Nordic women are closest to enjoying parity with their male compatriots

Women in Nordic countries are closest to enjoying equality with men, according to the “Global Gender Gap Index 2007” published by the World Economic Forum, a think-tank. The study ranks 128 countries on 14 indicators covering political representation, access to education, health and economic participation. Nowhere is equality complete, but Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland are moving closer to it as labour-force participation rates and salaries become similar for the two sexes. New Zealand and the Philippines also benefit from better economic-participation rates. America falls eight places from 2006 because of worsening job opportunities for women. 

Happily for retailers and the wider economy, and despite lower consumer confidence, Americans are spending more than ever—online, at least. 

AMERICA’S spendthrift consumers have long been a driver of global economic growth, merrily emptying their wallets and purses on the back of rising house prices and cheap money. So, many nervous eyes have been watching how consumers would react to falling house prices and the squeeze on credit.

Happily for retailers and the wider economy, and despite lower consumer confidence, Americans are spending more than ever—online, at least. Since the beginning of November online spending is up by 18% compared with 2006, according to comScore, an internet-information provider. And on Thursday December 6th shoppers rang up $803m, the biggest online spending day yet, contributing to record weekly sales of $4.6 billion.

Two cities in Canada prove the most attractive destinations for business travellers.