Changed market conditions and an appalling economy has hit low end cash-and-carry outlets

Debt ceilings, double dips, currency volatility and Walmart — the <em>Mail & Guardian</em> rounds up the business highlights of 2011.

Six days after United States giant retailer Walmart completed its acquisition of a controlling stake in Massmart, it started advertising price cuts.

Walmart and its target, Massmart, are considering options to ensure a fair hearing after competition authorities delayed a hearing on Tuesday.