Free Republic

The results of Italy's general election could alter the balance of power within the EU, with far-right, eurosceptic parties set to helm the next government in Rome. Italy is making something of a U-turn from Mario Draghi’s premiership, which put Italy back in the driving seat of Europe and bolstered the influence of a country accustomed to punching below its weight. ADVERTISING Draghi sent out a warning to the right-wing coalition poised to succeed him at the helm of the EU’s third-largest economy as he wrapped up his last press conference, a week before Italy’s election. “We have a certain...

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has renewed his call for the transfer of Islamic embassies from Washington and for the boycott of United States President Donald Trump's administration until it reverses its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Warning of Trump's policies in the Arab world, Berri said: “We stand before attempts of a radical shift in American policies. Trump's decision is at the forefront of this coup.” Speaking on Tuesday at the Conference of Islamic Parliaments in Support of Jerusalem in Iran, Berri called for the closure of all “Israeli embassies in Arab and Islamic capitals,” he also called...

Despite potential tax and investment problems, more investors have been borrowing from their 401(k) plans or taking hardship withdrawals in recent months, some retirement plan providers say. Many in the field expect more borrowing in 2008, as consumers struggle with tighter credit and potentially higher mortgage payments. "I don't think it's a groundswell but it's enough to be noticed," said Rick Meigs, president of 401khelpcenter.com, which provides information on 401(k) plans. Increased borrowing on 401(k)s could be because of the credit crunch and slumping housing prices. To be sure, the indications are preliminary; it's too early to say why it's...