German stocks - Factors to watch on April 1

BERLIN/FRANKFURT, April 1 (Reuters) - The following are some of the factors that may move German stocks on Friday:


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Citigroup transfers coinsurance agreement with Primerica to Swiss Re

March 31 (Reuters) - Citigroup Inc replaced Prime Reinsurance Company Inc with a subsidiary of Swiss Re Life & Health America Inc as Primerica Life Insurance Company's reinsurer on a coinsurance agreement, the U.S. bank said on Thursday.


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Tesla Model 3 to go into production in 2017 -CEO Musk

HAWTHORNE, California, March 31 (Reuters) - Tesla Motors gave a sneak preview Thursday of its $35,000 electric car that is critical to the Silicon Valley auto maker's growth plans and soaring stock value.











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U.S. asks Deutsche, JPMorgan to give details on 1MDB dealings -sources

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 (Reuters) - Officials of the U.S. Department of Justice have asked Deutsche Bank and JPMorgan for details of their dealings with Malaysia's 1MDB, as global investigations into the troubled state fund widen, banking sources said on Friday.











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BRIEF-Court confirms Molycorp's fourth joint amended plan of reorganization

* Court confirms Molycorp, Inc.'s fourth joint amended plan of reorganization, paves way for company's emergence from chapter 11


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UPDATE 1-Tesla fans camp out, form long lines to sign up for new Model 3

LA JOLLA, Calif., March 31 (Reuters) - Fans of luxury electric car maker Tesla Motors Inc camped out overnight and stood in long lines to put down deposits on its new more affordable model, due to be unveiled at an event on Thursday evening.


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GLOBAL MARKETS-Asia shares led lower by Japan, dollar still groggy

* China factory surveys surprise on upside, data mixed elsewhere











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Mexico's proven oil and gas reserves fell 21 pct last year

MEXICO CITY, March 31 (Reuters) - Mexico's proven oil and gas reserves dropped 21.3 percent in 2015, the oil regulator said on Thursday, as the state-run oil company, Pemex, cut back on investment because of plunging crude prices.


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UPDATE 1-Workers at Cerro Verde copper mine in Peru plan strike next week

LIMA, March 31 (Reuters) - Workers at Freeport McMoRan Inc's Cerro Verde mine in Peru plan to go on a 48-hour strike April 8 to protest what they describe as the near disappearance of their profit-sharing bonus this year, the union said Thursday.











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UPDATE 1-Third Point, Jana gain in March, Greenlight Capital flat

BOSTON, March 31 (Reuters) - Billionaire hedge fund investors Daniel Loeb and Barry Rosenstein made money in March when the stock market came back with stronger gains, but both men's funds are still in the red for the year, sources familiar with their performance said.


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PRESS DIGEST- British Business - April 1

The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.











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BRIEF-Cardiovascular Systems says expects revenue to range from $43.5 mln to $44 mln for qtr

* Cardiovascular Systems Reports Stronger Than Expected Preliminary Fiscal Third-Quarter revenue











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Investors pull money from junk bonds; move into cash -Lipper

(New throughout; adds data for mutual funds and ETFs, byline) By Trevor Hunnicutt NEW YORK, March 31 (Reuters) - Risk aversion was on display in funds this week as investors poured $12.1 billion into U.S.-based money market funds and $112 million into U.S.-based corporate investment-grade bond funds with riskier junk bond funds posting withdrawals, Lipper data showed on Thursday. The shift came as U.S.-based stock mutual funds posted $4 billion in outflows and U.S.-based taxable b











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BRIEF-Blackhawk Network Acquires Extrameasures

* Blackhawk Network Acquires Extrameasures Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1 646 223 8780)











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BRIEF-Online ordering at Tesla.com for Model 3 will now open at 730 pm pacific - Elon Musk tweet

* Online ordering at Tesla.com for Model 3 will now open at 7:30 pm pacific to ensure no server overload; presentation still at 8:30 - Elon Musk tweet Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1 646 223 8780)


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BRIEF-Columbia Pacific says pleased with reconstitution of Terago board

* Columbia Pacific pleased with reconstitution of terago inc. Board


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UPDATE 1-Uber CEO must face price-fixing lawsuit by passengers -U.S. judge

NEW YORK, March 31 (Reuters) - Travis Kalanick, chief executive officer of Uber Technologies Inc, failed on Thursday to win the dismissal of an antitrust lawsuit accusing him of scheming to drive up prices for passengers who use the popular ride-sharing service.











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Archer Daniels Midland in deal to sell Brazil sugar ethanol operations

CHICAGO, March 31 (Reuters) - Archer Daniels Midland Co has struck a deal to sell a sugarcane ethanol plant in Brazil after searching for a buyer for four years, the agribusiness company said on Thursday.


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CANADA STOCKS-TSX notches best monthly gain since 2011 on oil rebound

TORONTO, March 31 (Reuters) - Canada's main stock index ended slightly lower on Thursday as losses for materials and financial stocks canceled out advances for energy stocks, whose recent strength helped the index notch its best monthly performance in more than four years.











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BRIEF-Sunwah International announces extension of revolving loan term

* Sunwah International announces extension of revolving loan term


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What to Watch in the Day Ahead - Friday, April 1

(The Day Ahead is an email and PDF publication that includes the day's major stories and events, analyses and other features. To receive The Day Ahead, Eikon users can register at . Thomson One users can register at RT/DAY/US. All times in ET/GMT) The U.S. Labor Department's closely watched employment report is expected to show that nonfarm payrolls increased by 205,000 jobs in March after increasing by 242,000 in February. (0830/1230) March unemployment rate is expected to have held steady











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UPDATE 3-McDonald's to add more than 1,000 outlets in China

* Stock touches record high (Adds analyst quote, details; updates shares)











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U.S. regulator sues Navistar ex-CEO Ustian

March 31 (Reuters) - The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Thursday filed a civil lawsuit against former Navistar International Corp Chief Executive Daniel Ustian, accusing him of fraud.


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BRIEF-Southwest Airlines to serve Long Beach airport from June 5

* Southwest Airlines to serve Long Beach airport beginning June 5, 2016


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Canada's Rogers to offer sports channels as streaming services

TORONTO, March 31 (Reuters) - Canada's Rogers Communications Inc, the primary national broadcaster of National Hockey League games, said on Thursday it will begin selling its top sports channels online without a cable subscription.











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UPDATE 1-Brazil prosecutors charge prominent banker Safra in bribe scheme

BRASILIA, March 31 (Reuters) - Brazilian prosecutors charged Joseph Safra, ranked as the world's richest banker, in connection with an alleged scheme to pay bribes to government officials in return for waiving up to $500 million in corporate tax debts, the prosecutors' office said in a statement on Thursday.


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BRIEF-Mauna Kea says first Cellvizio order placed by UGAP

* First Cellvizio order placed by UGAP, France's largest hospital purchasing group, for Avignon's hospital complex











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Canada court seeks Vice News reporter's chat logs with alleged militant

TORONTO, March 31 (Reuters) - A Canadian court has ordered a Vice News reporter to give police his communications with a man police have alleged is an Islamic State fighter and charged with terrorism-related offences.


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BRIEF-Nexans to close its cable factory dedicated to defense market in the US

* To close its cable factory dedicated to defense market in the US











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MOVES-Generali Investments appointed Jorg Asmussen to its board

March 31 (Reuters) - Generali Investments, the main asset manager of insurance company Generali Group, said it appointed Jorg Asmussen as an independent director to its board, effective immediately.











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Moody's launches service to assess green bonds

* Methodology to score green bonds according to five criteria


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Canada's TD Bank confident oil & gas loan losses will be "manageable"

TORONTO, March 31 (Reuters) - Toronto Dominion Bank, Canada's second biggest bank, said on Thursday that it expected losses from bad loans in the oil & gas sector to be manageable given its relatively small exposure to the energy sector.











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BRIEF-Intercloud Systems awarded new contracts valued at over $3.6 mln

* Intercloud Systems awarded new contracts valued at over $3.6 million


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BRIEF-America First Multifamily issues $10 mln series A preferred units

* America first multifamily investors, l.p. Issues $10 million series A preferred units











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Saban, Disney invest in digital content firm Playbuzz

TEL AVIV, March 31 (Reuters) - Playbuzz, a U.S.-Israeli platform for distributing online content, has raised $15 million in funding led by Saban Ventures, with participation from Walt Disney Co.


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BRIEF-Peabody Energy cuts 235 jobs in Powder River basin

* Peabody energy reduces approximately 235 positions at north antelope rochelle flagship to continue to match production with demand Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom +1-646-223-8780)











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BRIEF-Corbus Pharmaceuticals announces addition of Phase 2 clinical protocol for resunab treatment to FDA IND

* Addition of Phase 2 clinical protocol for resunab treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus to FDA IND


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MOVES- Citi, UBS, Credit Suisse

March 31 (Reuters) - The following financial services industry appointments were announced on Thursday. To inform us of other job changes, email moves@thomsonreuters.com.











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BRIEF-Cara to buy St-Hubert for $537 million

* Entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of groupe St-Hubert Inc


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GLOBAL MARKETS-Roller-coaster Q1 ends with shares, oil under pressure

* European shares fall 1 pct, dollar at seven-week lows vs euro


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U.S. Senator seeks investigation of insurers over retirement rule

WASHINGTON, March 31 (Reuters) - Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Massachusetts Democrat who advocates for strong financial regulation, asked U.S. securities regulators on Thursday to investigate comments made by major insurance companies about a forthcoming federal rule on retirement advice.











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Chinese AI team plans to challenge Google's AlphaGo -state media

BEIJING, March 31 (Reuters) - A team from China plans to challenge Google's AlphaGo, the artificial intelligence (AI) programme that beat a world-class player in the ancient board game Go, the state-owned Shanghai Securities News reported on Thursday.


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BRIEF-TSMC orders machinery from Hitachi Kokusai, Screen Semiconductor, Tokyo Electron, KLA-Tencor, Applied Materials

March 31 (Reuters) - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd











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Telecom stocks tumble as European shares slip back

LONDON, March 31 (Reuters) - European shares fell on Thursday, retreating after solid gains in the previous session following dovish comments from the head of the U.S. Federal Reserve, while French telecom stocks underperformed.


