Business and Finance
HEWLETT-PACKARD'S earnings jumped 66% in the fiscal third quarter, lifted by strong global demand for its computer products. Profit totaled $576 million, which was at the high end of expectations, and new orders were stronger than expected, indicating continuing strength.</br></br>Compaq cut prices 13% to 25% on personal computers aimed at corporate customers, and H-P said it would more than match the reductions. The jockeying comes as PC makers prepare for the release of Windows 95, which is expected to spark sales.</br></br>---</br></br>Housing starts rose 6.7% in July, their fourth straight advance and the biggest in 16 months, as buyers took advantage of lower mortgage rates.</br></br>---