Business Briefs – November 20, 2018

Volatile Stock Market Spooking Some Older Workers, Retirees

CHICAGO (AP) – Some older workers and retirees are spooked by the ups and downs of the U.S. stock markets. But there’s no indication that the recent volatility has brought about large-scale overhauls in retirement planning. A Bankrate survey says 62 percent of Americans — and 76 percent of those 65 and over — don’t believe their financial situation has improved in the two years since President Donald Trump’s election.

UK Leader Has Eye on Rebellion As EU Braces for Brexit Push

LONDON (AP) – The U.K. and the European Union are plowing ahead with trying to have their divorce deal signed, sealed and delivered within days. But the draft Brexit agreement has left British Prime Minister Theresa May fighting to keep her job. May waited on Monday to see if rebel lawmakers from her party had the numbers to trigger a no-confidence vote, while British and EU negotiators raced to firm up a final deal before a weekend summit where EU leaders hope to rubber stamp it.

Even Small Companies May Be Able to Cut Amazon-Like Deals

NEW YORK (AP) – A company doesn’t need to be as big as Amazon to get a real estate deal. Whether a small business wants to buy or rent, it may have some leverage with landlords or local governments to get breaks on taxes or win grants. It’s especially doable if a company can serve as a drawing card that helps boost local commerce or has significant job creation plans. The key is often to look for real estate in an area that needs an economic boost, or a depressed neighborhood that’s on the verge of making a comeback.

David’s Bridal Files for Bankruptcy, But Your Order Is Safe

NEW YORK (AP) – David’s Bridal is filing for bankruptcy protection but there is no danger for customers who have ordered dresses because operations continuing as normal while the wedding and prom retailer restructures. The bankruptcy filing, the private company said Monday, will wipe out more than $400 million in long-term debt.

Brazil’s Petrobras to Be Led By Privatization Advocate

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) – Brazil’s president-elect is appointing a pro-market reformer to lead the state oil company Petrobras. Roberto Castello Branco has advocated privatizing the oil giant, a measure also supported by his close ally Paulo Guedes, designated as Brazil’s next finance minister. However, experts say a wholesale privatization is unlikely.