KEY POINTS:
The top four business stories from nzherald.co.nz for Thu, Feb 12:
Fletcher Building half year profits fall 27pc
Fletcher Building has kicked off the latest results season by announcing a nearly 30 per cent profit fall for the six months to the end of 2008.
Manufacturing continues to slow down
Manufacturing activity got off to a poor start in 2009 with continued contraction in the sector, according to the BNZ Capital - Business NZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI).
NZ-registered firms hit by Madoff scam
Three New Zealand-registered companies are victims of the alleged US$50 billion ($95 billion) pyramid scheme run by disgraced American businessman Bernard Madoff.
Dole could save Samoan remittances
APIA - Even the quiet haven of the Pacific Islands is not immune from the global financial crisis.
The island nation of Samoa is concerned that a key part of its economy could be under threat.