FTSE 100

The Dow Jones has opened more than 1.2% higher in early trading as investors reacted positively to signs Greece could get help from the European Union.

The FTSE recovered some of last week's losses in early trading, rising 37.28 points (0.7%) to 5,098.20 with gains from miners and banks.

The FTSE 100 opened slightly down, dipping 0.02% or 0.84 points to 5,246 in early trading, as BP posted worse then expected fourth quarter results.

The FTSE was marginally down by 0.04% to 5186.60, despite strong gains by utilities in early trading.

At the start of 2009 markets were in freefall, there were concerns about financial and economic meltdown and the last place you wanted exposure to was smaller companies with their higher risk and greater exposure to the domestic economy.

The FTSE climbed 0.72% in early trading to 5255.18 bolstered by strong performances from big names.

The FTSE fell in early trading, dragged down by negative market sentiment towards resources firms.

The FTSE 100 opened lower, down 39.78 points or 0.76% to 5220 over worries about global growth following announcements in China and the US.

Fund managers have backed Cadbury's decision to accept Kraft's new increased bid for the confectioner.

Cadbury shares have bucked a poor start to FTSE 100 trading this morning, climbing over 3% on news it has agreed a £11.5bn takeover bid by Kraft.