Fairfax Media and John Singleton's Macquarie Radio network are very close to finalising a $200 million talkback radio merger, less than a year after talks collapsed in bitter circumstances.

Travellers are expected to benefit “substantially” from lower oil prices, with global airlines forecast to drop average return ticket prices by 5.1 per cent next year after adjusting for inflation, according to the latest airline industry forecast.

Next year is shaping as another pivotal one for financial markets. We have asked a number of top investors and analysts which indicator they will be watching particularly closely.

Mining giant BHP Billiton says iron ore prices are unlikely to eclipse $US100 a tonne again, with expectations of steel consumption growth in China slowing further next year.

Next year is shaping as another pivotal one for financial markets. We have asked a number of top investors and analysts which indicator they will be watching particularly closely.