The Federal Reserve joined other major central banks Wednesday in a coordinated effort to shore up the global financial system. The move comes at a time when credit is becoming tighter, especially in Europe, because of doubts about the health of big banks.

By adding "liquidity" to the world's markets, the central banks aim to keep credit flowing.

The increase in the ADP National Employment Report was well above economists' expectations. And it could be a sign that Friday's news from the government on November job growth will also be positive.

Elvis Costello's box set includes three CDs, a vinyl record and a coffee table book. To get all this, however, you are asked to pay $225. Costello seems to be shocked. On a website, he declares, "we are unable to recommend this lovely item as the price appears to be either a misprint or a satire."

The fair trade movement, which pays premiums to farmers in developing countries for meeting social and environmental standards, is growing quickly and contentiously. The nation's largest fair trade certifying agency has split from its international partner, hoping to expand the program to plantation-grown coffee. Some coffee sellers say the agency is just lowering standards to benefit corporate coffee companies.

The historic brand is made for customers who can shell out $400,000 for a car, and who appreciate touches like back seats that recline, laser-engraved motifs in the armrest and black lacquer trim. Daimler only sold about 200 of the cars last year, compared to several thousand by competitors Bentley and Rolls Royce.

Dec. 2 marks the 10-year anniversary of when energy giant Enron filed for bankruptcy. The next day, thousands of workers in the company's Houston headquarters lost their jobs. How has the city coped with company's demise?