Luxury stores like Saks Fifth Avenue are losing sales as shoppers cut back. Nancy Marshall Genzer reports that hipsters are still attached to their brands, but Ross and TJ Maxx offer significant discounts.

Housing starts hit a 17-year low in July and a wholesale price report rose to a 27-year high, monthly statistics say. John Dimsdale puts the numbers in perspective and asks -- What's next?

Home Depot has been trying to build momentum for when the housing slump finally turns around. But Renita Jablonski reports homeowners aren't making home improvements beyond what's necessary, and that hurts business.

Sears, JCPenny and other stores are re-branding to appeal to a younger clientele. Sears even sought image advice from MTV. Nancy Farghalli reports that the new looks are ready for back-to-school shoppers.

The July Consumer Price Index rose more than expected, as the average weekly earnings fell in the same month. But how does that mesh with plummeting home prices? Mitchell Hartman reports.

As many as six banks are said to have agreed to buy back securities from the failed auction-rate market as part of a settlement with federal regulators. Is a global settlement in the works? Bob Moon reports.

Retail sales dropped for the first time in five months, according to the monthly numbers for July. One thing Americans aren't buying much this summer is big cars. Alisa Roth reports.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for... trademark infringement? Joel Rose has more on ice cream truck company Mister Softee's legal battle against imposters.

Some consumers are pushing their carts away from more expensive natural and organic brand names. So the Safeway grocery chain is offering its cheaper organic label -- even for competitors' shelves. Renita Jablonski reports.