FTSE down despite US rise

Persimmon made impressive gains, up 47 points, or 3.88%, to £12.58, followed by Barratt, which added 25.5 points, or 2.77%, to 945.5p. Scottish & Newcastle gained on news of a takeover offer, up 13p, or 2.24%, to 593p, Hemmerson added 26 points, or 2.14%, to £12.40, and ITV shares were up 2.1p, or 2.02%, to 106.2p. Financial companies fared less well due to credit fears and Northern Rock was down 38.5 points, or 5.3%, to 687.5p. Experian shares fell 21p, or 3.92%, to 513.5p and Schroders followed with a loss of 46 points, or 3.77%, to £11.75. On Wall Street, shares rallied as investor...