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French PM joins critics of PSA chief executive's pay increase

PARIS, March 31 (Reuters) - French Prime Minister Manuel Valls criticised a near doubling in pay for PSA Peugeot Citroen chief executive Carlos Tavares, saying it sent the wrong signals to the carmaker's staff and the French people.











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MSCI says competition issues could keep China "A" shares out of EM index

HONG KONG, March 31 (Reuters) - Index provider MSCI Inc said on Wednesday that alleged anti-competitive behaviour by China's exchanges may keep mainland Chinese shares out of a major investment benchmark, adding to the hurdles China must jump before its stocks can be admitted.


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Nikkei falls to near 2-week low on strong yen; tumbles 12 pct on quarter

TOKYO, March 31 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei fell in choppy trade on Thursday to a near two-week low as a stronger yen trimmed the profit outlook for exporters, while investors stayed on the sidelines on the final day of Japan's financial year looking for more catalysts ahead.











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European Factors to Watch-Shares seen opening lower

LONDON, March 31 (Reuters) - European stocks were seen opening lower on Thursday, with weaker commodity prices expected to weigh on markets after they rose in the previous session.


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UK Stocks-Factors to watch on March 31

March 31 (Reuters) - Britain's FTSE 100 index is seen opening down 14 points, or 0.2 percent, on Thursday, according to financial bookmakers. For more on the factors affecting European stocks, please click on * The UK blue chip index closed up 1.6 percent on Wednesday at 6,203.17, recording its highest closing level of 2016, boosted by the mining sector after Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen called for caution on raising interest rates, lifting riskier assets. * U.S FED: Federal











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Unit of China's Guosen defaults on dim sum yuan bond - FT

HONG KONG, March 31 (Reuters) - A unit of China's Guosen Securities, one of the country's largest brokerages, has defaulted on a Hong Kong-traded yuan bond, the Financial Times reported on Thursday, citing a document seen by the paper.


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Eletrobras posts Q4 loss of $2.85 bln on impairments, provisions

SAO PAULO, March 30 (Reuters) - Brazil's state-run Eletrobras, Latin America's largest electricity utility, posted on Wednesday a net loss of 10.438 billion reais ($2.85 billion) for the fourth quarter, due to impairments and provisions for potential legal liabilities.











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BRIEF-Sky Solar Holdings reports Q4 loss per share $0.02

* Sky solar holdings, ltd. Reports fourth quarter and full year 2015 unaudited financial results


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UPDATE 1-Kia Motors to start Mexico output in first half of year as scheduled

SEOUL/MEXICO CITY, March 30 (Reuters) - Kia Motors expects to start production at its first Mexico factory in the first half of the year as planned, although the local government says the investment deal with the South Korean company is not legal and requires serious changes.











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BRIEF-Spanish Broadcasting System says to reschedule Q4 and FY earnings release

* To file form 12b-25 with sec to obtain additional time to file annual report on form 10-k for year ended dec 31, 2015


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BRIEF-Landmark Infrastructure Partners LP announces pricing of public offering of series A preferred units

* Landmark infrastructure partners lp announces pricing of public offering of series a preferred units











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GLOBAL MARKETS-Asia stocks rise after Wall St gains, dollar sags

TOKYO, March 31 (Reuters) - Asian shares rose on Thursday, taking early cues from Wall Street gains overnight, as receding worries of near-term U.S. interest rate hikes continued to buoy risk sentiment.


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PRESS DIGEST- British Business - March 31

The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.











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BRIEF-First Industrial Realty trust announces pricing of 5.6 mln shares of common stock offering

* First industrial realty trust, inc. Announces pricing of common stock offering


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BRIEF-First American Financial says CEO Dennis J. Gilmore's Total compensation in FY 2015 was $5.7 mln

* Says CEO Dennis J. Gilmore's total compensation for fy 2015 was $5.7 million versus $5.6 million in fy 2014 - sec filing Source text (http://1.usa.gov/1Y1eMmg) Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; +1 646 223 8780)











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BRIEF-XG Technology files for non-timely 10-K

* Files for non-timely 10-K Source text: http://1.usa.gov/1qkg3dy Further company coverage:


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UPDATE 1-Pentagon mulls future use of drones to assist manned aircraft

WASHINGTON, March 30 (Reuters) - The Pentagon is examining how it might use unmanned craft in the future to accompany piloted battlecraft, likely starting with drones that would fly alongside manned aircraft, a senior Pentagon official said on Wednesday.


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BRIEF-Claude reports earnings per share c$0.06

* Claude achieves record gold production in 2015 and generates $32.3 million in earnings











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UPDATE 1-BlackRock planning to cut 400 jobs -source

March 30 (Reuters) - Global asset manager BlackRock Inc is planning to cut about 400 jobs, or 3 percent of its workforce, as it redirects resources to growth areas, a person familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.











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BRIEF-PBF Logistics to offer common units representing limited partner interests

* Pbf logistics lp announces public offering of common units representing limited partner interests


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LATAM CLOSE-No deals price in LatAm primary market

* Rousseff popularity close to record low * Argentine Senate set to pass creditor deal * Mexico's ICA posts net 4Q loss, debt woes mount By Mike Gambale NEW YORK, March 30 (IFR) - No deals priced in LatAm primary market on Wednesday. Here is a snapshot of LatAm sovereign credit spreads: SOVEREIGN 3/29 3/28 3/24 1D 10D YTD 2015/16 HIGH BARBADOS 651 647 646 4 13 47 659 (2/11/16) BRAZIL 390 390 402 0











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BRIEF-Medovex says unable to file Form 10-K within prescribed time period - SEC filing

* Says it is unable to file its Form 10-k for period ended Dec. 31, 2015 within prescribed time period - SEC filing


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BRIEF-Parkland Fuel announces filing of C$500 mln preliminary base shelf prospectus

* Parkland fuel corporation announces filing of C$500 million preliminary base shelf prospectus Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:











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BRIEF-Hilcorp embargoes portion on Arrowhead Louisiana crude line - FERC

HOUSTON, March 30 (Reuters) - Hilcorp Energy has embargoed crude shipments into the Ostrica/Empire terminal on its Arrowhead Louisiana Gathering system effective immediately to conduct integrity work on the pipeline, according a U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission filing on Wednesday.


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Calfornia lawmakers urge CalPERS to divest from Exxon

WASHINGTON, March 30 (Reuters) - Two California Democratic congressmen on Wednesday urged the California Public Employees Retirement System, the largest U.S. public pension fund, to divest from oil giant ExxonMobil over its handling of the issue of climate change.


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BRIEF-Coca Cola Bottling Co Consolidated CEO J. Frank Harrison III's 2015 compensation $8.2 mln - SEC filing

* CEO J. Frank Harrison, III's 2015 total compensation was $8.2 million versus $7.7 million in 2014 - SEC filing











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Chubb adds cyber bullying coverage to U.S. home insurance policies

March 30 (Reuters) - Insurer Chubb Ltd said on Wednesday it has added coverage to help U.S. victims of cyber bullying pay for costs, including mental health treatment, legal expenses and lost wages.


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UPDATE 2-Carnival profit beats; says no impact from Brussels attacks

* Q1 adj shr 39 cents vs est. of 32 cents (Adds details from conference call, analyst comment; updates shares)











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BRIEF-xG technology receives NASDAQ notification confirming 180 day extension of compliance period

* xG technology receives NASDAQ notification confirming 180 day extension of compliance period Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:











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UPDATE 2-Kinross okays first-phase expansion of North Africa mine

March 30 (Reuters) - Kinross Gold Corp said on Wednesday it plans to go ahead with a $300 million, first-phase expansion of its Tasiast gold mine in North Africa that will nearly double the mine's production and slash its production costs.


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CORRECTED-UPDATE 1-Kinross estimates $920 mln spending for N. Africa mine expansion

March 30 (Reuters) - Kinross Gold Corp estimated it would have to spend $920 million on a two-phase expansion of its Tasiast mine in Mauritania in North Africa, lower than it had earlier estimated.











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Avianca holding off receiving new plane deliveries - president

SANTIAGO, March 30 (Reuters) - Avianca Holdings, one of Latin America's largest airlines, is delaying receiving a shipment of new planes as it seeks to ease its capital expenditure needs, its president told Reuters in an interview late Tuesday.


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UPDATE 1-Loss at Mexico's ICA quintuples to $615 mln in 4th-qtr

MEXICO CITY, March 30 (Reuters) - The net loss at Mexican construction company ICA widened in the fourth quarter to 10.591 billion pesos ($615 million), more than five times the loss in the same period a year earlier, the company reported on Wednesday.











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US STOCKS-Wall St higher as rate hike concerns ease

* Indexes up: Dow 0.63 pct, S&P 0.52 pct, Nasdaq 0.66 pct (Updates to open)


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Twenty-First Century interested in Paramount stake - NY Post

March 30 (Reuters) - Twenty-First Century Fox Inc is interested in acquiring a minority stake in Viacom Inc's Paramount Pictures, the New York Post reported, citing sources.


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BRIEF-Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust now estimates 2016 FFO of $1.79-$1.87/share

March 30 (Reuters) - Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust











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BRIEF-BP signs framework agreement to explore opportunities for investment Kuwait Petroleum Corp

* BP and Kuwait Petroleum Corporation sign agreement outlining cooperation on oil, gas and petrochemicals


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Dollarama reports 25 pct rise in profit, names Neil Rossy CEO

March 30 (Reuters) - Canadian discount retailer Dollarama Inc reported a 25 percent jump in quarterly net profit as comparable store sales rose nearly 8 percent.











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BRIEF-Dollarama Inc says Neil Rossy to become president and CEO

* Rossy to succeed Larry Rossy who will remain active as executive chairman











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MOVES-Andrew Larkin rejoins ITG as managing director

March 30 (Reuters) - Investment Technology Group Inc , a broker and financial technology provider, said Andrew Larkin would rejoin the firm on April 11 as managing director in charge of its POSIT alert client coverage.


