FTSE 100

UK markets opened lower Friday after a tough session in the US where stocks suffered sharp losses on the expectation of an imminent rate hike by the Federal Reserve.

UK shares edged lower this morning as concerns over the economic recovery in the US, and yesterday's move by the country to curb tax avoidance via M&A deals, continue to weigh on investor sentiment.

When a sector slumps in the stock market, investors look to analysts and forecasters for clarity. But the real insiders are the company management teams. Eugene O'Neill explains what mid-cap leaders have been telling the market.

The Big Question: Which small funds are your hidden gems?

Shares in the largest Scottish companies, notably financials, helped power the FTSE 100 higher this morning after the results of the Scottish referendum revealed the country had voted to remain part of the UK.

Shares in the UK climbed in early trading as investors awaited the result of the Scottish referendum on independence.

Shares in drinks giant SABMiller soared today after its failed attempts to buy Heineken prompted speculation the group itself could be taken over by Belgian rival Anheuser-Busch (AB) InBev.

M&G's Global Dividend fund has had a setback in performance this year as a number of stocks disappointed with dividend cuts, but manager Stuart Rhodes remains convinced the companies can increase payouts from here.

Are active funds still worth the effort?

Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) shares were among the top risers this morning after it confirmed it will move its operations to London should Scotland vote to become independent.