Stocks in the news: Wal-Mart, MBIA, Sony, Whole Foods

The following post rounds up the companies making headlines today:

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT) reported a flat first-quarter profit on Thursday as revenue from its huge international operations was hurt by the stronger dollar. Results were inline with estimates, although revenue fell short of projections.

MBIA (MBI) is being sued by 19 banks over its business split. The lawsuit alleges that the company acted illegally when it split the business in two and that the move hurt policyholders as the insurance unit is now effectively insolvent. Shares were down over 9 percent in pre-market trading.