Special charge threatens health merger

Article Abstract:

United HealthCare's pending $3.2 billion merger with Humana of Louisville, KY, is jeopardized by United HealthCare's $900 million special charge in the second quarter of 1998. The charge ignited discussions among analysts that Humana should discard the merger deal originally valued at $5.4 billion in stock plus $850 million in debt. Humana, which appeared shocked with Minneapolis, MN-based United HealthCare's charge, declared that it would evaluate its planned consolidation with United HealthCare.

Comment:

United HealthCare's pending $3.2 bil merger w/ this co is jeopardized by United's $900 mil special charge in the 2nd qtr of 1998

Acquisitions & mergers, Sales, profits & dividends, Health Care, Health Care and Social Assistance, Medical care, UnitedHealth Group Inc., Humana Health Care Plans Inc., Article

Advice vs. price

Article Abstract:

Traditional stockbrokers are increasingly facing competition from online trading firms which offer faster services at lower costs. Brokers, who once charged as much as $300 per trade, are losing clients who believe that they can do their own research and trade online for as low as $8. As a result, full-service brokerages such as Merrill Lynch are launching their own online trading services to protect their market share.

Market information - general, Securities Brokerage, Stock Brokerage, Stockbrokers

Later bedtime nearer for Nasdaq traders

Article Abstract:

The board of the National Assn of Securities Dealers have approved a proposal that would extend trading hours as early as September. The extended trading hours, which will initially involve the Nasdaq 100 stocks, is a result of the desire of small investors for increased access to after-hours trading. The expanded trading hours is also meant to counter competition from electronic commerce networks.

Securities and Commodity Exchanges, Services introduction, Securities Exchanges