Small firms outpaced by big-caps on earnings

As third quarter earnings season takes off, bigger is better. With the U.S. economy emerging from recession, large cap stocks are set to have a stronger third-quarter earnings season than their mid and small cap counterparts, which are expected to rebound at a slower pace. Read Full Article here.

Blackstone plans portfolio IPOs: source

Private equity firm Blackstone Group is planning to list up to eight of its portfolio companies, according to a source who received a letter the firm sent to investors on Friday. Read Full Article here.

Tengzhong seeks approval for Hummer buy; hurdles seen

Tengzhong, the Chinese buyer of General Motor's Hummer brand, aims to close the deal by early 2010, with regulatory approval looming as the first of what will likely be multiple hurdles on the road ahead. Read Full Article here.

Obama aide defends stimulus package

President Barack Obama's top economic adviser said on Monday the United States is on the path toward economic recovery, conditions in financial markets are steadier and there have been initial signs of stabilization in the housing market. Read Full Article here.

U.S. firms gave options to execs during merger talks: report

Several U.S. companies have awarded stock options to top executives while engaged in merger negotiations, the Wall Street Journal said, citing an academic research paper and its own review of company filings. Read Full Article here.

Philips beats forecasts but still cautious

Philips Electronics reported better than expected third-quarter results on Monday, boosting its share price as the benefits of its cost-cutting program took effect, but the company said it had still not seen a recovery in most of its markets. Read Full Article here.

Lazard says CEO Wasserstein hospitalized

Investment bank Lazard Ltd said on Sunday that Chairman and Chief Executive Bruce Wasserstein, a legendary dealmaker, had been hospitalized for an irregular heartbeat. Read Full Article here.