FTSE 100

Global markets have jumped and oil has hit a 14-month low as geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine show signs of abating.

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Wealth managers report their clients are clamouring to take on more risk in portfolios, even as markets retreat from record highs.

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Tesco is coming under increasing pressure to slash its dividend in order to free-up cash to help it compete against low-cost rivals, with a leading shareholder speaking out over the weekend and analysts predicting a major cut to its payout.

Stock markets recovered from last week's bout of anxiety this morning as geopolitical concerns eased, with safe haven bond yields climbing and shares rallying.

UK and European equity markets have pulled back again this morning after two mega M&A deals fell through and geopolitical tensions increased.

Equity Income fund managers are yet to warm to the tobacco sector, despite a strong 2014 for stocks driven by M&A and their defensive qualities.

HSBC, the largest listed bank in the UK, has reported a sharp drop of 12% in its first half profits for 2014, as declines in emerging markets impacted the group.