Consumers borrowed less for a record eighth straight month in September amid rising unemployment and tight credit conditions.

Consumers likely reduced their borrowing for an eighth straight month in September, as layoffs continue and credit remains tight. The declines in borrowing are expected to drag on the fledgling economic recovery.

Businesses likely slashed wholesale inventories for a record 13th consecutive month in September. But analysts expect sales rose for a sixth straight month.

Businesses likely slashed wholesale inventories for a record 13th consecutive month in September. But analysts expect sales rose for a sixth straight month.

Consumers likely reduced their borrowing for an eighth straight month in September, as layoffs continue and credit remains tight. The declines in borrowing are expected to drag on the fledgling economic recovery.

How October sales at 30 chains compared with October 2008:

Summary of sales at stores open at least a year in October for discount chains, with percentage increase or decrease over the same month last year.

By Nicole Maestri

Costco Wholesale Corp. said Thursday that sales at stores open at least a year climbed 5 percent in October, helped by strengthening foreign currencies.

Despite signs of improved foot traffic at retail stores, the majority of retailers posted same-store sales Thursday that fell short of estimates.

(Reuters) - Costco Wholesale Corp <COST.O> reported a 5 percent increase in October same-store sales, helped by a weak U.S. dollar that helped push up international sales.

Accused Ponzi schemer Tom Petters tried to put off an audit of his businesses shortly before they collapsed, the government's star witness testified on Monday.

The world's largest retailer wants to keep its customers even after they die.

The world's largest retailer wants to keep its customers even after they die.

With many families suddenly struggling to feed themselves, the big warehouse clubs known for king-size packages of steak and jumbo boxes of Cheerios are increasingly competing with grocery stores for the 36 million Americans now on food stamps.