Financial crisis weighs on executives' minds

By Patrick M. Fitzgibbons

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The most serious financial crisis in decades has caused business executives and government officials around the world to rein in expectations for short- and long-term growth and warn that business volatility will be around for some time.

In a series of interviews with Reuters reporters, executives -- from industries as varied as industrial manufacturing to property to auto makers -- spoke of the widening global credit crisis and their many concerns.

Most said they were keeping a close eye on the global banking sector, following the passage of the $700 billion bailout package and the continuing global credit problems.

Stock markets around the world continue to struggle due to concerns the bailout will not be enough.

This is Reuters' sixth wrap-up of comments on the crisis.

Following are excerpts and highlights from interviews with executives on Friday:

FORD MOTOR CO CHIEF EXECUTIVE ALAN MULALLY

Mulally ruled out a bankruptcy filing, saying the No. 2 U.S. automaker was focused on its turnaround and managing its cash "very, very carefully" as a market slowdown spreads to Europe and Asia.