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European shares rise, with Metro and miners outperforming

* Steelmakers rise on consolidation hopes (ADVISORY- Reuters plans to replace intra-day European and UK stock market reports with a Live Markets blog on Eikon - see cpurl://apps.cp./cms/?pageId=livemarkets for site in development. See the bottom of the report. Adds details, update prices)











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K+S CFO Lohr set to replace CEO Steiner - German magazine Bilanz

FRANKFURT, March 30 (Reuters) - The finance chief of German potash and salt miner K+S, Burkhard Lohr, is set to be promoted to the top job, replacing Chief Executive Officer Norbert Steiner, German magazine Bilanz cited company sources as saying.


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UPDATE 3-Thousands of jobs at risk as India's Tata Steel seeks British exit

* Includes Port Talbot, UK's biggest steelworks (Adds UK government reaction)











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BRIEF-Intact Gold announces two-for-one stock split

* Intact Gold - Will forward split all shares of co on a basis of two new common share for every one existing common shares held


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BRIEF-Lockheed Martin - Straightline Aviation signed a letter of intent to purchase up to 12 Lockheed Martin hybrid airships with a potential value of approximately $480 million

* Lockheed Martin - Straightline Aviation signed a letter of intent to purchase up to 12 Lockheed Martin hybrid airships with a potential value of approximately $480 million


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UPDATE 1-McCormick raises possible offer for Premier Foods

March 30 (Reuters) - U.S. spice company McCormick & Co raised its possible offer for Britain's Premier Foods Plc, calling Premier's board to engage to agree on a recommended offer.


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European shares climb, with retailer Metro and miners outperforming

LONDON, March 30 (Reuters) - European shares rose on Wednesday as Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen called for caution on raising interest rates, boosting equities, while German retailer Metro surged on demerger plans.











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Nikkei falls on stronger yen, caution ahead of U.S. jobs data

TOKYO, March 30 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks fell on Wednesday as the yen strengthened against the dollar after U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen called for caution on raising interest rates, with the stronger yen weighing on Japan's exporters.











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UPDATE 1-UK Stocks-Factors to watch on March 30

March 30 (Reuters) - Britain's FTSE 100 index is seen opening up on Wednesday, with futures up 0.9 percent at 0617 GMT. For more on the factors affecting European stocks, please click on


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UK Stocks-Factors to watch on March 30

March 30 (Reuters) - Britain's FTSE 100 index is seen opening up 39 points, or 0.6 percent, on Wednesday, according to financial bookmakers. For more on the factors affecting European stocks, please click on * The UK blue chip index closed 0.58 points lower on Tuesday at 6105.90 after a drop in commodity-related items intensified and banks turned lower following the Bank of England's latest financial stability report. * TATA STEEL: Britain's largest steelmaker is considering the sale


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GLOBAL MARKETS-Shares, bonds rally, dollar off as Yellen hedges on rates

SYDNEY, March 30 (Reuters) - Asian shares rallied on Wednesday as markets pared back expectations for how fast and how far U.S. interest rates might rise this year, bruising the dollar and boosting sovereign bonds.











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BRIEF-Comstock Mining prices underwritten public offering at $0.35 per share

* Pricing of an underwritten public offering of 10 million shares of its common stock at a price to public of $0.35 per share Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; ; +1 646 223 8780)











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Kia Motors says to start Mexico output in first-half as scheduled

SEOUL, March 30 (Reuters) - Kia Motors expects to start production at its first Mexico factory in the first half of this year as planned, despite local government calls for a change to an investment deal reached with the South Korean company.


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BRIEF-Store Capital says secondary offering priced at $25.25 per share

* Store capital announces pricing of secondary offering of shares of common stock











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BRIEF-Surgery partners announces pricing of $400 million senior note offering

* Surgery partners announces pricing of $400 million senior note offering


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American Apparel names former Liz Claiborne head as chairman

March 29 (Reuters) - Teen apparel retailer American Apparel Llc has named the former head of handbag retailer Liz Claiborne Inc as chairman of its new board of directors, according to a letter to the company's wholesale customers obtained by Reuters.


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Brazil demand for Argentine corn seen as short-term

SAO PAULO/BUENOS AIRES, March 29 (Reuters) - After surprising grain markets this week with its biggest purchase of Argentine corn in over 15 years, traders said Brazil's import needs were not likely to persist beyond the start of winter harvest due onstream in the second half of 2016.











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BRIEF-American apparel names former Liz Claiborne CEO as new chairman - Bloomberg

* Paul Charron, who ran Claiborne until 2006, will be one of three new directors at American Apparel- Bloomberg, citing letter sent to wholesale customers


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BRIEF-Sierra Metals 2016 production guidance of 10.4 - 12.8 mln Ag Eq Oz

March 29 (Reuters) - Sierra Metals Reports Fourth Quarter And Year











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BRIEF-Wesdome Gold Mines says Q4 earnings per share C$0.01

* Wesdome announces 2015 fourth quarter and full year financial and operational results


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UPDATE 2-FDA panel backs Acadia drug for psychosis linked to Parkinson's

March 29 (Reuters) - An advisory panel to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration backed an approval for Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc's drug for psychosis related to Parkinson's disease.











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BRIEF-Claire's Stores says Q4 sales fell 2.4 percent to $402.6 million

* Claire's stores, inc. Reports preliminary unaudited fiscal 2015 fourth quarter and full year results


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BRIEF-Northwestern reaffirms fy 2016 adjusted non-gaap earnings per share view $3.20 to $3.40

* Reaffirms fy 2016 adjusted non-gaap earnings per share view $3.20 to $3.40











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MOVES- CEO leaves US real estate lobby group

NEW YORK, March 29 (IFR) - Steve Renna, CEO and president of powerful real estate lobby group CRE Finance Council, has left the organization, a spokesperson told IFR on Tuesday.











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UPDATE 1-Chinese group to buy control of fashion labels Sandro, Maje-sources

PARIS, March 29 (Reuters) - Chinese textile group Shandong Ruyi is about to buy control of SMCP, the French firm behind fashion brands Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlot, for 1.3 billion euros ($1.47 billion)including debt, two sources close to the deal said on Tuesday.


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India approves foreign investment in e-commerce sector

MUMBAI, March 29 (Reuters) - India on Tuesday approved 100 percent foreign investment in marketplace e-commerce companies, formalising rules for the first time for the multi-billion dollar sector.


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BRIEF-KKR plans to sell SMCP to China's Shandong Ruyi - FT

* KKR plans to sell SMCP to China's Shandong Ruyi in a deal that values the french fashion group at 1.3 bln euros including debt- FT, citing sources











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US STOCKS-Dow, S&P slightly lower ahead of Yellen speech

* Dow down 0.23 pct, S&P down 0.10 pct, Nasdaq up 0.41 pct (Updates to early afternoon)











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BRIEF-Lennar says modest moves in interest rates is net positive for housing

* CEO - "modest moves in interest rates, tight to low unemployment and some wage growth will be a net positive for housing" - conf call


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BRIEF-Durect licensee, Pain Therapeutics resubmitts NDA for Remoxy to U.S. FDA

* Durect announces resubmission of Remoxy New Drug Application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration


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BRIEF-Deere enters JV with Hagie Manufacturing

* Equipment made by joint venture will continue to carry Hagie brand











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BRIEF-Brazil's CSN says will raise steel prices by 10 pct

March 29 (Reuters) - In a conference call to discuss fourth quarter results, Brazilian steelmaker CSN said:


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US STOCKS-Wall St flat ahead of Yellen speech

* Dow down 0.25 pct, S&P down 0.19 pct, Nasdaq up 0.11 pct (Adds details, changes comment, updates prices)











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BRIEF-Biopharmx announces pricing of public offering to raise $4.3 mln

* Pricing of an underwritten public offering of 3.6 million shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 1.8 shares of common stock











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BRIEF-Tyler Technologies says State of Nevada renews and expands contract for Brazos electronic citation application

* State of Nevada renews and expands contract for Tyler's Brazos electronic citation application Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1-646-223-8780)


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Ex-divs to take 2.17 points off FTSE 100 on Mar.31

LONDON, March 29 (Reuters) - The following FTSE 100 companies will go ex-dividend on Thursday, after which investors will no longer qualify for the latest dividend payout. According to Reuters calculations at current market prices, the effect of the resulting adjustment to prices by market-makers would take 2.17 points off the index. COMPANY (RIC) DIVIDEND STOCK OPTION IMPACT (pence) Brit


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MOVES- Walker Crips, Tilney Bestinvest, Aon

March 29 (Reuters) - The following financial services industry appointments were announced on Tuesday. To inform us of other job changes, email moves@thomsonreuters.com.











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RPT-COLUMN-LNG producers need to go downstream to build industry: Russell

LAUNCESTON, Australia, March 29 (Reuters) - - The falling dominoes that are major liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects show that the industry needs a re-think on how it is structured and operates.











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Total triples power of supercomputer in search for savings

PARIS, March 29 (Reuters) - Total has tripled the power of its Pangea supercomputer, making it one of the world's most powerful and helping the French oil and gas company to speed up exploration studies and cut costs amid low oil prices.


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Brazil's government nominates Petrobras chairman

BRASILIA, March 29 (Reuters) - Brazil's government, the controlling shareholder of Petroleo Brasileiro SA, nominated economist Luiz Nelson Guedes de Carvalho to be chairman of the board of the state-run oil producer, the company said in a statement on Tuesday.











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SAP awards hefty option boost to execs, plans 5 pct dividend rise

FRANKFURT, March 29 (Reuters) - Business planning software giant SAP raised the long-term stock options awarded to senior executives in 2015 while the company's board recommended a 5 percent rise in its annual dividend, according to company documents published on Tuesday.


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Qube, Brookfield raising A$1 bln loan for Asciano's ports -sources

SYDNEY, March 29 (Reuters) - Australia's Qube Holdings Ltd and Canada's Brookfield Asset Management Inc are raising a A$1 billion ($753 million) loan to help pay for the ports business of Asciano Ltd, in a carve-up of Australia's largest ports and rail operator, people familiar with the transaction said on Tuesday.











