The FTSE 100 Index slid more than 2% today as some miserable high street results did nothing to ease fears of a looming UK recession.

A volatile session for the FTSE 100 Index saw blue chips claw back the worst of their losses today as a bright start on Wall Street cheered investors.

The London market was on the back foot today as falling commodity prices put pressure on blue-chip stocks.

Much-needed gains for retailers Marks & Spencer and Next failed to halt a London market slide today as weaker mining stocks weighed on trading.

Housebuilding shares were the stand out performers today as the London market made strong gains amid further falls in oil prices.

Sharply lower oil prices helped the London market break a three-day losing streak today as the blue chip share index rallied 2.5%.

The FTSE 100 Index slipped into the red today after a raft of insurance firms endured a difficult session.

The FTSE 100 Index powered 1.7% ahead for a second day of strong gains after a dramatic U-turn on relief over Citigroup’s first quarter figures.

The FTSE 100 Index rose almost 2% today as investors returned to the market after the sell-off of the previous week.

London’s leading share index closed in positive territory today despite a rollercoaster session that saw blue chips swing between losses and gains.

The London market faced more pressure today amid a glut of poor economic news and record oil prices.

The London market closed in the red today after a volatile session amid concerns over the housing market and political tension between Israel and Iran.

The London market broke its three-day losing streak today as strong gains from oil and commodity stocks offset another dire session for banks and property firms.

Halifax Bank of Scotland led a poor session for financial stocks today as shares returned below the company’s rights issue price of 275p a share.