The credit freeze afflicting America's small businesses shows no signs of thawing. In the last three months of 2008, the Small Business Administration's flagship loan-guarantee program backed less than half the number of loans it approved a year earlier - a sign that fewer entrepreneurs are getting financing to start or expand their ventures.

It’s possible that this downturn could end quicker than anyone thinks.

MANILA, Philippines- Listed tuna exporter Alliance Tuna International Inc. will be acquiring majority stake in the "second-largest retailer of smoked seafood" in New Zealand.