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GLOBAL MARKETS-Europe shares, dollar gain as investors look to Yellen

* Europe shares rise as markets reopen after Easter, Asia slips











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Insurers help European shares to bounce back

LONDON, March 29 (Reuters) - European equities advanced on Tuesday after a long weekend, with insurers leading the market higher after companies such as RSA Insurance and NN Group rose following some bullish broker comments.


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Smoke without fire: Japan becomes test ground for real tobacco e-cigarette

TOKYO, March 29 (Reuters) - Two tobacco giants are seeing strong demand for their reboots of the e-cigarette in Japan, with Philip Morris International twice postponing a nationwide rollout and Japan Tobacco suspending shipments - both due to supply shortages.


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GLOBAL MARKETS-Asian shares slump as Yellen speech awaited

* Downbeat U.S. data quells near term Fed rate hike expectations


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UPDATE 1-UK Stocks-Factors to watch on March 29

March 29 (Reuters) - Britain's FTSE 100 index is expected to open higher on Tuesday, after a long Easter holiday weekend, with futures up 0.41 percent ahead of the cash market open, according to financial bookmakers. For more on the factors affecting European stocks, please click











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BRIEF-Bone Therapeutics FY total operating income up at 3.8 mln euro

* FY total operating income 3.8 million euro ($4.3 million) versus 3.7 million a year ago Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: ($1 = 0.8938 euros) (Gdynia Newsroom)


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European Factors to Watch-Shares seen higher after holidays

LONDON, March 29 (Reuters) - European equities were expected to open around 0.5 percent higher on Tuesday from their close on Thursday, according to spreadbetting firm IG's Website.











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BRIEF-Cleco Louisiana Public Service Commission voted to approve sale of Cleco Corp to a group investors

* Cleco Corp - Louisiana public service commission voted to approve sale of Cleco corp to a group investors











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Facing losses and grain glut, U.S. farmers to plant more corn

MANHATTAN, Ill., March 29 (Reuters) - Three years into a grain market slump, U.S. farmers are set to plant more corn, taking a calculated gamble that higher sales will help them make up for falling prices without triggering even more declines.


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Kia Motors aims to sell 40,000 Niro hybrid SUVs this year

SEOUL, March 29 (Reuters) - Kia Motors said on Tuesday it aims to sell 40,000 Niro hybrid crossovers in South Korea and overseas this year as the South Korean automaker seeks to meet tough emissions regulations.











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Nikkei edges down as soft US data dent exporters

* Automakers hardest hit, led by Nissan Motor and Toyota Motor


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UPDATE 1-U.S. lawmakers want health agencies to lower prostate cancer drug cost

March 28 (Reuters) - A group of lawmakers is calling on the National Institutes of Health and Department of Health and Human Services to step in and reduce the cost of Medivation Inc's and Astellas Pharma Inc's prostate cancer drug Xtandi.











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UPDATE 1-SunEdison being investigated by SEC on liquidity concerns-WSJ

March 28 (Reuters) - The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is looking into SunEdison Inc's disclosures to see if the solar company exaggerated its liquidity last year when it said it had more than $1 billion in cash, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.


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Yahoo sets April 11 deadline for preliminary bids -WSJ

March 28 (Reuters) - Yahoo Inc has set an April 11 deadline to submit preliminary bids for its web business and Asian assets, The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing sources.











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BRIEF-Apple on government dropping case over encrypted iPhone- "this case should never have been brought" - CNBC

March 28 (Reuters) - Apple Says From Beginning Objected To Fbi's Demand That Apple Build A Backdoor Into Iphone Because It Would Set A Dangerous Precedent


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U.S. lawmakers want health agencies to lower prostate cancer drug cost

March 28 (Reuters) - A group of lawmakers is calling on the National Institutes of Health and Department of Health and Human Services to step in and reduce the cost of Medivation Inc's and Astellas Pharma Inc's prostate cancer drug Xtandi.











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BRIEF-Trovagene terminates employment of CEO Antonius Schuh and CFO Stephen Zaniboni for cause

* Trovagene terminates employment of CEO Antonius Schuh and CFO Stephen Zaniboni for cause


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UPDATE 2-Origin withdraws offer to buy Affymetrix

March 28 (Reuters) - Origin Technologies Corp, owned by Affymetrix Inc's former employees, withdrew its offer to buy the gene-sequencing products maker, hours after Affymetrix said on Monday that Origin's raised bid was not superior to Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc's proposal.











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Asian upstarts eye global aircraft market

* Asian aerospace firms aim to compete with Bombardier, Embraer


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BRIEF-Morgan Stanley reports 5.1 pct passive stake in Hyatt Hotels Corp

* Morgan Stanley reports 5.1 pct passive stake in Hyatt Hotels Corp as of March 18, 2016 - SEC filing Source - http://1.usa.gov/25t4a55


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BRIEF-Rigel Pharmaceuticals says CEO Raul R. Rodriguez FY 2015 total compensation $2.1 mln

* Says CEO Raul R. Rodriguez FY 2015 total compensation $2.1 million versus $1.3 million - SEC filing











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UPDATE 2-Brazil's Lula calls for end to austerity, return to growth

SAO PAULO, March 28 (Reuters) - Former Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva urged a return to pro-growth economic policies like tax breaks and more consumer credit on Monday, doubling down on a strategy that has strained public accounts in recent years.


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BRIEF-Intermolecular posts Q4 revenue of $13 mln

* Sees revenue of $500,000 from one customer in Q1 Intermolecular files fiscal year 2015 financial statements











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BRIEF-ViewRay Q4 loss per share $0.37

March 28 (Reuters) - Viewray Reports Fourth Quarter And Full Year 2015 Financial Results And Up


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BRIEF-City Office REIT announces public offering of common stock

* Says intends to use net proceeds from offering to repay certain indebtedness Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1-646-223-8780)











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Chile's SQM signs lithium joint venture project in Argentina

SANTIAGO, March 28 (Reuters) - Chilean chemicals firm SQM said on Monday that it had entered into a joint venture with Canadian junior miner Lithium Americas to develop a lithium project in Argentina, at a time when demand and prices for the key battery ingredient are rocketing.











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BRIEF-Gilead Sciences says CEO John C. Martin's 2015 total compensation $18.8 mln - SEC Filing

* Says CFO Robin L. Washington FY 2015 total compensation $5.6 million versus $6.2 million in FY 2014 - SEC filing


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UPDATE 2-Japan's NTT Data agrees to buy Dell's IT services unit for $3 bln

* Deal helps Dell trim debt, fund pending acquisition of EMC (Adds Breakingviews link)


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Former Harman International executive pleads guilty to insider trading

March 28 (Reuters) - A former Harman International Industries Inc executive admitted on Monday to insider trading in the company's stock just prior to the release of a stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings report.











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Volkswagen recalls 5,600 U.S. electric vehicles for stalling issue

WASHINGTON, March 28 (Reuters) - Volkswagen AG is recalling nearly 5,600 electric e-Golf cars in the United States to address a battery problem that can cause stalling, the company said Monday.


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Templeton's Hasenstab shuns Argentina for Mexico, Brazil

SAN MATEO, Calif. March 28 (IFR) - At least one large fund manager is not buying into Argentina's turnaround story and believes the country's first international bond in over 15 years may not offer as much value as local debt in Mexico and Brazil.











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BRIEF-Eurocontrol's unit enters MOU with Netafim, an Israeli company

* Unit, Xenemetrix Ltd entered MOU with Netafim, an Israeli Co


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Shire gets favorable ruling against Allergan in Lialda patent case

March 28 (Reuters) - A U.S. district court on Monday ruled in favor of Shire Plc, preventing Allergan Plc from selling generic versions of Lialda, the ulcerative colitis drug, in the United States until 2020.











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BRIEF-Blue Earth Inc says Court approved interim order authorizing $1 mln of interim DIP financing

* On March 24, Bankruptcy Court approved interim order authorizing co to obtain $1 million of interim dip financing











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BRIEF-Mondelez CEO Irene Rosenfeld's 2015 total compensation was $19.7 mln

* Mondelez international inc says ceo irene rosenfeld's 2015 total compensation was $19.7 million versus $21 million in 2014


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BRIEF-PetroFrontier says Earl Scott is no longer CEO

* Effective march 24, 2016, earl scott is no longer employed by petrofrontier as president and ceo


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US STOCKS-Wall St little changed as investors assess data

* Dow up 0.03 pct, S&P flat, Nasdaq down 0.2 pct (Updates to open)











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BRIEF-Fusion Telecommunications reports Q4 EPS of $0.12

March 28 (Reuters) - Fusion Telecommunications International Inc











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BRIEF-First Potomac Realty Trust sells northern Virginia portfolio

* First Potomac Realty Trust sells northern Virginia non-core portfolio


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BRIEF-Eiger Biopharmaceuticals says EMA has granted orphan medicinal product status to ubenimex

* European Medicines Agency (EMA) has granted orphan medicinal product status to ubenimex Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1-646-223-8780)


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BRIEF-HD Supply Inc announces launch of senior notes offering

* HD Supply Inc intends to commence private offering of $1 billion senior notes due 2024











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BRIEF-Intertain Group examines and considers strategic options

* Initiated a process to identify, examine and consider a range of strategic options available to company


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BRIEF-Aralez announces FDA acceptance of new drug application

* Aralez announces FDA acceptance of new drug application for yosprala











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BRIEF-ASE acquires Siliconware's shares worth T$1.6 bln

* Says it acquired Siliconware shares worth T$1.6 billion ($49.09 million) at T$53.15 a share


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BRIEF-ZTE share trade to remain suspended

Further company coverage: (Reporting by Hong Kong newsroom)











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INSIGHT-With crisis plans and cuts, British bosses brace for Brexit

* British businesses prepare contingency plans for exit from EU











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Israel's Leviathan natgas development at risk for delay -Noble

JERUSALEM, March 28 (Reuters) - Noble Energy warned of the risk of a delay to the development of the Leviathan natural gas field off Israel's coast after Israel's Supreme Court blocked a crucial provision of a plan to develop the site.


