In the News: Twitter Transparency, Microsoft Write-Off and more

Twitter releases Google-inspired transparency report, showing US in the lead for user data requests, as site loses NYC legal battle over privacy of user data.

Microsoft writes off $6.2 billion spent on aQuantive, "slows" Internet hopes.

AMC Networks stock rises on AT&T settlement.

Anderson Cooper, CNN's biggest star (finally, bullied?), comes out of the closet.

Apple loses bid to block HTC smartphones from the U.S.

Barclays scandal that cost chairman his title may spread as CEO remains "defiant."

Best Buy considers in-store competitor price-streaming.

Chick-fil-A's anti-gay donations tally: $2 million in 2010.

Facebook users report email changes tampering with smartphone contacts as mobile becomes top priority.

FTC warns marketers about "up to" ad claims.

Google strikes a deal to resolve EU anticompetitive search claims, makes global week of service more skills-based.

J Brand hires bank to explore options.

Mercedes-Benz lags in China behind Audi and BMW.

Nielsen acquires Vizu to bolster cross-platform measurement.

Nike sponsors expanded World Basketball Festival in London, Paris, Washington, D.C. and Barcelona.

Taco Bell shifts digital business, sees text spam case dismissed.

Toyota, Honda and Nissan are expected to be up by double digits in June US car sales reports.

Uber downshifts from elite mobile app status.

& Study finds US consumers more loyal to retail stores and products than brands.