What the other papers say this Morning
FINANCIAL TIMES
Steel chief Mittal upbeat on US growth
US manufacturing is poised to reap the benefits of cheaper energy, propelling the world’s largest economy into a new growth phase, says Lakshmi Mittal, chairman and chief executive of ArcelorMittal.
Brussels backs Hutchison Orange deal
Europe’s top competition authority approved the acquisition of France Telecom’s Orange Austria operation by Hong Kong’s Hutchison, but set a series of tough conditions that could still derail the deal. The decision by Brussels to greenlight the €1.3bn deal – which was seen by the telecom industry as a test case for whether consolidation would be allowed within national telecoms markets – will be welcomed by mobile operators.
Lone Star in German property deal
The German government has completed its largest privatisation since the start of the financial crisis, selling a €1.1bn (£890m) portfolio of offices, shops and warehouses to Lone Star, the US private equity fund.
THE TIMES
Shale gas cloud hangs over Sussex
The shale gas driller that triggered two mini-earthquakes near Blackpool last year is ready to start fracking near the village in 2014. Cuadrilla Resources’ presence is expected to bring protests from residents.
Berlin warns UK is wrong about EU
Britain is leaving itself with “no voice in Europe” by drifting to the margins of the EU, according Wolfgang Schäuble, the German Finance Minister.
The Daily Telegraph
BHP Billiton sells stake in LNG project
China continues its grab for global energy assets, as it agrees to buy a stake in an proposed Australian gas project from BHP Billiton, the world’s biggest mining company, for $1.63bn (£1bn).
Unilever boss warns of Europe slump
Europe faces a decade-long slump unless France and Germany resolve their differences and leaders stop “watering down” decisions over the future of the eurozone, Paul Polman, the chief executive of Unilever has said.
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
Facebook simplifies privacy settings
Facebook took steps yesterday to simplify its privacy settings, in its latest bid to give consumers more control and clarity over what personal information is shared.
Puma chief executive to leave
Puma said yesterday its chief executive Franz Koch will step down next spring, part of a broad management overhaul by the German sportswear brand’s owner PPR aimed at improving the fortunes of the struggling label.