IDBI plans to shrink disbursements target
IDBI plans to revise downwards its disbursements target for the current financial year. IDBI executive director, SK Chakrabarti said that the disbursement target for fiscal 1998-99 at Rs 23,000 crore is not likely to be achieved because of the continued slowdown in the economy.

Aetna to buy Prudential unit for $1 billion
Aetna Inc confirmed it's plan to buy Prudential Insurance Co of America's health care business for $1 billion in a deal that will make it the country's largest provider of health and dental benefits.

Sterlite to toe green body line on re-opening Tuticorin smelter
Sterlite Industries has agreed to abide by almost all pre-conditions laid out by the National Environmental Engineering Institute for re-opening its copper-smelter plant at Tuticorin.

CORPORATE
Nikko to form venture with Salomon
Satyam Infoway unveils ready-to-use Net service

ECONOMY
Local software firms to gain from technology conversion to euro
Rajasthan prefers SSP due shortage of DAP

EXPRESSIONS
This is no reform
BJP needs to initiate dialogue on decisions

MARKETS
Oil prices recover slightly in Asia
Price fall fails to cheer Japanese cobalt

LEISURE
HK opens pay-TV market, allows more competition
Brand extensions gives freedom to leverage: Kapferer