WINNERS

STEVE BALLMER

Microsoft chief is in catbird seat to snag Yahoo! on the cheap – if he wants it.

MERRILL BROKERS

The “thundering herd” forces Bank of America to let them contact clients even if the brokers quit.

CHRIS COX

Oft-criticized SEC chief’s short-selling ban sharply reduces cases of naked short-selling.

LOSERS

RICHARD FULD

Former Lehman Bros. boss rudely told there will be no parting gifts at year’s end.

MICKEY MOUSE

The economic slowdown dings Disney’s once invincible theme-park business.

STEVE SCHWARZMAN

Blackstone head sees gigantic 3Q losses totaling almost $500M for private-equity firm.