European Markets Look to U.S. Jobs Figures, As Local Economies Show Weakness

European markets eased back Friday as economic news failed to inspire and investors pinned hopes on the U.S. jobs figures to improve the mood. U.K. single price retailer Poundland, listed on the London market, but still part owned by private equity firm Warburg Pincus, pays rather more than a pound for smaller rival 99p Stores. It will still need regulatory approval to get to the checkout. Tate & Lyle’s sweeteners business sours, as markets are over-supplied. Germany’s Siemens cuts jobs to help stimulate productivity. Expects to see the results over the next two years.