Gates to end daily Microsoft role Bill Gates says he will end his day-to-day role as head of software giant Microsoft by 2008, to focus on his charity.
EADS boss denies A380 allegations The boss of EADS denies he did anything wrong ahead of a profit warning and other problems at plane firm Airbus.
US deficit eases as oil steadies The US current account deficit narrows to $208.7bn in the first quarter, helped by steadier oil prices.
French PM keen to privatise GDF France's Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin is keen to privatize Gaz de France, even as he faces internal party opposition.
Slovenia clear to adopt the euro EU leaders confirm Slovenia's adoption of the euro, making it the first new member to take up the currency.
Russia sees July WTO entry Russian President Vladimir Putin voices optimism that its WTO membership will be finalised by the middle of July.
GM workers take retirement deal More than 33,000 workers accept early retirement at car giant General Motors and its bankrupt parts supplier Delphi.
Poverty 'driving' benefit fraud People working while claiming benefits do so often because they are in dire financial trouble, a study suggests.
Bush warns against protectionism The US president warns against protectionism and says "tough decisions" must be made on trade talks.
