澳洲新闻 (ABC新闻快递) 2010-10-23（在线收听）

In business. The Australian Securities Exchange went into an unexpected trading halt yesterday afternoon, as rumors swirled about a possible takeover bid. The trading halts have renewed market speculation of a possible merger with the Singapore Stock Exchange. Shares in the eight billion Singapore Stock Exchange have also been halted. An ASX spokesman said the trading halt would remain in place until next Tuesday or when an announcement is made.

Lexus and Toyota drivers are being told to book their car in for an inspection after the Japanese manufacturer ordered a recall of more than 25,000 vehicles across the country. The announcement is a part of a global recall of more than 150,000 vehicles, involving faulty brake parts. The recall involves four specific vehicles produced under the Toyota and Lexus brands between 2003 and 2005.

And taking a look at the market numbers now. In the US, the Dow Jones is lower, the NASDAQ is up slightly. Australian shares ended the session yesterday higher. The All Ords was up 23 points and the ASX 200 gained 25. On the commodities' market, gold and oil are both higher. And let's check the currencies, the Australian dollar is buying around 98 US cents and almost 80 yen.