Chinese authorities have signaled that bank lending would slow significantly in 2010, the latest in a series of moves intended to forestall inflation and stave off bubbles in the stock and property markets.

China has said its economy expanded by 8.7% in 2009, exceeding even the government's own initial expectations.

Red Cross donations made by texting reach US$5 million, as the campaign to raise money for Haiti relief efforts goes viral in an always-connected society.

We closed the year as planned with improved sales and strong bookings, as the semiconductor business recovers driven by technology and capacity buys from major Foundry customers and the memory market segments, according to ASML president and CEO Eric Meurice.