Alcoa posts loss on sharply lower aluminum prices

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) - Alcoa Inc. said Wednesday it swung to a second-quarter loss as aluminum prices plunged from a year ago and as top customers continued to grapple with the persistent economic recession. See full story.
Hasbro hitches bigger sales to Transformers sequel

The toy maker is revving up for bigger sales thanks to the blockbuster Transformers sequel, with merchandise sales topping the 2007 product line by up to 25%, analysts say. See full story.
Oil slumps 4%, falling for sixth day

Crude-oil futures tumble more than 4% to a seven-week low, falling for the sixth straight session, as government data shows demand for petroleum products remains weak and as U.S. inventories rise. See full story.
NRG Energy rejects Exelon offer, shares rise

NRG Energy shares rise as the wholesale-power generator rejects a sweetened $7.45 billion all-stock buyout offer from Exelon -- but leaves the door open to considering a higher bid. See full story.
Treasurys jump after 'best' 10-year note auction

Treasury prices jump, pushing 10-year yields to the lowest in about seven weeks, after the U.S. government garnered record demand for $19 billion in the benchmark securities, the third of four major auctions this week. See full story.
MARKETWATCH COMMENTARY

Dell Inc. is paving the way for possible large acquisitions, but as analysts and the press pontificate on potential targets, it becomes increasingly clear that no one really knows what direction the company should take. See full story.
MARKETWATCH PERSONAL FINANCE

Think about when you fall in love: You feel great. You look at the world differently. You’re ready to take on any challenge. Wouldn’t you love to stay in that state forever?
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