Brands in the news: BP, Bayer, Chevron and Facebook

BP took an uncalled-for risk in the hours before the well blow-up, an investigator says.

Bayer champions benefits of “umbrella branding.”

Chevron makes bigger bet on natural gas through acquisition.

Facebook drives U.K. online display market.

Ford promotes a new brand “spirit” online.

General Motors reportedly will drop its venerable Mr. Goodwrench brand.

Groupe Danone is talking with Japanese suitors about selling bottled-water unit that includes Evian brand.

MSNBC puts Keith Olbermann back on the air, while the host apologizes to fans – but not the network.

Procter & Gamble and Wal-Mart perform best in their categories, according to their trading partners in a new study.

Rolls-Royce narrows in on cause of engine fire in Qantas aircraft.

Sara Lee sells bakery unit.

Vodafone to exit Softbank of Japan.