Money Minute: Milk Price Probe, More Free Gas

BusinessMoney Minute: Milk Price Probe, More Free GasMoney Minute: Milk Price Probe, More Free GasThe Associated PressGas prices are high, food's more expensive and the job market's cold, but the U.S. may still avoid a recession, at least according to one economic report. (May 19)AP Money MinuteGas prices are high, food's more expensive and the job market's cold, but the U.S. may still avoid a recession.That's the message from the New York-based Conference Board, a private business group whose index of leading economic indicators defied expectations and inched higher in April.Six of ten leading indicators rose for the month, including stock prices, interest rate spreads and housing permits. Those increases more than offset the sharp declines in average weekly hours worked and consumer spending.------------------------------T he Wall Street Journal is reporting Federal regulators are investigating a milk price-manipulation scheme. The investigation is focusing on the Kansas City-based dairy cooperative, which controls about a third of the nation's milk supply. Separately, the Justice Department is preparing to investigate a recently disclosed $1 million transfer to a former director of the Dairy Farmers of America.----------------------------Chry sler is extending its offer to subsidize customers' gasoline prices for three years. The deal caps gas at $2.99 per gallon with Chrysler paying the rest. People who buy or lease eligible vehicles can pick between the gas subsidy, cash rebates or zero percent financing. On some vehicles, customers can get rebates and the gas subsidy. It was to expire June 2, but now will go through July 7.I'm Mark Hamrick with AP Money Minute. ___ ___, The Associated Press.