Economics Brent crude slipped toward US$109 a barrel on Thursday, on rising oil stockpiles and weaker fuel demand in the United States, while fears that the world's largest economy might miss a deadline for next year's budget kept bulls in check. More from Reuters Gold dropped about 1 percent on Thursday after the Federal Reserve linked its monetary policy to unemployment, raising concerns that future economic stimulus could be limited. More from Reuters Lebanon's Higher Council for Urban Planning has expressed deep reservations about Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s proposal to introduce taxes on the cost of newly constructed apartments. More from The Daily Star The delay of a crucial International Monetary Fund loan amid widening political turmoil is a major blow to Egypt's teetering economy. It is also a sign of the enormous difficulties ahead for reforms that experts say are necessary for a democratic transition. More from
