Business

New York -- U.S. markets tipped lower Friday morning after a week of shaky economic data.

Washington-- A Congressional panel approved a bill that would put the traditionally independent U.S. Federal Reserve under closer scrutiny of politicians.

Washington -- The Mortgage Bankers Association said nearly 10 percent of U.S. homeowners were one payment or more behind on their mortgage payments.

New York -- Crude oil prices dipped below $77 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as declines in equity markets hinted at slow demand.

Tokyo -- Japan, hit by falling prices, is faced with a deflationary situation despite recent signs of recovery, the government said Friday.

Chicago -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as equities dropped and oil prices fell due to concerns of slow demand.

Washington -- Sources close to the government said the Obama administration is leaning toward an extension of the $700 billion bailout fund, in part to pay down U.S. debt.

Washington -- First-time claims for U.S. unemployment insurance benefits were unchanged in the week ending Nov. 14, the U.S. Department of Labor said Thursday.

New York -- U.S. markets fell early Thursday, despite news from the Labor Department that initial jobless claims declined in the week ending Nov. 14.

New York -- Crude oil prices dropped to nearly $79 per barrel overnight in part because the weather has been nice, industry analysts said.