Germany cuts 2014 growth forecast from 1.8% to 1.2%

The German government has sharply cut its economic growth forecast for this year and next, citing "external" factors for the revision. It now expects growth this year to be 1.2%, down from its previous estimate of 1.8%.

Asian markets mixed after US shares slide

Asian shares have had a mixed day following a sell-off on Wall Street as investors worry about how weak global growth will affect companies' earnings.

Japan Boosts GDP Estimate as Abe Weighs Sales-Tax Increase

Japan’s economy grew faster than previously estimated in the second quarter, aiding Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s reflation campaign as he considers whether the nation can withstand a sales-tax increase.

Japan says economy's condition stable, but weak

TOKYO: Japan's economic condition stopped worsening, the outgoing government said on Friday in a monthly report, but it remains weak enough to justify a nudge from monetary and fiscal stimulus planned by the newly elected administration.