Economics / Markets

In London, markets flourished with the FTSE up 101.5 points (1.91%) to 5420.70

Positive results news coupled with a 12-week low in oil prices has led to a fast start for the FTSE100 this morning. London's blue-chip index is following the US and Asian lead, up 70.30 points (1.32%) to 5389.50.

A proposed merger between British Airways and Iberia helped the airline soar almost to the summit of the FTSE100 this afternoon.

The FTSE100 has edged into the black in mid-morning trading after strong losses to bank stocks led to a sharp early slide. London's blue-chip index is currently 1.80 points (0.03%) higher to 5314.40.

In London, markets held steady until Wall Street trading began, before dropping suddenly at close of play, with the FTSE 100 down 43.5 points (0.81%) to 5,309.1.

The FTSE100 has opened slightly lower this morning as poor news for Ryanair and a higher oil price smacks the aviation sector. London's blue chip index is currently 5.10 points (0.1%) down to 5347.50.

The FTSE slumped slightly today, falling 9.70 points (0.18%) to 5352.60.

The FTSE100 has clawed back into positive territory this morning after more pain for US financials led to a poor start for the UK banking sector. London's blue-chip index is currently 0.60 points (0.01%) higher to 5362.90.

Shares in London lost much of the advances made in recent days, with the FTSE 100 falling 87.6 points (1.61%) to 5,362.3.

The majority of FTSE100 companies are struggling this morning with about 80% in the red so far. London's blue chip index is currently 44.90 points (0.82%) lower to 5405.