Russia warns EU Iran oil embargo will be costly

(Reuters) - Russia pressed its case against new sanctions over Iran's nuclear program on Friday, saying an European Union ban on purchasing Iranian oil would end up hurting the bloc's member countries.

Oil prices rise on Fed's brighter US outlook

NEW YORK (AP) — Oil prices rose Wednesday after the Federal Reserve boosted its outlook for U.S. economic growth. Benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude added 57 cents to end at $104.12 per barrel in New York.

Global food prices on the rise again: World Bank

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Global food prices are rising again, pushed higher by costlier oil, strong demand from Asia and bad weather in parts of Europe, South America and the United States, the World Bank said on Wednesday.

The Global Note: Mexico’s Sea Change…Austerity Blues…Africa’s Cry For Help…A Marathoner’s Gift

It’s a statistic not seen in half a century. Net migration from Mexico has plummeted to zero thanks to changing demographic and economic conditions on both sides of the border, a new study says, even as political battles over illegal immigration heat up and the issue heads to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Prognosis for Social Security worsens

WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) — Social-Security benefits would have to be reduced a few years earlier than previously projected — in 2033 instead of 2036 — based on new estimates of the program’s finances.

Ex-national security adviser: No apologies to Israel over Iran’s nuke program

President Obama’s former national security adviser says the U.S. has no reason to apologize to Israel for its handling of Iran and notes that the U.S. has been able to “contain” other nations that have acquired nuclear weapons.

EU states agree in principle to suspend Myanmar sanctions: diplomats

(Reuters) - European Union governments are to suspend most sanctions against Myanmar next week, EU diplomats said on Thursday, in recognition of rapid political and economic reforms after decades of military dictatorship.