S&P 500

In the US, trading volumes fell ahead of key job market data to be released later today.

World markets surged on Wednesday following an unexpected jump in the US manufacturing index and bullish economic figures from Asia.

US stocks slumped to their worst August in nine years, as investors retreated on fears for the US economy.

Which major index has been able to generate a return for investors since the beginning of the credit crunch?

GERMANY

Prudential's 1.5% rise in early trading, following better than expected first-half profits, helped the FTSE edge 0.3% higher to 5257.79 points.

European markets are in retreat this morning on fresh fears for global growth sparked by a gloomy outlook from the US Federal Reserve.

CONTRARIAN INVESTOR

U.S.

The FTSE 100 has opened flat following yesterday's climb as markets await European bank stress tests results.