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Israel's Delek hopes to stick to Leviathan development schedule

TEL AVIV, March 28 (Reuters) - Israel's Delek Group said on Monday it hopes to keep to its timetable for development of the Leviathan natural gas field despite a Supreme Court decision to block a crucial provision of an agreement reached with the government.


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Nikkei rises to 2-week high on weak yen; Sharp soars

TOKYO, March 28 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks rose to a two-week high on Monday thanks to a weaker yen, while Sharp Corp jumped on expectations it may finally sign a long-delayed takeover deal with its Taiwanese suitor.


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GRAINS--Soybeans hit 5-1/2 mth peak after big US soymeal exports

* Short-covering in wheat, soy ahead of USDA report (Updates prices)











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GLOBAL MARKETS-Dollar, North Asia stocks firm on positive U.S. GDP data

SINGAPORE/TOKYO, March 28 (Reuters) - The dollar firmed on Monday and stocks in North Asia rose after fairly strong consumer spending led to an upward revision in U.S. economic growth in the fourth quarter, helping to underpin investor sentiment.











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PRESS DIGEST - Wall Street Journal - March 28

March 28 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories in the Wall Street Journal. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.


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Nikkei rises to 1-1/2-week high on weak yen; Sharp soars 7 pct

* Sharp soars on news it and Foxconn set to sign deal this week


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Barrick says 2011/12 Argentine mine cyanide leaks were contained

BUENOS AIRES, March 27 (Reuters) - Barrick Gold Corp's Veladero mine in Argentina had three cyanide leaks between 2011 and 2012 that were contained by the mine's control system, a spokesman told Reuters on Sunday after local media published a government document describing the spills.


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Dell nears sale of IT services unit to Japan's NTT Data -sources

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PRESS DIGEST- British Business - March 28

March 28 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.


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Zimmer Biomet shares could rise 25 pct - Barron's

March 27 (Reuters) - Shares of hip, knee and shoulder replacement maker Zimmer Biomet Holdings could rise 25 percent as the market sees signs that the company is recovering from merger indigestion, according to an article in the latest edition of Barron's.


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PRESS DIGEST- Financial Times - March 28

March 28 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories in the Financial Times. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.











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UPDATE 1-Spain's Abengoa wins backing from creditors to avoid bankruptcy

* Judge could allow an extra 7 months to seal restructuring (Adds details, background)


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S.Korea set for record IPO year as conglomerates prepare to sell family silver

HONG KONG, March 28 (Reuters) - Riding a Seoul stocks revival, some of South Korea's biggest family firms are set to clean house this year with multi-billion dollar initial public offerings that will fire the country to a record year for new listings.











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Spain's Abengoa wins backing from 75 pct of creditors to restructure debt - doc

MADRID, March 27 (Reuters) - Spanish energy firm Abengoa has won the backing of around 75 percent of its creditors to restructure its high debt and seek more time from a court for talks aimed at avoiding bankruptcy, according to a document seen by Reuters on Sunday.


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Facebook stumbles again with 'Safety Check' after Lahore blast

March 27 (Reuters) - Facebook Inc apologized to users on the other side of the world from Sunday's suicide bombing in Pakistan who received computer-addressed notices asking if they were safe.











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Leviathan partners urge Israel govt to resolve regulatory uncertainty

JERUSALEM, March 27 (Reuters) - Partners in Israel's offshore Leviathan natural gas field called on the government to quickly resolve the regulatory uncertainty that remains after the Supreme Court struck down on Sunday an agreement the sides reached on the project's development.


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RPT-Wall St Week Ahead-Economic data could put stocks back on higher path

NEW YORK, March 24 (Reuters) - The March U.S. employment report and other key economic numbers next week could help U.S. stocks resume their recent winning path as long as that data hits the sweet spot: Not strong enough to add to worries about further interest rate hikes, yet not weak enough to cause concern about a recession.











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UPDATE 1-Israeli court blocks government's natural gas plan in blow to energy firms

JERUSALEM, March 27 (Reuters) - Israel's Supreme Court blocked a controversial plan to develop the country's natural gas fields on Sunday, dealing a blow to energy companies operating in the eastern Mediterranean and drawing fire from the government.


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Israeli court blocks govt energy plan, could delay gas fields development

JERUSALEM, March 27 (Reuters) - Israel's Supreme Court on Sunday ruled that an agreement reached between the government and leading energy firms last year was problematic, a move likely to delay the development of large offshore natural gas deposits.


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Israeli energy minister says court ruling on gas may cause irreversible damage

JERUSALEM, March 27 (Reuters) - Israel's energy minister said that the Supreme Court made an "unfortunate decision" on Sunday in blocking a government plan to develop offshore natural gas fields, adding that the move may cause irreversible damage to Israel's energy sector.











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Microsoft meets with private equity over Yahoo deal

Healdsburg, CALIFORNIA, March 26 (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp executives are in early talks with potential Yahoo Inc investors about contributing to financing to buy the troubled Internet company, a person familiar with the situation said.











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(EN) SteamBroker

false

Amazon plans two-hour delivery in Berlin -Welt

FRANKFURT, March 26 (Reuters) - Amazon is preparing to launch a two-hour delivery service in Berlin, German newspaper Welt reported on Saturday, citing Berlin transport sources.


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BRIEF-Exar announces settlement and license agreement

* Terms of settlement agreement and patent license agreement are confidential











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Microsoft apologizes for offensive tirade by its 'chatbot'

LOS ANGELES, March 25 (Reuters) - Microsoft is "deeply sorry" for the racist and sexist Twitter messages generated by the so-called chatbot it launched this week, a company official wrote on Friday, after the artificial intelligence program went on an embarrassing tirade.


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BRIEF-Royal Financial says progressed on Park Bancorp acquisition and $26.8 mln sale of distressed and other assets

* Execution of a definitive agreement with a new york based asset management firm to sell $25.8 million of distressed assets


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BRIEF-Aramark extends exchange offer for 5.125% senior notes due 2024

* Says sion of offer to exchange up to $400 million of 5.125% senior notes due 2024 to march 30, 2016 , unless further extended











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Wall St Week Ahead-Economic data could put stocks back on higher path

NEW YORK, March 24 (Reuters) - The March U.S. employment report and other key economic numbers next week could help U.S. stocks resume their recent winning path as long as that data hits the sweet spot: Not strong enough to add to worries about further interest rate hikes, yet not weak enough to cause concern about a recession.











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UPDATE 1-U.S. approves $3.2 bln sale of Boeing P-8A patrol planes to UK

WASHINGTON, March 25 (Reuters) - The U.S. government has approved the sale of up to nine Boeing Co P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol planes to Britain in a deal valued at up to $3.2 billion, the U.S. Defense Department said Friday.











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Probe into Biomet bribery charges to continue past DPA deadline

March 25 (Reuters) - Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc said on Friday a U.S. investigation into foreign bribes at Biomet, before it was acquired by Zimmer, would continue past a deferred prosecution agreement deadline of March 26.


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BRIEF-Tontine Asset Associates reports 5.35 pct passive stake in Skyline Corp

* Tontine Asset Associates reports 5.35 percent passive stake in Skyline Corp, as of March 21, 2016 - SEC Filing Source text for Eikon: http://1.usa.gov/1LNy2To Further company coverage:











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BRIEF-Francesca's Holdings files for potential stock shelf offering

* Francesca's Holdings Corp files for potential stock shelf offering; size not disclosed - SEC filing Source text: http://1.usa.gov/1VNEITP Further company coverage:


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BRIEF-Liberty Broadband says its unit entered into two margin loan agreements

* New margin loan agreements permit unit to borrow term loans up to to $300 million, of which it borrowed $200 million on march 24











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BRIEF-Zimmer Biomet says DoJ and SEC continue to evaluate its past conduct in Brazil and Mexico

* Doj and sec continue to evaluate alleged misconduct in brazil and mexico


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BRIEF-Oxigene says receives European orphan drug designation for CA4P

* European commission has granted orphan drug designation to CA4P for treatment of gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors


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BRIEF-Fitch says Pershing Square's ratings not yet impacted by Valeant decline

* Pershing Square Holdings' 'BBB+' ratings not yet impacted by valeant decline











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Senate's request for info from Ackman related to Valeant-source

BOSTON, March 25 (Reuters) - U.S. legislators investigating price hikes in the pharmaceutical industry have asked William Ackman's hedge fund for information on Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc, according to a person familiar with the matter.











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BRIEF-Sprout Pharma investors say Valeant overcharging for female libido pill -Bloomberg

March 25 (Reuters) - Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc


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Exxon Mobil in talks to buy into Eni's giant Mozambique gas field -sources

MILAN/LONDON, March 25 (Reuters) - Exxon Mobil is in talks to buy a stake of around 15 percent in Italian oil major Eni's giant Area 4 gas field in Mozambique, two sources familiar with the matter said.











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BRIEF-Waste Management CEO David Steiner's 2015 total compensation was $11.6 mln

* Ceo david steiner's fy 2015 total compensation was $11.6 million versus $10.8 million in fy 2014 - sec filing Source text : http://1.usa.gov/22KxcLg Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; +1 646 223 8780)











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U.S. attempt to unlock San Bernardino iPhone could impact N.Y. case: Apple

NEW YORK, March 25 (Reuters) - Apple Inc said the U.S. Justice Department's new attempts to unlock an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino shooters without the tech giant's help could eliminate the government's need for its assistance in a similar dispute in New York.


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Zijin Mining's 2015 profit falls 29 pct on weak gold, base metal prices

SINGAPORE, March 25 (Reuters) - Zijin Mining Group Co Ltd , China's biggest listed gold producer, reported on Friday a 29.4 percent fall in its 2015 net profit as a weak global economy pressured metal prices.











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UPDATE 1-FDA staff says Acadia's drug for Parkinson's disease psychosis is effective

March 25 (Reuters) - U.S. Food and Drug Administration staff members said on Friday Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc's drug to treat psychosis associated with Parkinson's disease was an effective treatment for the condition.


