The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell below 7,000 yesterday, for the first time since May 1997, largely on news that ailing insurance and reinsurance giant American International Group Inc. (NYSE: AIG) recorded the largest quarterly loss in U.S. history. more

The Providence City Council is expected next month to consider the Abandoned Property Registration, Security and Maintenance ordinance, which strengthens local efforts to fix up so-called nuisance properties. The ordinance would be the first of its kind in the state if approved. It would create a series of fees and fines designed to prevent residential properties from staying vacant or falling into disrepair. more

The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index reached its highest mark so far this year in April, with the largest monthly gain in more than three years. Do you feel more confident about the economy now than last month? more

General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner resigned Sunday, as a condition of the federal government continuing to support the troubled automaker. Was the administration correct in asking him to quit? more

Traffic has been declining for a number of years at the state’s only major commercial airport, leading some to wonder if the planned extension of the main runway at the airport is needed. What do you think? more

Speaking to the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce last week, U.S. Chamber of Commerce COO David C. Chavern talked up the vitality and internationally competitiveness of the U.S. manufacturing. Which industry sector would you invest in today for the highest expected return? more

Rhode Island lost 22,000 jobs in 2008, as the state's unemployment rate rose to 10 percent, second in the nation to Michigan, and the highest the state has achieved using the current methodology since 1982. more