markets

The FSA has published its RDR feedback statement. Will distinguishing between independent and sales advice, setting minimum qualifications for IFAs and introducing a standard for independent advice ‘reform the investment market' and increase confidence...

Early gains for a handful of financial stocks has driven the FTSE 100 higher in early trading this morning - up 28.5 points, or 0.67% to 4,277.66.

Schroders UK equity head Richard Buxton says yesterday's dual economic boost could prove to be the "significant turning point" needed for a stock market revival.

The FTSE100 plunged under the 5,000 barrier for the first time since June 2005 this afternoon while the US market fell on more bad news from AIG.

The FTSE100 has plunged more than 3.6% this morning after US investment bank Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy overnight.

Shares in London rallied after a sell off in early trading, with the FTSE 100 closing up 57.4 points (1.05%) to 5528.10.

Net retail sales for June were only £140m compared to £748m in June 2008, with the biggest net inflow into the ‘other' category, driven by absolute return funds.

The FTSE has had a much better day today, rising 1.17%, or 67.2, to reach an index value of 5790.50 following yesterday's slump of 104.

The popularity of asset allocation funds, such as those in the Cautious, Balanced and Active Managed sectors, rose significantly last year during turbulent times for the markets, S&P says.

Global markets have witnessed significant turbulence over the weekend as investors raised concerns the full effects of the US housing downturn and sub-prime crisis have yet to be felt.