Global stock markets soared higher today as investors took heart from positive signs for the global economy.

Shares in Cable & Wireless Worldwide tumbled today after the telecoms group warned British government spending cuts would hurt full-year earnings growth.

The FTSE 100 Index lost ground today in a lacklustre end to the trading week but held firm above the 5700 mark breached in the previous session.

The London market slipped into the red today as investors absorbed details of European plans to provide debt-laden Greece with a financial safety net.