The weakness in the global bond market is surprising for one primary reason: It’s a sign central banks may finally be taking the right steps to get the worldwide economy back on track. Central banks have taken a lot of heat by trying to combat slowing economic growth and inflation with the same strategies that have so far largely failed ...

In many respects, Japan’s economy is doing better than at any time since the boom years of the 1980s. The employment rate is at all-time highs. Women have flooded into the labour force, and immigration is helping to cushion the blow of an aging society. Japanese companies, once known for low margins, are learning how to increase profits, helped by ...

Forever 21 Inc. has learned the hard way that the allegiance of teen shoppers is anything but everlasting. The fast-fashion retailer filed for bankruptcy, saying it has obtained $350 million in financing to help it stay afloat. The company said it plans to close most of its Asian and European stores in order to focus on its core business in ...