Latest from the markets Click for a detailed look at the markets and to check particular stocks Your Personal Finance Site Includes: • Stock Quotes and Research • My Portfolio • Mutual Funds • E-mail Alerts • Industry News • Stocks of Local Interest Our annual report rates the 50 most successful public companies in the Tampa Bay area. Who's shaping our economy and why. Special report

Today’s headlines
Markets jolted; SEC smacks WorldCom with fraud charge
Just when stocks are thought to have seen the worst, another scandal has investors counting more losses.

Fallout: distrust, uncertainty
WORLDCOM: The latest scandal isn't a surprise to some. Others await the next financial debacle.

Fallout: distrust, uncertainty
MCI: Thinking of switching long-distance carriers? There's no need to, experts say, but many will.

Martha Stewart probe may widen; stock falls
NEW YORK -- Shares of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. tumbled nearly 24 percent Wednesday, fueled by reports that the decorating maven may be facing a wider investigation of her sale of ImClone Systems Inc. shares, including possible charges of obstruction of justice and making false statements.

Business digest
HEALTH COST TAX RULES CLARIFIED: The IRS says that money employers provide for workers' out-of-pocket health costs will not be subject to taxes. The decision clears up a gray area by ensuring that money in these Health Reimbursement Arrangements that is left over at year-end can be rolled over to the next year tax-free. The IRS also set up specifics on how a plan qualifies for tax-free status. The ruling could clear the way for more companies to offer such benefits.