As the Dollar Falls, Foreign Nationals Shop for U.S. Firms

In addition to iPods, laptops and other consumer goods, U.S. companies increasingly are found on the shopping lists of European, Canadian and other foreign buyers drawn to the United States by the falling U.S. dollar.

In 2007, foreign investors bought stakes in U.S. companies whose businesses range from financial services and real estate to steel making and lighting. Foreign acquisitions totaled a record $414 billion, almost 90 percent more than the previous year and almost 30 percent more than 2000's record, according to Thomson Financial, an economic data and research firm.

The relative weakness of the U.S. dollar creates opportunities for companies in countries with stronger currencies. They can buy U.S. businesses at bargain prices, according to economists.

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