Economics / Markets

The FTSE 100 has opened 1.3% lower this morning as global indices continue to decline.

Prudential has declined to comment on whether its chief executive, Tidjane Thiam, would receive a bonus this year after the failed bid he fronted for AIA cost shareholders an estimated £300m.

Annual inflation in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) area remained stable in April at 2.1%, although food and fuel prices rose.

The FTSE continues to fall, weighed down by fears over the global economic recovery and a massive sell-off in BP shares.

Banks in the eurozone will suffer "considerable" loan losses in 2010 and 2011, potentially leading to €195bn (£165bn) in futher write-downs, the European Central Bank (ECB) warns.

The Dow Jones has opened trading in negative territory with yesterday's surge petering out as cautious investors look to keep hold of profits ahead of the long weekend.

David Cameron today set out plans to reinvigorate the country's economy by promoting private enterprise and cutting taxes as he pledged to "re-open Britain for business".

F&C intends to vote against Prudential's proposed acquisition of AIA amid increased investor opposition to the deal.

Jupiter CIO John Chatfeild-Roberts says recent market volatility can offer opportunities for investors, but warns they must protect their capital as much as possible.

Global equity markets rallied yesterday as China denied reports it was reviewing its eurozone investments, with markets on both sides of the Atlantic climbing over 3%.