Equity markets globally rose overnight, mimicking the trend seen across Europe yesterday, as investors cheered more positive data from the US.

Market participants are expecting interest rates in the UK to remain on hold until late 2014, according to Bank of England policymakers.

Stephen Schwarzman, the Blackstone chief executive, took home $213.5m in pay and dividends in 2011, after seeing his pay jump by a third.

Morningstar has unveiled its list of top performing funds for retail investors in 2011, a turbulent period for markets.

Broadcaster ITV reported a climb in revenues and underlying profit this morning, boosting shares and providing a lift for supporter Sanjeev Shah.

Technology giant Apple became part of an elite group of companies with an equity value above $500bn yesterday, after shares climbed 2% on talk the group is poised to launch a new iPad.

Henderson Global Investors is raising its dividend after reporting a 58% profits jump in 2011, even with the cost of the Gartmore integration impacting results.

The European Central Bank has suspended the use of Greek government bonds as collateral for institutions trying to access central bank loans, in the latest twist in the unfolding crisis.

Fidelity Worldwide Investment has expanded its bond fund range with the launch of a global high yield fund for managers Ian Spreadbury and Peter Khan.

The FTSE 100 was sharply lower by early afternoon following G20 leaders' warning additional aid will be withheld from the eurozone until its members pledge more support for stricken European countries.