FTSE 100

Strong earnings potential for money managers Schroders and Amvescap lifted the FTSE 100 back over the 4400 mark.

Lower than anticipated income for mining giant BHP Billiton has forced the FTSE 100 down this morning, as there has been little to lift the mood.

Record oil prices in yesterday's trading is impacting the UK stock markets again today, even though Schroders has boosted the market with more than double first-half profits.

Energy stocks still seemed to be the dominant factor of the FTSE 100 index this afternoon, along with tech stocks, as the tropical storm continued off Mexico and Centrica announced a new purchase.

This morning's trading is again being influenced by oil stocks. This time, however, it is largely as a result of dividend payouts and a storm approaching the Gulf of Mexico.

The FTSE 100 index closed up 5.3 points today at 4,413.4 after UK stocks rose paced by Barclays and Reed Elsevier Group.

Big news in the UK markets this morning is the suggestion HBOS is now considering a takeover bid for Abbey group, but markets are marginally down on the prospect of Al Qaeda terrorist attacks.

Trading on the London Stock Exchange was today largely influenced by activities in Switzerland, as one Swiss firm boosted the drugs industry and a Swiss insurer knocked domestic confidence.

Activity on London main indices is not looking too healthy this morning after crude oil futures prices dropped and Northern Rock's report was less than favourable.

The FTSE 100 index has so far gained almost 2 points to 4,362 despite falls by BT and J.D. Wetherspoon.