In the U.S., stocks have held up relatively well in spite of gloomy economy reports in part because of expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon step in with a third round of quantitative easing, known in the market as QE3.

WSJ: Dow Closes Above 13000; First Time Since May 7

During that auction, the Bundesbank had to step in and purchase a third of the 6 billion euros of debt after private investors scoffed.

FORBES: Euro Debt to Hit Maximum Stress

Plans for a third railway station in Worcester have moved a step closer after receiving government backing.

BBC: Worcestershire Parkway plans progress