results released early Saturday showed.

Greek Crisis Nears Showdown

Greece prepared additional austerity measures and its prime minister met with the head of Germany's top bank, as the country raced to soothe international concerns ahead of a crucial bond sale it may hold next week.

Gatorade Drops Woods

PepsiCo.'s Gatorade said it had broken off its sponsorship of Tiger Woods, one week after the golf superstar apologized for his sex scandal.

Toyota Accused of Withholding Records

Internal documents show Toyota withheld records in court cases involving rollover accidents, a House committee chairman investigating the car maker said. Toyota said it has acted appropriately and trial lawyers were skeptical of the value of the documents.

The Next Oracle of Omaha: David Sokol?

The chairman of a Berkshire unit could be Buffett's successor; some Buffett watchers have doubts.

Dodd Proposes Bureau of Financial Protection

Christopher Dodd is circulating a plan to create a Bureau of Financial Protection within the Treasury Department to supervise mortgages, credit cards and other financial products.

Justices to Weigh Venue in Skilling Case

The Supreme Court will hear former Enron executive Jeffrey Skilling's appeal of his fraud and conspiracy convictions, in a case with possible implications for high-profile criminal defendants. Skilling's key claim is that he couldn't get a fair trial in Houston.

Fannie Posts $72 Billion Loss for '09

Fannie Mae reported a $72 billion loss for 2009, underscoring the challenges that still face the largest U.S. mortgage financier and offering more grim news for taxpayers who may ultimately pick up the bill.

Utility Taps Bush Bigwigs

Former Bush administration staffers are helping a Texas firm controlled by three big private-equity funds, underscoring how critical government relations are for utilities.

Muted End to Strong Month for Dow

The Dow industrials rose 4.23 points to 10325.26. The measure finished up 2.6% for the month, its best performance since a 6.5% gain in November.

Researchers Say Google Attack Was More Widespread

Recent cyber attacks disclosed by Google could have targeted more than 100 companies, far more than previously believed, one security researcher said.

MGM Gets Extension on Debt

MGM Mirage lenders agreed to give debt-laden casino operator two more years to repay $4.37 billion, a sign of the thawing market for corporate debt.