Retailers held the London market back today after the collapse of a potential bid for Woolworths and news of flat sales at Argos.

The FTSE 100 Index closed at the 5000 barrier for the first time since 2002 today as Dulux owner ICI added the gloss to a positive day for blue-chip stocks.

The FTSE 100 Index showed no signs of losing its recent strength today as takeover speculation drove it to a new two-and-a-half year high.

The London market staged a late rally today to overcome dismay at the worst Christmas sales data for more than 20 years.

Takeover talk in the media sector helped the FTSE 100 Index hold its own above the 4800 threshold today.

A positive performance by oil stocks helped to keep the London market in the black today.

The FTSE 100 Index overcame a slow day for corporate news and losses by mining stocks to creep into positive territory today.

Corus Group returned to profit for the first time in five years, with an operating profit before restructuring and impairment costs of £160 million in the first half to July 3 from a loss of £36m a year earlier.

London shares built on last night’s late move into positive territory after a quiet overnight session on Wall Street.

LONDON shares finally kicked into life yesterday as better-than-expected economic data in the United States rubbed off on investors.

London shares finally kicked into life today as better-than-expected economic data in the United States rubbed off on investors.

The FTSE 100 Index achieved its highest close for two months today after a rush of positive news provided investors with cause for cheer.

A subdued session on the London market came to a close today with blue-chip shares easing into the red.

The FTSE 100 Index ended another torrid week on the back foot today after financial stocks struggled in the face of more grim news.