Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sweden - eurozone's problems have caused country to cut its main interest rate by a 0.25% to 1.25%

Published on Dec 20, 2011 by
http://www.euronews.net/ The eurozone's problems have caused Sweden to cut its main interest rate by a quarter of a percent to one and a quarter percent.

The central bank said it expects to keep it at that level next year.

It blamed "considerable uncertainty regarding the eurozone's public-finance problems".

More than half of Sweden's exports go to the eurozone and it has already see a fall in orders from the region.

Germany - latest survey of German companies shows worried by the eurozone's debt problems, slowdown, austerity measures.


Published on Dec 20, 2011 by
http://www.euronews.net/ The latest survey of German companies shows they do not seem particularly worried by the eurozone's debt problems and the slowdown that comes with austerity measures.

Business sentiment rose sharply in December -- the second month running that has happened -- in stark contrast to the rest of Europe.

France - 30,000 women have been told they must have their breast implants removed.


Published on Dec 20, 2011 by
http://www.euronews.net/ Around 30,000 women in France have been told they must have their breast implants removed.

It is alleged that the manufacturer Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) used a type of silicone gel which was not intended for medical use, so the implants have a higher rupture rate.

Eight patients who received the implants are reported to have developed cancer, but Plastic Surgeon Laurent Lentieri says this is not a risk:

Iraq - fresh fears of a rise in sectarian violence after arrest warrant for the Sunni vice president, Tariq al-Hashemi.


Published on Dec 20, 2011 by
http://www.euronews.net/ In Iraq, there are fresh fears of a rise in sectarian violence after authorities issued an arrest warrant for the Sunni vice president, Tariq al-Hashemi.

He has been accused of running a hit squad that assassinated government and security officials. The warrant for Iraq's highest ranking Sunni official was issued a day after US troops left the country prompting the White House to express its concern.

Russell Grant's Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday 21st December 2011

