FTSE 100

Global equity markets have posted sharp gains as investors shrug off a lack of action from the European Central Bank and look to developments in Spain and monetary policy moves elsewhere.

UK stock markets are rising this morning after the two-day bank holiday, following gains in Asia and the US, and as hopes grow a further round of quantitative easing will be launched.

DIAMOND JUBILEE

Man Group looks set to drop out of the FTSE 100 at the next review in June, to be replaced by engineering group Babcock.

Markets in Europe were selling-off across the board today as Spain's banking crisis deepens.

US stocks saw their first weekly gain since April as Greek election polls revealed support for pro-bailout parties and data showed the American housing market is stabilizing.

Talk of plans to rescue the eurozone's banking system, alongside hopes Greece can remain in the single currency, lifted shares in early trading today.

Markets across Europe set new lows for 2012 yesterday after countries were told by Brussels to prepare contingency plans for a Greek exit.

Reports that China is eyeing a fresh round of stimulus to boost growth in the country helped lift European stocks out of the doldrums Monday.

SMALL CAPS