The FTSE 100 Index recouped earlier heavy losses today after another grim set of jobless figures in the United States fuelled hopes that policymakers will take further action to prop up the global economic recovery.

The FTSE 100 Index held its ground above the 5200 mark today to close at its highest level for more than a year.

The FTSE 100 Index struggled to make headway today in spite of a raft of broker upgrades and signs of life in the DIY sector.

Broadcaster ITV and Carphone Warehouse are to be evicted from the FTSE 100 Index after the latest quarterly reshuffle, it was confirmed today.

Optimism ahead of results from the banking sector and a surprise rise in house prices helped the FTSE 100 Index surge by nearly 3% today.

Barclays and Lloyds TSB shares rallied today amid speculation that directors at the two firms will announce higher dividend payments this week.

Tools and equipment hire group Speedy Hire said the outlook for its businesses remained positive after a strong period of trading since Christmas.

A WATERFORD couple are in line for a €6.5 million windfall after selling their tool and equipment hire business to a British company.

Tool hire firm Speedy Hire today unveiled a 16.1% hike in pre-tax profits and trumpeted its success in winning business in new markets such as oil and steel.

The top flight finished today comfortably in the black, but failed to make up much of the week’s losses.

The FTSE 100 Index has climbed 24.0 points during the first session of 2002 to reach 5241.4.