Markets: News  

U.S. stock futures steady ahead of Fed decision

Stock market futures skew modestly higher ahead of a policy decision from the Federal Reserve and potential easing. Blue chip Procter & Gamble could come under pressure after a profit warning. See full story.

Europe stocks inch higher on central-bank hopes

Central banks take center stage on Wednesday, with a more positive stance on easing from the Bank of England lifting markets out of losses, while investors looked to the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy announcement later in the day. See full story.

Asia stocks gain as Fed hopes rise

Asia markets rise as hopes for a fresh round of stimulus to revitalize the U.S. economy buoy sentiment, though trading volumes are light, suggesting caution in the markets. See full story.

What's your question for Bernanke

Ask your question to Bernanke in the comment section below, and MarketWatch may pose it to the central bank chief when he holds his quarterly press conference at 2:15 p.m. Eastern on Wednesday. See full story.

Fed expected to twist again

The Federal Reserve is likely to extend its Operation Twist program at the end of its two-day meeting on Wednesday, a growing number of Fed watchers say. See full story.

After 15 years in New York City covering Wall Street, David Weidner is leaving. He leaves 15 observations on the industry he's hated to love and loved to hate. See full story.

When it comes to IRAs, timing is everything. Robert Powell looks at five rules that could derail your retirement-savings plans. See full story.