RIM’s BlackBerry Messenger App Dilemma

Research In Motion’s plans to make its BlackBerry Messenger service available as an app on Androids and iPhones will get its signature software in front of a wider audience. But will RIM’s initiative win new customers, or canni…

Why Stock Buybacks Are a Warning Sign for Smart Investors

Last year saw a surge in stock repurchases — companies like ExxonMobil, Walmart and Microsoft bought back shares at record levels. Buybacks can be seen as a cash giveaway to investors, and they boost earnings per share. But th…

Week in Preview: Discover, Oracle and Tiffany Earnings

Oracle, Discover and Tiffany are all expected to report year-over-year growth for their most recent quarters this week. Meanwhile, many will be looking for an updated snapshot of the housing market, with three sets of real-esta…

Cash Donations Key in Japan Relief Efforts

Companies in the U.S. and elsewhere are ready with their donations to help the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan. But experts say hard cash, and not services and supplies, are needed most in the immediate aftermath of a m…