Big data today means that a wide range of organizations, perhaps soon individuals, will be handling data stores that were previously the reserve of governments and well-funded research labs.

FORBES: Big Data Is Faster and Cheaper But Not New Or Revolutionary - IBM

Stores in the UK like Game and ShopTo are taking small deposits to reserve a console for Christmas.

FORBES: Move up http://i.forbesimg.com t Move down

Sales weakness in the retail sector, which the Federal Reserve pointed out in its latest Beige Book, extended beyond major big box stores.

FORBES: Costco Schools Competition With Strong Q2 Sales And Profit Amid Retail Weakness