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BRIEF-Huntsman Executive Chairman Jon Huntsman's 2015 total compensation was $6.2 mln

* Ceo peter huntsman's fy 2015 total compensation $11.5 million versus $15.2 million in fy 2014


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Delta Airlines says its customers were among fatalities in Brussels blasts

March 25 (Reuters) - Delta Air Lines said in a statement on Friday that its customers were among the fatalities in the two deadly blasts at the departure area of the Brussels Airport at Zaventem on March 22.











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BRIEF-Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises CEO James Ferland's 2015 total compensation was $9.9 mln

* Ceo james ferland's fy 2015 total compensation $9.9 million versus $6.9 million in fy 2014 - sec filing Source text : http://1.usa.gov/1T97cqd Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; +1 646 223 8780)











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BRIEF-FDA staff backs Acadia's drug to treat psychosis associated with Parkinson's disease

* Single pivotal study established statistical evidence that pimavanserin 40 mg does not worsen parkinson's disease status


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BRIEF-HNI CEO Stan Askren's 2015 total compensation was $5.9 mln

* Says ceo stan askren's fy 2015 total compensation $5.9 million versus $5.4 million in fy 2014 - sec filing Source text : http://1.usa.gov/1T8ZUD9 Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; +1 646 223 8780)


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Turkish central bank says took 'measured' step towards simplifying policy

ANKARA, March 25 (Reuters) - The Turkish Central Bank said on Friday it decided to take a "measured" step towards policy simplification at its meeting this week, given the easing in global volatility and the lessening need for a wide interest rate corridor.


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BRIEF-Progressive CEO Glenn Renwick's 2015 total compensation was $10.1 mln

* Says ceo glenn renwick's fy 2015 total compensation $10.1 million versus $9.8 million in fy 2014 - sec filing











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Yokohama Rubber to buy Alliance Tire Group for about $1.2 bln

TOKYO, March 25 (Reuters) - Yokohama Rubber Co Ltd said on Friday it had agreed to buy Alliance Tire Group B.V. from private equity firm KKR & Co LP and others for about $1.2 billion in a bid to expand its commercial tyre business.











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BRIEF-Sony appoints 4 additional executive VPs under new management structure

* Sony Corp : appoints 4 additional executive vice presidents under new management structure


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Nikkei rises on weaker yen, buyers seek dividends

TOKYO, March 25 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks rose on Friday as a weaker yen raised sentiment, while investors bought stocks with high dividend yields such as life insurers before companies go ex-dividend next week.


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BRIEF-TSMC orders machinery equipment worth T$1.0 billion

March 25 (Reuters) - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd











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CORRECTED-Yokohama Rubber to announce acquisition of overseas tyre maker at 0600 GMT

TOKYO, March 25 (Reuters) - Japan's Yokohama Rubber Co said it would announce the acquisition of an overseas tyre maker at 3 p.m. (0600 GMT) on Friday.











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BRIEF-East Africa Metals Grants Stock Options and Bonus Shares

* Granted aggregate of 1 million stock options to a director pursuant to stock option plan. Options have an exercise price of $0.10 per share


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BRIEF-FPPC opens investigation into governor's top aide for failure to disclose timing of stock sales in PG&E

* Opened an investigation into Nancy McFadden's failure to report dates and times of stock sales in pg&e


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Nikkei edges up on weaker yen, buyers seeking dividends

TOKYO, March 25 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks rose for the first time in three days on Friday morning as a weaker yen raised the profit outlook for exporters while fresh data showing Japan's consumer inflation remained flat lifted hopes for further stimulus from the Bank of Japan.











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UPDATE 1-Netflix admits to downgrading video quality on AT&T, Verizon phones - WSJ

March 24 (Reuters) - Netflix Inc said it had been lowering the quality of its video for customers watching its service on wireless networks such as AT&T and Verizon Communications for more than five years, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday.











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UPDATE 1-Microsoft told potential Yahoo bidders it might back bids -report

March 24 (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp executives are in talks with equity firms considering bids for Yahoo Inc! saying that Microsoft might be willing to offer "significant financing" for their efforts, tech news site Recode reported on Thursday.


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BRIEF-W&T Offshore announces decrease in borrowing base under credit facility

* w&t offshore announces decrease in borrowing base under revolving bank credit facility


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BRIEF-Ocwen Financial announces amendment to senior secured term loan

* Ocwen financial announces amendment to senior secured term loan











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Gilead ordered to pay Merck $200 mln in hepatitis C drug patent dispute

SAN JOSE, Calif., March 24 (Reuters) - A federal jury on Thursday ordered Gilead Sciences Inc to pay Merck & Co $200 million in damages for infringing two Merck patents related to a lucrative cure for hepatitis C.











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Microsoft has told potential Yahoo bidders it might back bids - Recode

March 24 (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp executives have held meetings with equity firms that are considering bids for Yahoo Inc and told them that Microsoft might be willing to offer "significant financing" for their efforts, Recode reported on Thursday.


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U.S. senators call for review of ChemChina deal for Syngenta

CHICAGO, March 24 (Reuters) - The U.S. government panel that reviews foreign acquisitions should assess the impact on domestic food security from state-owned China National Chemical Corp's planned $43.1 billion acquisition of Swiss seeds and pesticide maker Syngenta AG, four U.S. senators said in a letter on Thursday.











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UPDATE 1-U.S. extends BMW deadline to get replacement air bag inflators

March 24 (Reuters) - BMW AG will get five more months to acquire Takata air bag replacement parts for a massive recall because tests showed some of the substitute inflators may also be defective, the U.S. auto safety agency said on Thursday.


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Verizon says security breach leads to customer data leak

March 24 (Reuters) - Verizon Communications Inc said an attacker had exploited a security vulnerability on its enterprise client portal to steal contact information of a number of customers.


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BRIEF-Sabina Gold And Silver says Q4 net loss of $4.6 mln

* Sabina gold & silver announces financial results for the year ended december 31, 2015











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UPDATE 1-Ackman's hedge fund cooperating with U.S. on drug pricing probe -letter

BOSTON, March 24 (Reuters) - Billionaire investor William Ackman, whose hedge fund is one the of the biggest investors in drug company Valeant, has been asked to supply information to U.S. legislators probing price hikes in the pharmaceutical industry.


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U.S. judge questions Lyft settlement over driver benefits

SAN FRANCISCO, March 24 (Reuters) - A U.S. judge questioned on Thursday whether a proposed class action settlement between Lyft and its California drivers is fair and raised concerns that the $12.25 million payment offered by the ride-hailing service might be too low.











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BRIEF-UGE announces offering for aggregate gross proceeds of a minimum of $1 mln and a maximum of $2.5 mln

* Says offering is for aggregate gross proceeds of a minimum of $1 million and a maximum of $2.5 million


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BRIEF-Campbell Soup says board approved amendment to reduce size of board from 13 to 12 directors

* Laws, to reduce size of board from 13 to 12 directors - sec filing Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1-646-223-8780)











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BRIEF-Oil tankers race around Latam to deliver first U.S. crude to Japan

HOUSTON, March 24 (Reuters) - Two oil tankers are racing toward the southern tip of Argentina in a bid to be the first to ship U.S. crude to Japan since a longstanding ban was lifted late last year.











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BRIEF-Caesars Acquisition's CEO Mitch Garber FY 2015 total compensation $13.5 mln

* Says CEO Mitch Garber FY 2015 total compensation $13.5 million versus $7.2 million in FY 2014


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Second Premier Foods shareholder urges talks with McCormick

LONDON, March 24 (Reuters) - Paulson & Co, a top ten shareholder in Premier Foods, urged the company's board to engage in takeover discussions with McCormick, becoming the second sizeable shareholder to criticise the board for its refusal to enter talks with its U.S. suitor.











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BRIEF-Canada Strategic Metals announces private placement

* Proposing to issue 6 million common shares at a cost of $0.05 per share Source text for Eikon:


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BRIEF-Ricebran Technologies completes legal process for release of $1.9 mln held in escrow

* Completed legal process necessary for release of $1.9 million held in escrow at a San Francisco bank since acquisition of Irgovel Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:











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Arizona gunman's lawsuit vs Gabby Giffords may be hoax -report

March 24 (Reuters) - A bizarre lawsuit purportedly filed by the gunman in the 2011 mass shooting in Arizona that critically injured U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords may be a hoax, an Arizona news website reported on Thursday.


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CORRECTED-Blackrock cuts earlier recommendation on Japanese stocks

NEW YORK, March 24 (Reuters) - BlackRock Inc, the world's largest asset manager, said it was cutting an earlier recommendation to invest in Japanese stocks amid fears market turbulence and a strong yen may erode exporters' earnings.











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UPDATE 1-Canada moves to end maintenance lawsuits against Air Canada

OTTAWA, March 24 (Reuters) - The Canadian government on Thursday introduced amended legislation designed to prevent lawsuits by provinces against Air Canada over where the carrier's aircraft are serviced.











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UPDATE 2-U.S. blames Iran for hacking dozens of banks, New York dam

WASHINGTON, March 24 (Reuters) - The Obama administration on Thursday announced the indictment of seven Iranian hackers for a coordinated campaign of cyber attacks on dozens of U.S. banks and a New York dam from 2011 to 2013, signaling an effort by officials to more publicly confront cyber crime waged on behalf of foreign nations.


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REFILE-U.S. blames Iran for hacking campaign on banks, New York dam

WASHINGTON, March 24 (Reuters) - The Obama administration on Thursday formally blamed Iranian hackers for a coordinated campaign of cyber attacks from 2011 to 2013 on dozens of U.S. banks and a New York dam.











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UPDATE 1-Diebold clears offer acceptance hurdle to acquire Wincor Nixdorf

* Shares in Wincor jump 20 pct, Diebold up 7.5 pct (Adds shares, details on timing, background)


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BRIEF-Centene entered into credit agreement providing for $1 bln credit facility

* Entered into a new credit agreement providing for a $1 billion unsecured multi-currency revolving credit facility











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CANADA STOCKS-TSX falls to a 2-week low as lower oil prices weigh

TORONTO, March 24 (Reuters) - Canada's main stock index fell on Thursday to a two-week low, with losses broad based as a drop in crude oil prices weighed on the commodity-linked index.


