For decades, the United States has been the number one global economic power. But during the past few years, it has faced a sluggish economy, millions of Americans out of work, a huge budget deficit and a polarized political environment. All of these factors have compelled some experts here and abroad to ask whether the United States is a powerful nation in decline.
New data on the US economy, including a huge drop in a regional manufacturing survey, has heightened market fears of a new recession.
A total of 22 fake Apple stores have been uncovered in one Chinese city.
France, Italy, Spain and Belgium have banned short-selling on the shares of banks and other financial companies.
Nato has deployed peacekeepers in the north of Kosovo after a border post with Serbia was burnt down and a Kosovo policeman killed.
US pop star Katy Perry leads the way at this year's MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) with nine nominations.
An American blogger has discovered three fake Apple stores operating in Kunming city, China.
The next court hearing for former IMF chief Domique Strauss-Kahn has been postponed until 1 August after a request by both sides for more time to continue their investigations into allegations of sexual assault made by a New York hotel maid.
President Barack Obama has told lawmakers he wants agreement on a US debt deal in 24-36 hours, Republican and Democratic aides say.
Syria has accused the US of "interfering" in its affairs after the US ambassador to the country travelled to the flashpoint city of Hama