Welcome to another Weekly Newsmakers – your source for soundbites and recaps of fascinating and important stories that made headlines.

Tide Turns After a Flood of Chinese Listings – Wall Street Journal (Editor’s Pick)

While it was not too long ago that Chinese companies voraciously wanted to enter the U.S. securities market, investment banks such as Halter Financial Group and Roth Capital Partners LLC are now helping these same companies leave the market after years of advising clients on the supposed benefits of being listed publicly. This comes after realization that investor demand was consistently low for the listed Chinese companies, and with no investors, financing is also a difficult issue the companies have to face. Already, 25 U.S.-listed Chinese companies have announced plans to go private this year, up from 16 companies last year. Some analysts believe that some Chinese companies might wish to delist to “avoid the scrutiny that comes with being a public company.” Do you agree with the analysts? What are your feelings about international companies listing on the U.S. securities market? Weigh in via our comments section below.

Delta, Seeking London Access, Ponders a Stake in Virgin Atlantic – New York Times

Delta Air Lines is in negotiations to potentially buy out Singapore Airlines’ 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic Airlines. While no deal has been announced yet, the buyout would be the latest in a series of mergers where companies in the U.S. and Europe have consolidated to encourage profitability.

African Innovations at Brooklyn Museum – Weissman Center Reports (Editor’s Pick)
African Innovations is an ongoing exhibit at Brooklyn Museum that invites the museum patron to experience the continent’s artistic contributions since ancient times. Pieces are from a timespan of over 2,500 years, with a majority of the collection coming from the 19th and early 20th century. Themes that are considered in the collection include those of “protection, transitions, authority, masquerade, and personal beauty” and are sure to inspire art connoisseurs or anyone new to art alike. The exhibition runs until January 2nd. Check out a free tour of the gallery on Sunday, December 23, 2012 (after your finals, of course)! Directions to the museum: http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/visit/directions.php

Travel Through Historical New York – Weissman Center Reports

The city is offering “Candle Light Tours” of New York City’s oldest house at Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum in Brooklyn. Guests can learn about the advancements of lighting and life after dark in Colonial and Early America. College students pay a nominal $5 to enjoy this unique experience (Note: no persons under 15 years of age are permitted). The tours repeat weekends until December 16th, so be sure to check out the tour soon if you’re interested. Details here: http://www.wyckoffassociation.org/