FTSE 100

A string of strong earnings results as well as positive homes re-sale data in the US thrust the Dow into positive territory today.

The FTSE 100 retreated for the first time in seven days this morning as financial stocks fell out of favour.

The FTSE 100 extended its rally this morning, marking six straight sessions of gains.

On Wall Street, the Dow Jones followed gains in stock markets across Europe.

Cheery results for a trio of US bluechip giants kept the Dow Jones in with a shout of posting positive gains for a fifth straight day on Friday.

The FTSE 100 was up in early trading Friday following an overnight rally in New York.

The Dow Jones slipped in early trading on Thursday after posting some of the biggest gains of the year just 24 hours earlier.

A ratings upgrade from Citigroup helped Schroders to a healthy gain early on Thursday, but the FTSE remains largely unmoved following yesterday's impressive gains.

The FTSE 100 has opened on a positive note this morning after strong performance in the US yesterday.

In London, Friends Provident shares surged this morning as Resolution expressed interest in buying the company.