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BRIEF-Regeneron and Bayer to jointly develop combination therapy for eye diseases

* Regeneron and Bayer to jointly develop novel combination therapy for eye diseases











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BRIEF-Starboard issues letter to Yahoo shareholders

* Starboard has nominated a slate of nine highly reputable and extremely qualified directors for election at Yahoo's 2016 annual meeting


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CANADA STOCKS-Futures fall as commodity prices weaken

March 24 (Reuters) - Canadian stock futures pointed to a lower opening on Thursday as the dollar climbed for a fifth consecutive day, weakening commodities and global stocks.











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US STOCKS-Futures lower as strong dollar hits commodities

March 24 (Reuters) - U.S. stock index futures were lower on Thursday ahead of the long Easter weekend as a stronger dollar weighed on commodities.


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PRESS DIGEST- Canada-March 24

March 24 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories from selected Canadian newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.


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BRIEF-ALERRT(SM) study shows Egalet-002 needs more effort to manipulate than OxyContin

* ALERRT(SM) study demonstrated Egalet-002 required significantly more effort to manipulate than Oxycontin Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:











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Russian billionaire Potanin says considering buying state assets in privatisation

MOSCOW, March 24 (Reuters) - Vladimir Potanin, one of Russia's richest men, said on Thursday his investment vehicle Interros was considering taking part in privatisation of state assets, although it was not interested in buying a stake in oil company Bashneft. (Reporting by Darya Korsunskaya and Anastasia Lyrchikova; Writing by Dmitry Solovyov; Editing by Alexander Winning)











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BRIEF-American homes 4 rent announces election of new trustee

* American homes 4 rent announces election of new trustee Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:


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European equities dragged down by commodities stocks and Next

LONDON, March 24 (Reuters) - European shares fell for a fourth straight session on Thursday, tracking losses on Wall Street and Asia, with a firmer dollar impacting commodity prices while hawkish comments from another Fed official put pressure on the market.











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RPT-UPDATE 1-CME closer to EU wheat contract after silo breakthrough - sources

* CME resolved main contract snag with French coops - sources


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UPDATE 1-Indonesia tells Grab, Uber to partner with transport firms

JAKARTA, March 24 (Reuters) - Taxi-hailing apps Grab and Uber Technologies Inc must partner with a transport business and register their cars by the end of May if they want to go on operating in Southeast Asia's largest economy, a minister said on Thursday.


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BRIEF-Konecranes shares fall after increased rival bid from Zoomlion to buy Terex

* Shares fall 5.8 percent after increased rival bid from Zoomlion to buy Terex











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RPT-Turkish tourism and economy struggle due to bombings, Russia chill

* Istanbul shopkeeper complains of "zero business" after attack











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Starboard to launch proxy fight to remove Yahoo's entire board - WSJ

March 24 (Reuters) - Activist hedge fund Starboard Value LP, which is leading an investor revolt against Yahoo Inc's management team, is seeking to remove the entire board of the struggling Internet company, the Wall Street Journal reported.











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PRESS DIGEST - Wall Street Journal - March 24

March 24 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories in the Wall Street Journal. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.


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Hopu, KKR among investors in talks to buy stake in Yum's China unit -sources

SINGAPORE/HONG KONG, March 24 (Reuters) - Private equity firm Hopu Investments is among the investors that Yum Brands Inc is in talks to sell a minority stake in its China unit to, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.


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UPDATE 1-F-35 chief cites "good, bad and ugly" about No. 1 U.S. arms program

WASHINGTON, March 23 (Reuters) - Lockheed Martin Corp's $391 billion F-35 stealth fighter jet program has made steady improvements in cost, schedule and technical performance over the past year, but still faces delays in software development and a complex computer-based logistics system, Pentagon officials said on Wednesday.











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Nikkei flat ahead fiscal year end, Mitsui slumps 7 pct

TOKYO, March 24 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks were little changed on Thursday with investors reluctant to stake out fresh positions ahead of the end of the fiscal year.











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GLOBAL MARKETS-Dollar rise hits commodities as Fed talks of tightening

SYDNEY, March 24 (Reuters) - The dollar advanced for a fifth straight session on Thursday, pressuring commodities and Asian shares after yet another Federal Reserve official talked up the chance of more than one increase in U.S interest rates this year.











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Newcrest resurrects hedge policy as Australian dollar gold rises

SYDNEY, March 24 (Reuters) - Newcrest Mining, one of the world's biggest gold producers, will hedge more than half-a-million ounces of gold over the next two years, abandoning a long-held opposition to cap its exposure to market bullion prices.











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Mexican bottler Arca boosts stake in Peru's Lindley

MEXICO CITY, March 23 (Reuters) - Arca Continental, Latin America's No. 2 Coke bottler, on Wednesday said it had further increased its stake in Peru's Corporacion Lindley, lifting its holding of so-called investment shares to nearly 22 percent.


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PRESS DIGEST- Financial Times - March 24

March 24 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories in the Financial Times. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.


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PRESS DIGEST- British Business - March 24

March 24 - The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.











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USDA regulators clear two GM corn traits from Monsanto, Syngenta

CHICAGO, March 23 (Reuters) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will no longer regulate a genetically-modified corn developed by Monsanto Co to resist its dicamba herbicide, the agency said on Wednesday.


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CORRECTED-UPDATE 1-Sun Life eyes more Asia expansion after Indonesian deal

TORONTO, March 23 (Reuters) - Sun Life Financial Inc expects to make further acquisitions in Asia, the Canadian insurer said, after agreeing on Wednesday to take full control of its Indonesian business by buying out partner CIMB Group.


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BRIEF-Alexco Resource Corp Q4 loss per share C$0.02

* In 2016, alexco plans to incorporate re-engineering and optimizing of mine plan on flame & moth and lucky queen deposits











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BRIEF-Medical Facilities says Britt Reynolds appointed CEO

* Medical facilities corporation announces new ceo Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1-646-223-8780)











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UPDATE 1-Brazil prosecutors criticize Odebrecht overture

SAO PAULO, March 23 (Reuters) - Brazilian prosecutors said on Wednesday no plea-bargain talks are underway with executives from engineering conglomerate Grupo Odebrecht SA and that the company's public announcement of its intention to cooperate had no legal standing.


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BRIEF-J C Penney says Myron Ullman's 2015 total compensation $12.8 mln

* Says former CEO Myron Ullman's 2015 total compensation $12.8 million versus $9.7 million in 2014 - SEC filing


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BRIEF-Eldorado reports Q4 loss per share $1.73

* Says for 2016, kisladag is expected to produce between 225,000-240,000 ounces of gold











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LATAM CLOSE-Paraguay raises US$600m in primary market

NEW YORK, March 23 (IFR) - Below is a recap of primary issuance in the LatAm primary market on Wednesday:


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Covey Park inks $420 mln deal for Louisiana shale gas acreage

March 23 (Reuters) - Private equity-backed Covey Park Energy LLC said on Wednesday it bought shale natural gas acreage in Louisiana for $420 million from EP Energy Corp, the latest in a slow trickle of land deals across the energy space.











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U.S. to charge Iranians in cyber attacks including New York dam-sources

WASHINGTON, March 23 (Reuters) - The Obama administration is expected to blame Iranian hackers as soon as Thursday for a coordinated campaign of cyber attacks in 2012 and 2013 on a suburban New York City dam and several other targets, sources familiar with the matter have told Reuters.


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Uber sues Indian rival Ola for fake accounts, bookings-Bloomberg

March 23 (Reuters) - Uber Technologies Inc is suing rival Indian ride-hailing service Ola, accusing it of creating fake accounts and making false bookings to interfere with its business, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday.


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UPDATE 2-Rockefeller Family Fund hits Exxon, divests from fossil fuels

HOUSTON/NEW YORK, March 23 (Reuters) - The Rockefeller Family Fund said on Wednesday it will divest from fossil fuels as quickly as possible and "eliminate holdings" of Exxon Mobil Corp, saying the oil company associated with the family fortune has misled the public about climate change risks.











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ADM sues Canadian Pacific over service disruptions

CHICAGO, March 23 (Reuters) - Archer Daniels Midland Co has filed a lawsuit against Canadian Pacific over service disruptions in 2013 and 2014 at crop-processing plants in North Dakota and Minnesota, alleging they stemmed in part from cost-cutting and the Canadian railroad's pursuit of merger partners.


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BRIEF-Reynolds American CEO Susan Cameron's 2015 total compensation was $13.4 mln

* Ceo susan cameron's fy 2015 total compensation $13.4 million versus $10.8 million in fy 2014 - sec filing Source text : http://1.usa.gov/1RzqW7f Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; +1 646 223 8780)


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BRIEF-Arch Capital CEO Constantine Iordanou's 2015 total compensation was $10.6 mln

* Ceo constantine iordanou's fy 2015 total compensation $10.6 million versus $11.0 million in fy 2014 - sec filing Source text : http://1.usa.gov/1Rzr1rx Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom; +1 646 223 8780)











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Airbus unveils new cabin brand adding more seats to planes

LONDON, March 23 (Reuters) - European planemaker Airbus unveiled a new cabin brand on Wednesday designed to help cost-conscious airlines carry more passengers on long-haul flights while avoiding additional discomfort.


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BRIEF-Yum holding talks with KKR about possible sale of stake in china business - CNBC, citing DJ

March 23 (Reuters) - Yum Holding Talks With Kkr And Others About Possible Sale Of 19.9% Stake In Its China Business, Valuing It At $10 Bln


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CANADA STOCKS-TSX falls with gold, oil; Amaya slumps after CEO charges

* Half of TSX's 10 main groups lower, 2 fallers for every gainer


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Renault-Nissan CEO says better than expected auto industry sales in 2016

NEW YORK, March 23 (Reuters) - Carlos Ghosn, CEO of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, said Wednesday he thinks auto industry sales will outpace industry forecasts in the United States and Europe this year.











