S&P 500

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.

The FTSE 100 has followed the lead of the US and opened lower this morning, as investors weigh up a gloomy economic update from Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke.

Asian markets were in decline today following the sharp 3% fall for US indices on Friday.

SPECIALIST MARKETS

Miners and banks are driving the FTSE upwards this morning, as London's leading shares continue to rebound on the back of Wall Street's stellar showing yesterday.