There now are 200 credit unions and other lenders using the automated direct, indirect and merchant lending software platforms from Teres Solutions, the company said.

The Los Angeles-based ByDesign Financial Solutions, which does business as Consumer Credit Counseling Services in several California markets, has announced its merger with the Richmond, Va.-based ClearPoint Counseling Solutions, effective May 1.

In a sign that the economy is still sluggish, sales of new homes fell .6% in March, the Commerce Department reported today.

Consumers bought fewer big-ticket items such as cars, appliances and office equipment last month, the Commerce Department reported today.