Reuters - Top U.S. lender Bank of America raised $2.83 billion from selling part of its holding in China Construction Bank (0939.HK) and Hong Kong's richest tycoon followed by selling a $500 million stake in rival Bank of China (3988.HK).

Reuters - Stock index futures fell on Wednesday due to caution ahead of an economic report likely to show further deterioration in the labor market.

AFP - British clothing-to-food retailer Marks & Spencer said Wednesday it would cut as many as 1,230 jobs and shut 27 stores as the group struggled with falling sales and a looming recession.