Google, Apple, IBM and eBay are all hiring. Good news for the flagging U.S. jobs market, right? Not exactly: Many of the positions being created are for openings overseas. And that's not likely to change, because companies have learned to do more with less since the Great Recession.
Consumer sentiment is at its lowest level in two years, while the so-called "Misery Index" stands at a three decade-high. And it's true: Americans aren't spending as robustly as they once were. But when you look at the numbers, it becomes clear that U.S. consumers aren't down for the count just yet.
In its first 100 years, IBM soldiered forward by dominating in America. But Big Blue's second quarter results -- particularly its strong growth in expanding markets -- show that the next 100 years will be all about global dominance.
IBM beat Wall Street expectations with its fourth-quarter earnings released Thursday, growing profit 9% and sales 7%. The company has gained from increased corporate spending on computer upgrades and on outsourcing.
Even after a round of acquisitions in 2010, some big tech companies are still rolling in cash -- and 2011 looks like another promising year for tech mergers. Here's columnist Peter Cohan's list of top tech acquisition targets for 2011.
IBM says it will donate a total of $50 million in free technology and services to 100 U.S. cities that can best use it to boost their efficiency in healthcare, education, transportation and other areas.
International Business Machines on Monday said its new Federal Community Cloud will provide cloud-computing services to the U.S. government. IBM is already working with 15 federal departments and is now aiming for state and local governments as well.
IBM shares soared 69 cents past their record high, set during the dot-com boom, to reach $139.88 per share before closing at $139.66 per share Monday. The rally reflects a slight market upswing and news of strong quarterly earnings from a competitor.
Hewlett-Packard (HPQ) is suing its former chief executive, Mark Hurd, after news that he will be taking the post of co-president at competitor Oracle (ORCL). HP alleges that Hurd could end up violating confidentiality agreements by accepting the position.