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Aries (Mar21/Apr20) Spending time with friends gives you a great deal of pleasure, but it can be costly. Instead of heading out to restaurants, clubs, and theatres, invite the gang over for a casual evening of food, fun, and festivities. Encourage guests to bring friends. If you're single, you could meet someone special this way. Of course, you'll want to look your best, even if you've planned a relaxing evening. Wear red, your signature colour. It always ignites your inner fire.
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Taurus (Apr21/May21) There are some problems that can't be solved with warmth and kindness. It may be better to cut ties with a difficult client than accommodate their needs. Some people are intent on beating the system. Accepting damaged merchandise or offering a sizable discount will only fuel this customer's desire to get more for less. Remember, you have a right to be well paid for your work. If a manipulator fails to recognise this, you should dispense with their business.
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Gemini (May22/Jun21) Irrational fears are stopping you from taking a risk. Lean on a brave friend for support. If you yearn to further your education, but are afraid of applying to colleges, call somebody who enjoys a challenge. With their assistance, you can fill out applications and send them out before Christmas arrives. The sooner you dispatch this task, the better. Putting it off will only undermine your resolve. Don't worry if you weren't successful with a past course of study.
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Cancer (Jun22/Jul23) A generous gift allows you to afford luxuries that are normally out of reach. Go ahead and treat yourself to an expensive gadget. Normally, you do without as a means to accommodate your nearest and dearest. It might be wise to keep this present a secret from a friend who is down on their luck. You wouldn't want jealousy to get in the way of a friendship. It's hard to rejoice over other people's good fortune when you're down on your luck.
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Leo (Jul24/Aug23) You attract romance like a flower draws bees. Don't let all this attention go to your head. Just because you're an object of desire doesn't mean you should play with people's affections. Be compassionate towards someone who has a crush on you, especially if you don't return their feelings. Your heart belongs to an athletic visionary. The sooner you establish whom you really want, the faster the rejected party will be able to heal. Stop dragging your feet.
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Virgo (Aug24/Sep23) Being of service to others always gives you pleasure. Take care you don't create a cycle of dependence with someone you admire. As much as you'd like, it's impossible to be at their beck and call. You have your own responsibilities to fulfil. Besides, a lover is eager for your company. Sneaking away to some private retreat together will recharge your batteries. Stop underplaying your sensual side. It is more powerful than you'd like to admit.
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Libra (Sep24/Oct23) You're the life of the party, which is why you get so many invitations! If you're single, you're sure to meet a love connection at a Christmas party. You find a cool rebel especially intriguing. Let the courtship phase of your relationship play out over a long period. Jumping into bed together at the first sign of attraction will be anticlimactic. Romance is like a delicate plant. It needs care, time, and attention to flourish. If you already have a lover, be mindful of their physical desires.
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Scorpio (Oct24/Nov22) Christmas is the perfect time for you to entertain. Normally, you're quite reclusive. There's something about the festive season that prompts you to let down your defences. Your best friend or lover might resent all the time you put into planning a big party. Try to appease their fears. Just because you want to celebrate your social circle doesn't mean you no longer prize your intimate relationships. It's time to take a more balanced approach to your private life.
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Sagittarius (Nov23/Dec21) This is a lovely time to explore a new local hangout. You're always looking for a place where you can relax and connect with friends. Don't tell colleagues about this retreat. Draw a firmer line between your personal and professional lives. If you're single, you will meet someone special at a gym, sporting event, or competition. Keep your eyes open for someone with a shaved head, fabulous mane, or spectacular hat. The two of you will feel an instinct connection.
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Capricorn (Dec22/Jan20) Your impeccable taste helps you choose some beautiful, valuable items at an antique market. Think twice before buying a highly expensive item for a loved one who won't appreciate it. You're better off choosing something to supplement your home, like a gorgeous rug or handcrafted table. If you don't like the price that is initially offered, haggle for a lower one. You can drive a hard bargain when it comes to something you really want. Put those negotiation skills to work.
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Aquarius (Jan21/Feb19) You've never put much emphasis on appearance, preferring to develop your intellect. Still, there is a great deal of satisfaction to be found from looking your best. This doesn't mean you have to conform to your family's idea of beauty. There is no reason you can't treat yourself to a spa or salon treatment. Adding some stylish items to your wardrobe is also advised. You don't have to spend a lot of money to look terrific. Distinctive colours and styles suit your fashion sensibility.
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Pisces (Feb20/Mar20) An unknown benefactor recommends you for a job. You probably don't remember this, but you helped a colleague cope with a serious problem long ago. This kind gesture has created some good karmic energy. Be wary about a relative or neighbour's promises. If you're planning to move, you should have a backup plan, just in case your helper drops out at the last minute. Be careful about hitting the 'send' button after writing an emotional text or email.
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Britain - boycotts IMF eurozone rescue scheme

Uploaded by on Dec 20, 2011
Several European countries have agreed to provide 150bn euros (£125bn; $194bn) to the International Monetary Fund.

Germany, Italy and Spain have agreed to contribute to a scheme that could be used to help countries in the eurozone struggling to pay their debts.

But Britain's decision not to take part in the scheme meant EU finance ministers failed to reach their target sum of 200bn euros.

Wendy Urquhart reports.

Iran - US calls for Iran to free alleged CIA spy Amir Mirzai Hekmati

Published on Dec 20, 2011 by
http://www.euronews.net/ The United States has called for Iran to immediately release an American of Iranian descent accused of being a CIA spy.

Amir Mirzai Hekmati has been shown on Iranian state TV, making what it called a confession, saying US intelligence services had trained him.

Hekmati joined the US army ten years ago, the report said, showing pictures of him in what seemed to be American military bases.

This is Tehran's latest claim of success in a spying war with Washington.

Song That You Wish You Could Have Performed TheXFactorUSA 2011

Uploaded by on Dec 19, 2011
A clip from THE X FACTOR press conference this afternoon with our Top 3 finalists and judges.