Average house price in England and Wales approaching 2007 peak

The average house price in England and Wales is now just £3,500 off the peak of November 2007 thanks largely to a property price surge in London last month, according to the Land Registry.

Harsh weather tests optimism over U.S. economy

(Reuters) - Unusually cold weather will take a bite out of U.S. economic growth this quarter, but a rebound seems likely on the horizon and expectations for stronger growth this year have not changed.

US consumer confidence rises on better job outlook

WASHINGTON: US consumer confidence jumped this month on a better outlook for hiring and growth, supporting other signs that show the economy could accelerate in 2014.