FTSE 100

The FTSE 100 fell below the 6,000 level in mid-morning trading as European markets absorbed Moody's downgrade of Portuguese debt to 'junk' status.

Nervous markets were further soothed yesterday as Greek MPs passed a law to implement strict austerity measures in a second round of voting.

US markets got off to a mixed start Monday as European nations continued to debate the future of Greece.

When the compulsory begging bowl went around the industry to compensate Keydata investors, the industry was rightly indignant.

The FTSE 100 was down more than 1.3% in early afternoon trading as weak data from China and ongoing fears for the US economy hit risk assets.

European markets rallied this morning on news the European Union will support troubled Greece if it introduces additional spending cuts and a privatisation programme.

Markets worldwide suffered on news the US is likely to put an end to its loose monetary policy.

Barclays Wealth has added two long-short funds into the intermediary market, linked to the performance of the FTSE 100.

US shares moved lower at opening, exacerbating falls in Europe, as yet more negative jobs data weighed on investors.

Woeful economic data in the US and a three notch downgrade of Greece's credit rating saw global markets tumble overnight.