[Regulation] The Federal Trade Commission intends to gather data from 50 major food companies on how much they market to children and how much they spend. Comments on this plan are being taken through Dec. 21. ...Read the whole story

[Financial Services] Cashing in on the growing popularity of gift cards, American Express introduced a personalized line of cards and cheques tailored to kids and teens as well as special occasions. An extra bonus: special offers from participating retailers and restaurants. ...Read the whole story

[Electronics] Nintendo announced $190 million in sales for the first eight days of its new game-playing system Wii, which is drawing positive reviews for its multi-generational appeal. But ultimately the games will determine whether Wii or Sony's PlayStation 3 comes out on top. ...Read the whole story

[Beverages] Anheuser-Busch expects to capitalize on a Chinese market that is growing more sophisticated in its tastes and stronger in its purchasing. The company will invest over the next two years to expand its footprint, CFO Randy Baker said yesterday. ...Read the whole story

[Appliances] Marketers are beating the drum and spending significantly to get consumers jazzed about single-serve "pod" coffeemakers. But the product's popularity in Europe has failed to translate into success in the U.S. ...Read the whole story

[Beauty] Freed from the distraction if its retail business, Alberto-Culver is the hair care marketer to watch, says a Deutsche Bank analyst. ...Read the whole story

[Restaurants] Fast-casual sandwich chain Bear Rock Cafe plans to expand its dinner business after an investment from the country's second-largest Burger King franchisee. ...Read the whole story