The UK's public debt pile has climbed above £1trn for the first time ever, after the government borrowed almost £14bn last month.
Shares in Asia climbed overnight despite a stalemate in Europe as talks between Greek bondholders and politicians dragged on.
UK markets were firmer today, reaching new highs for 2012 as investors went to risk-on mode, despite the threat of a stand-off between Greece and its bondholders.
The FTSE 100 opened lower this morning despite recent positive economic data, as rumours of a Fitch downgrade of Italy weighed on markets.
With volatility set to dominate again this year, experts predict which sector or geographical region will surprise on the upside.
The FTSE 100 has extended losses as concerns over eurozone banks' need for more capital hit sentiment across the continent.
The FTSE 100 closed at its highest level for over two months last night as world markets soared on the first day of trading in 2012.