FTSE flat as builders and retailers decline

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The FTSE100 has opened steady this morning despite sharp losses to homebuilders and retailers, the index is currently 3.90 points (0.07%) higher to 5831.20.

The rising crude prices and a report from Russian giant Gazprom which suggested oil could hit $250 a barrel has led to sharp gains for the sector. BP is the best of the bunch, up 2.19% to 595.75; while Royal Dutch Shell (A) is 2.05% ahead to 2137. Engineering solutions provider AMEC is also doing well, 1.96% higher to 912. Homebuilder Persimmon is being bulldozed for the second straight day after Merrill Lynch lowered its rating. It is 8.58% down to 354.25 so far. Next is also being pounded after Seymour Pierce lowered its rating. The retailer is 7.11% lower to 1019. Also sharply lower ...

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