FTSE 100 hits its highest level this year

The FTSE 100 closed at its highest level so far this year, as a range of different-sized firms lead strong trading today on the London indices. Pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca drove trading on the FTSE 100 – which today closed up 32.6 points or 0.8% to 4212.3 and its highest level so far this year – after analysts improved its position to 'buy'. AstraZeneca closed up 46p or 1.8% t0 £25.82. Countrywide Assured, the estate agents, has also seen confidence from the market after declaring the 2003 profit will exceed expectations. Countrywide closed up 13.5p or 11% to 135p. Car s...