UK budget has shock April surplus The UK posts a shock budget surplus in April, as the Treasury says it is meeting its fiscal rules.
Germany braces for sharp VAT hike The lower house of Germany's parliament approves raising VAT by 3% to 19% - the nation's biggest tax rise since World War II.
Japan sees boost to growth Japan's economy grew faster than expected in the first quarter of 2006, raising the chance of interest rate rises.
German producer prices up again Germany's producer price inflation reaches its highest level in 24 years, fuelling inflation fears.
US claim over Ecuador oil moves US oil firm Occidental seeks damages of $1bn (£529m) in a claim against the Ecuadorean government.
