FTSE opens 2009 on a brighter note

The FTSE 100 had suffered its worst year ever in 2008, losing more than 30% of its value in the 12 months. The index closed on 31 December at 4,434, 31% lower than its start in January of 6456.9. Today, mining shares helped push up the index from opening, with Vedanta Resources the highest climber up by 5.72% to 646.50. Anglo American and Randgold Resources, the best performing share in 2008, also started well and Lonmin was another miner benefiting early, rising 4.77%. Daily Mail and General Trust Aerospace and defence systems manufacturer Meggitt also gained, as did cruise company Carni...