World stock markets fell Thursday on mounting concerns about global economic growth as leading U.S. retailers revealed they are feeling the pinch.

Three Canadian adventurers have set a world record for the fastest crossing of Antarctica to the South Pole, traveling 1,130 kilometers (700 miles) on skis, snowshoes and on foot.

Venus Williams crushed world number one Jelena Jankovic in straight sets as she kept Team Americas on track to qualify for the final of the Hong Kong World Team Challenge Thursday.

European stock markets extended losses Thursday on predictions Wall Street will open sharply lower following profit warnings from Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's biggest retailer, and department stores chain Macy's Inc.

European stock markets fell for the second consecutive day Thursday after earlier big Asian losses amid mounting concerns about the world economy and the financial health of businesses around the globe.

Japan's Sony Corp plans to launch the world's lightest 8-inch notebook PC, taking aim squarely at a rapidly growing market for ultra-portalbe personal computers.

Wolverine World Wide Inc., which makes Merrell and Hush Puppies shoes, said Thursday it will cut 450 jobs -- about 10 percent of its staff -- in a cost-saving effort.

World stock markets drop; U.S. markets poised to open lower again.