Also

* Microsoft Corp. said it planned to release its next-generation Xbox 360 video game console Nov. 22 in North America, followed by a European launch Dec. 2 and Japanese debut Dec. 10. The company has said that the device will sell for $399 with a detachable hard disc drive, or $299 without.

* Cendant Corp., owner of the Days Inn and Ramada brands, agreed to buy the Wyndham hotel brand for $100 million to add an upscale lodging name.

* Rock star Gene Simmons of Kiss has been named a managing director of boxing venture BBKO Ltd. to help add entertainment elements to a lineup of boxing matches that are intended to be shown as television programming. BBKO is a unit of Orbit Brands Corp., based in Los Angeles.