ARK Group has inked a deal for international concert promoter Live Nation Worldwide Inc. to book events at ARK’s $27 million N.C. Music Factory in Charlotte.

Steve & Barry’s will liquidate by early 2009 after its new owners said they would not be able to find financing, according to a report by Reuters.

US Airways Group Inc. has reinstated mileage-award benefits for frequent flyers. (LCC)

A national nursing credentials organization has recognized four Presbyterian Healthcare hospitals for providing the highest level of nursing care under the organization’s standards.

Defense giant General Dynamics Corp. has agreed to acquire AxleTech International of Michigan.

Annual bonuses and stock-based awards may contract with the economy, according to a survey by New York consulting company Pearl Meyer & Partners.

Wachovia Corp. Chief Executive Bob Steel said Thursday that Charlotte could eventually see more jobs under Wells Fargo & Co. than Wachovia’s current 20,000 employees here, but that will depend more on industry trends than the impact of the banks’ merger. (WB) (C) (WFC)

The Securities and Exchange Commission is investigating whether mortgage giant Golden West Financial Corp. misled borrowers with its lending practices. (WB) (WFC)

Cato Corp. reports a 72 percent drop in earnings for its third fiscal quarter ended Nov. 1 from the prior year. (CTR)

The former chief financial officer at First Charter Corp. has assumed that role at Uwharrie Capital Corp.