The tougher challenge, however, is to develop a consistent brand image for Starwood, as the economic climate grows bleaker.

ECONOMIST: Face value

How long the unions will co-operate remains uncertain, especially as the pain of economic hardship grows.

ECONOMIST: South Korea

The Dow's push above 15000 comes as investors' confidence in the economic recovery grows.

WSJ: Dow Caps First 15000 Finish

And I think leaders in the region understand that as China grows, as its economic influence expands, that the expectation is, is that they will be a responsible leader in the world economy -- which is what the United States has tried to do.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Holds a Press Conference at the APEC Summit

Some in Germany are aware of the dangers of the country being disliked as its economic power grows.

BBC: Cyprus bailout: Feeling unloved in Germany

Yet, even as evidence grows that there is a reasonable chance of economic recovery, the long-term prospects for the budget look as bleak as ever.

ECONOMIST: George Bush's big-government conservatism

As China grows in confidence, and economic power, it is sure to seize the opportunity to tackle its own concerns as an equal partner.

BBC: China to flex its financial muscles at US meeting