Dow Jones

Trading is not getting any better on the London stock markets so far this week, as climbing oil prices could hit profit potential and some companies are still seeing ratings downgrades.

Stock markets didn't react too well when the London oil price hit another new high today, so most prices have struggled to hold any kind of position.

There appears to be little inspiration for traders on the London stock markets this morning, as the main index price opened virtually flat except for positive news for construction-related firms.

The FTSE markets are struggling to hold its position at the end of a fluctuating week, as Cable & Wireless and the company behind Demon internet services are suffering declines.

Strong sales figures from Tesco and its prospects for future expansion helped the FTSE across an important psychological barrier today as the market closed up above 4,600 points.

Tesco is likely to be the dominant stock on the FTSE 100 today, as its latest earnings figures indicate business is booming.

Having started the day on a sour note, Unilever struggled to pull back its losses from dropping sales, and kept the mood on the FTSE at a low ebb.

It's a bad start on the FTSE 100 this morning as Unilever has cut its full-year earnings forecast because of lower sales.

Improved profits for Corus and Kingfisher as well as a shock rise in retail sales helped to lift the spirits in the FTSE 100 today.

Abbey National shares closed down at their lowest level in seven months while HBOS bounced in the other direction, after announcing it no longer plans to bid for the bank.