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
Robert Trigaux
As bay area uses water from sea, nation watches
Tampa Bay: a technology trendsetter? Hard to believe, but bellwether states such as California and Texas are casting a critical eye at our metro area for some cutting-edge guidance about their own futures.

Mechanics to receive codes for car repairs
Automakers agree to sell independents the computer data needed to diagnose problems.

Corporate fraud inquiries widen
More executives are targeted or plead guilty as federal fraud investigations escalate.

More Americans investing in stock
While the market rises in popularity, the value of holdings is relatively low.

Good news boosts market
WASHINGTON -- New home sales hit a monthly all-time high, orders to U.S. factories for big-ticket goods dropped by a smaller-than-expected amount, and new claims for jobless benefits plunged, providing a dose of good news for the economy.

US Airways accepts investment
ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- Alabama's public-employee pension fund is set to take a controlling interest in US Airways, although the deal approved in bankruptcy court Thursday makes it easier for other investors to make a better bid.

Disney theme parks' head to lead Gap
The retailer hopes for a turnaround. Investors react favorably.

Business Today
BANKRUPTCY SETTLEMENT: The former owners of Newport Creamery have agreed to settle their bankruptcy lawsuits for about $6.7-million, according to documents filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Providence, R.I. Trustee Andrew Richardson sued former owners Robert and Linda Swain of Clearwater last September, claiming they siphoned $9-million from the restaurant chain for their personal use, forcing it into bankruptcy. Robert Swain also agreed to erase his claims the Creamery owes him $2.56-million in back rent. The settlement still must be approved by a Bankruptcy Court judge; a hearing is scheduled for Oct. 17. In a separate case, Robert Swain has pleaded innocent to state racketeering charges in Florida; he is accused of deceiving investors in the Tarpon Highlands and Tarpon Pointe housing developments in north Pinellas and Rutland Estates in St. Petersburg.