FTSE holds ground despite poor retail sales

The FTSE 100 index added 2.5 points or 0.5% to 4,803.3, thanks in part to gains for mining and broadcasting stocks. BHP Billiton, the world’s largest mining company, eventually gained 8.5p or 1.35% to 637p but rival Rio Tinto made the best gains to close up 44p or 2.79% to £16.20. BSkyB closed the day up 12p or 2.22% higher at 552.5p after analysts suggested the share price could yet cross £6 a share before hitting its target. Terrestrial rival ITV also closed up 3.25p or 2.85% to 117.25p. Corus Group, the steel manufacturer, also closed 1.25p or 2.4% up at 53.25p while Shell Trans...