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UPDATE 2-British judge approves extradition of "flash crash" trader to U.S.

LONDON, March 23 (Reuters) - A British judge approved on Wednesday a U.S. request for the extradition of a London-based trader accused of contributing to the 2010 Wall Street "flash crash" by placing bogus orders to spoof the market.


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US STOCKS-Materials, energy shares weigh on indexes

March 23 (Reuters) - U.S. stock indexes were slightly lower on Wednesday morning, dragged down by energy and materials stocks, as investors remained wary of taking on risk in a week marred by the attacks in Brussels and shortened by the Good Friday holiday.











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BRIEF-Pico says Raymond V. Marino ii to serve as non-executive chairman of board

* Pico holdings names Raymond V. Marino ii Chairman of the board of directors


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Starbucks, Airbnb, Democracy Works aim to boost U.S. voter turnout

March 23 (Reuters) - Democracy Works Inc, a non-partisan, non-profit organization, said on Wednesday it is joining forces with Starbucks Corp, Airbnb, Target Corp and others to boost U.S. voter turnout to 80 percent by 2020.


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BRIEF-Otonomy initiates patient enrollment in second Phase 3 clinical trial

* Otonomy initiates patient enrollment in second Phase 3 clinical trial of OTO-104 in Ménière's disease











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European shares inch up, lifted by Credit Suisse gains

* Travel, leisure stocks underperform after Brussels attacks (ADVISORY- Reuters plans to replace intra-day European and UK stock market reports with a Live Markets blog on Eikon - see cpurl://apps.cp./cms/?pageId=livemarkets for site in development. See the bottom of the report. Updates prices, adds details)


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New titans on the block: ABCDs lose top Brazil grains spot to Asian rivals

SAO PAULO, March 23 (Reuters) - The world's top grain trading houses Archer Daniels Midland, Bunge Ltd Cargill and Louis Dreyfus, have lost their century-old dominance of Brazil's grains export market to their Asian rivals, data shows.


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BRIEF-Ashford Inc files tortious interference lawsuit against Sessa Capital alleging over $200mln in potential damages

* Ashford Inc files tortious interference lawsuit against Sessa Capital alleging over $200mln in potential damages Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1 646 223 8780)











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India defends right to issue drug "compulsory licences"

MUMBAI, March 23 (Reuters) - India has defended its right to grant licences allowing local firms to override patents and make cheaper copies of drugs discovered by big Western drugmakers, and said reports to the contrary were "factually incorrect".











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UPDATE 1-Enel to invest around 2.5 bln euros in broadband plan

MILAN, March 23 (Reuters) - Italian utility Enel said on Wednesday it planned to invest around 2.5 billion euros ($2.8 billion) to help develop a national ultrafast broadband network.


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REFILE-Boon for Vietnam property market as more overseas cash goes home

* Additional $2.7 bln reckoned to come through unofficial channels


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Premier Foods rejects revised buyout offer from McCormick & Co

March 23 (Reuters) - Britain's Premier Foods rejected a revised offer from flavour and seasoning products maker McCormick & Co, saying the latest offer undervalued the company.











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European Factors to Watch-Equity futures mixed, Ct Suisse plans more cuts

LONDON, March 23 (Reuters) - European equity futures were mixed on Wednesday, with stock markets having retreated in the previous session after deadly attacks in Brussels hit travel, leisure and luxury goods stocks.


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GLOBAL MARKETS-Asian shares slip as Brussels attacks make investors cautious before Easter

* U.S. bond yield rises after Fed official's bullish comments











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European Factors to Watch-Shares seen opening slightly lower

LONDON, March 23 (Reuters) - European stocks were seen opening slightly lower on Wednesday, having retreated in the previous session after deadly attacks in Brussels hit travel, leisure and luxury goods stocks.











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UK Stocks-Factors to watch on March 23

March 23 (Reuters) - Britain's FTSE 100 index is seen opening down 13 points, or 0.2 percent lower, on Wednesday, according to financial bookmakers. For more on the factors affecting European stocks, please click on * The UK blue chip index closed up 0.1 percent on Tuesday at 6,192.74, as investors flocked to safe haven assets after travel and leisure stocks fell following explosions at Brussels airport and a metro station in the city. * BRUSSELS: Islamic State claimed responsib


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PRESS DIGEST - Wall Street Journal - March 23

March 23 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories in the Wall Street Journal. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.











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UPDATE 3-U.S. grants China's ZTE temporary reprieve on export curbs

WASHINGTON, March 23 (Reuters) - The U.S. government will give Chinese telecom equipment and smartphone maker ZTE Corp a three-month reprieve on tough export restrictions it imposed earlier this month, the Commerce Department said on Tuesday.


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RPT-Scrambling for cover, U.S. shale producers ramp up hedging

NEW YORK, March 23 (Reuters) - Struggling U.S. shale producers have scrambled to sell future output at their fastest pace in about six months in recent weeks, curbing a rebound in prices and potentially prolonging the oil market's worst rout in a generation, traders say.


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Scrambling for cover, U.S. shale producers ramp up hedging

NEW YORK, March 23 (Reuters) - Struggling U.S. shale producers have scrambled to sell future output at their fastest pace in about six months in recent weeks, curbing a rebound in prices and potentially prolonging the oil market's worst rout in a generation, traders say.











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Nikkei flat in choppy trade

TOKYO, March 23 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks were flat in choppy trade on Wednesday morning after Tuesday's attacks in Brussels stoked appetite for the safe-haven yen, which trimmed the profit outlook for exporters as it gained on the U.S. dollar.


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BRIEF-Brampton Brick Q4 revenues grew by 19 percent to $32,362

* For q4 of 2015, revenues grew by 19% to $32,362 from $27,200 for same period in 2014


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Twitter testing new 'Stickers' feature - report

March 22 (Reuters) - Twitter Inc is testing a new feature called 'Stickers' to add images to photos before tweeting them, tech news site Re/code reported on Tuesday.











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UPDATE 1-New York lawmakers end last statewide ban on mixed martial arts

ALBANY, N.Y., March 21 (Reuters) - New York's state assembly on Tuesday overwhelmingly voted to legalize mixed martial arts fights, effectively ending the last remaining statewide ban on the combat sport in the United States.











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BRIEF-Conagra Foods to add labels to products nationwide by July to meet Vermont GMO labeling requirements

* Conagra Foods says will begin adding labels to products nationwide by july 2016 to meet Vermont's GMO labeling requirements


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Ex-Goldman Sachs employee spared jail over New York Fed leaks

NEW YORK, March 22 (Reuters) - A former Goldman Sachs Group Inc associate who admitted to illegally obtaining confidential documents from a friend at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York was handed a fine on Tuesday but spared a prison sentence.


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UPDATE 2-Merck patents on Hepatitis C treatment found valid in Gilead dispute

SAN JOSE, March 22 (Reuters) - A federal jury on Tuesday upheld the validity of two Merck & Co patents in a high-profile dispute with rival Gilead Sciences Inc, which could be forced to hand over a portion of the billions of dollars in revenue from its blockbuster cure for hepatitis C.


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Merck patents on Hepatitis C treatment found valid in dispute with Gilead

NEW YORK, March 22 (Reuters) - A federal jury on Tuesday upheld the validity of two Merck & Co patents in a high-profile dispute with rival Gilead Sciences Inc, which could be forced to hand over a portion of the billions of dollars in revenue from its blockbuster cure for hepatitis C.











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BRIEF-Quorum Health sees 2016 net operating revenues of $2.2-$2.3 bln

* Expect net operating revenues for year ending Dec 31, 2016 to range from $2.2 billion to $2.3 billion


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GLOBAL MARKETS-Stocks recover from early selloff; safe-haven assets ease

* Gold, yen and Treasury bonds strength eases (Adds close of U.S. markets, oil settlement prices)











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BRIEF-Monster Worldwide to repurchase $10 mln in aggregate principal amount of its 3.50 pct convertible senior notes due 2019

* To repurchase $10.0 million in aggregate principal amount of its 3.50% convertible senior notes due 2019 for $9.475 million in cash Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom: +1-646-223-8780)


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BRIEF-Celator says intends to offer and sell shares of common stock

* Intends to offer and sell shares of its common stock in an underwritten public offering











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Enel's Latin American restructuring plan suffers legal setback

SANTIAGO, March 22 (Reuters) - Italian utility Enel's restructuring of its Latin American assets has suffered a legal setback in Chile after a local court partially upheld a claim against it filed by a pension fund shareholder.


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General Motors unveils updated Buick Encore SUV in U.S.

NEW YORK, March 22 (Reuters) - General Motors Co on Tuesday unveiled a refreshed Buick Encore small sport-utility vehicle ahead of the New York International Auto Show as sales of larger U.S. vehicles soar amid low gasoline prices.











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COLUMN-U.S. retirement confidence improves, but preparation lags

CHICAGO, March 22 (Reuters) - Denial is not just a river in Africa. It also is a powerful driver of how Americans think about their prospects for a secure retirement.


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Amazon sues former employee over new job at Target

March 22 (Reuters) - Amazon.com Inc has sued a former executive hired by Target Corp as its chief supply chain and logistics officer to prevent him from revealing trade secrets.


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UPDATE 2-Lumber Liquidators settles with California clean air agency

March 22 (Reuters) - Lumber Liquidators Holdings Inc said it had reached a settlement with the California Air Resources Board, the state's clean air agency, to resolve an inquiry into the company's laminate flooring products sourced from China.











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Macy's appoints real estate expert to board

March 22 (Reuters) - Macy's Inc appointed William Lenehan, an expert in real estate investments, to its board amid investor pressure to monetize its real estate assets.


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BRIEF-New York Times CEO Thompson's 2015 total compensation $8.7 mln

* Ceo mark thompson's 2015 total compensation was $8.7 million versus $4.5 million in 2014 - sec filing Source text: Further company coverage: (Bengaluru Newsroom +91 80 6749-1130; within U.S. +1 646 223 8780)











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