Dow Jones

Hitting that psychological 5,500 FTSE 100 barrier still seems to be just out of reach as the index is today making very slows gains.

In the UK the FTSE 100 index of leading shares has dropped 16.6 points to 5478.2 at its close a short while ago after briefing spiking and pushing through the 5500.

3i Group has seen some of the strongest gains this morning, pulling back the losses on the FTSE 100 index as a result of poor sales by high street retailer Boots. But it is the Asian markets which have today seen the best progress.

The FTSE 100 index has closed the day up on the back of a rising oil price and the prospect of problems with supply and distribution from US refineries if Hurricane Rita hits land.

Energy prices are driving trading in UK-listed stocks this morning as Centrica says it has doubled its profits and Premier Oil says its profits were increased by the continuining rise in oil prices.

The UK's benchmark stock index eventually closed the day just above its starting position, despite pressure from drinks firms Diageo and Scottish & Newcastle trading ex-dividend, as British American Tobacco received a boost against the threat of legal...

The FTSE 100 index of leading shares climbed 21.4 points to 5359.2 at its close a short while ago, paced by Scottish Power for a second day.

In the UK the FTSE 100 Index climbed 41.10 points to 5296.90 at its close a short while ago, led by Yell Group.

In the UK the FTSE 100 Index has climbed 34.60 points to 5290.40 led by Yell Group.

The FTSE 100 index profited 27.7 points, climbing 5255.8 at its close a short while ago and led by Rentokil Initial.