FTSE 100

UK markets began the session strongly, with the blue chip index putting on more than 1% initially, ahead of key jobs data from the US.

Global stock markets rallied hard yesterday on news of co-ordinated action by major central banks to improve liquidity, but analysts are divided over whether it will lift markets further in December.

The FTSE 100 has moved 3% higher after the world's major central banks announced a move to boost liquidity within the financial system.

US markets have opened 3% higher as investors pin their hopes on the latest promise of eurozone action in the shape of tighter budgetary controls.

The FTSE 100 has reversed this morning's losses to rise over 1% in afternoon trading - buoyed by a surge on Wall Street.

A dire German bond auction rocked markets overnight, with Japan's Nikkei index hitting its lowest level since April 2009 as fears deepened over the eurozone crisis.

The FTSE 100 has seen its longest losing streak in eight years as investors continue to sell-off shares amid fears over the state of the eurozone.

3.10pm: US markets have shrugged off poor third-quarter GDP results with trading muted early in the session.

Investors should have been buying portfolios of gilts, treasuries and bunds, as well as commodities, while avoiding major indices, to maximise returns in 2011.

Asian stocks fell overnight alongside US indices after a congressional committee in the States charged with reducing the nation's deficit failed on Monday to agree on cuts.