THE ECONOMY.(TO THE POINT)

World Bank says world economy

may be slipping into a recession

In its annual global economic report, the bank said while signs point to a probable recovery in mid-2002, the risks it won't happen are the "gravest in a decade." For the first time in more than two decades, the world faces simultaneous downturns in the top three economic engines: the U.S., Japan and Europe.

Gov't to hold economic meetings

The Bush administration will hold a series of town meetings around the U.S. in coming months to assess how businesses are coping in the wake of Sept. 11, Commerce Secretary Don Evans said. Those invited to participate will include small business owners, workers, economists and CEOs of major firms.

Markets divine larger debt swap

as rumors swirl about Argentina