London markets have opened relatively steady this morning despite losses on Wall Street and a strong sell-off in Asia. The FTSE100 is currently 9.50 points (0.17%) lower to 5747.40.
HBOS has lost the most ground following release of its trading statement which outlined a further £1bn first half write-down. The lender is 6.04% down to 299.50. Fellow lender Alliance & Leicester is also lower, dipping 4.03% to 309.75. Fuel reliant cruise liner operator Carnival is struggling as oil prices closed near $137 yesterday. It is 3.71% behind to 1659. The high crude costs continue to boost the oil majors, with Cairn Energy 3.01% higher to 3319. Oil and gas group BG is also higher, up 2.35% to 1263. Bus and rail operator FirstGroup is also having a good morning, sitting 2....
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