Global growth lifted to 3.6%
Fitch lifted its forecast for global growth this year to 3.6% from 2.8%. But the ratings firm said budget and current-account deficit in the U.S. cloud the longer-term outlook.

Bundersbank President resigns on graft charges
Weltke resigned as president of the German central bank on Friday, amid allegations of ethics violations related to accepting gifts and a bitter dispute with the government.

Russian court bans Yukos
A Russian court banned Yukos on Friday from selling assets, as tax authorities pressed a claim for $3.5 billion in back taxes and fines from the embattled oil company.

Myanmar to join Euro-Asian partnership
EU nations agreed to let Myanmar join a Euro-Asian partnership if pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi is freed.