The FTSE 100 reached its highest level since October 2008 this afternoon, leaping more than 75 points to reach 4695.92 points.
A string of strong earnings results as well as positive homes resales data in the US thrust the Dow into positive territory today.
In London, markets experienced strong, early growth, with banks and miners leading the pack. The FTSE 100 added 40.81 points (0.93%) to 4,429.56 by mid-morning.
The FTSE 100 was up in early trading Friday following an overnight rally in New York.
The Dow Jones slipped in early trading as worries increased over earnings and the state of the US economy.
The FTSE 100 dipped closer to the 4,000 mark this morning, with miners again dragging the index down.
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