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World Business Quick Take

■ Computers
Dell launches `greener' PCs
Dell Inc announced two environmentally friendlier desktop computer systems for business users on Thursday. Dell said lead-reduced versions of its OptiPlex GX520 and GX620 corporate desktop computers were available immediately worldwide. The new models eliminate lead from the power supply, motherboard and chassis. However, Dell said lead may still be present in certain other components as it continues to work with parts suppliers to eliminate the material, ahead of the EU's deadline of July next year requiring electronics shipped in the EU to be completely lead-free.

■ Internet
EBay to buy Shopping.com
EBay has agreed to a US$620 million deal to buy Shopping.com, as part of an effort to offset slowing growth in its core business of online auctions. The deal is eBay's largest acquisition since it paid US$1.5 billion for PayPal in 2002. Shopping.com is a price comparison Web site, allowing users to hunt down the cheapest prices for whatever they are trying to buy.

■ Macroeconomics
CFOs less optimistic in US
A survey of US chief financial officers (CFOs) released on Thursday found that CFOs are increasingly less optimistic about the US economy. The joint study by Duke University and CFO Magazine found that 38 percent of US CFOs are more optimistic about the economy in the current quarter, down from 46 percent last quarter. CFOs are also worried about continuous interest-rate hikes, with 86 percent saying that a rate of 4 percent would slow economic growth. The rate currently stands at 3 percent.

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