Stronger mining stocks and a better-than-expected update from Alliance & Leicester gave the FTSE 100 Index reason to break the 5500 barrier today.

Mining stocks dragged the FTSE 100 Index down today as record results from industry giant BHP Billiton failed to cheer investors.

UK brewery firm Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries stepped up the consolidation of the pub sector today by announcing a £13.7m (€20.2m) offer for a smaller operator.

A buoyant performance by telecoms stocks ensured the FTSE 100 Index held on to early gains today to wrap up a positive end to the week.

British brewer Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries today said an upbeat Easter had helped it boost half-year profits by 13.6%.

The FTSE 100 Index slumped to its lowest level in three months today as a profits warning from B&Q owner Kingfisher cast a chill over the retail sector.

Beer campaigners in England today urged shareholders in Lake District brewer Jennings to block an agreed £45.8m (€67.3m) takeover by Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries.

The FTSE 100 Index moved closer to its lowest point this year after a profits warning from B&Q owner Kingfisher further unnerved the retail sector today.

Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries today said it had agreed a £45.8m (€67.3m) takeover of Lake District brewer and pubs group Jennings Brothers.

The four-day winning streak of the FTSE 100 Index came to an end today following a weak performance by oil stocks and further losses on Wall Street.

UK investors look set for a calmer few days next week as only a handful of companies are due to unveil results or trading updates. However, with statements due from the likes of Mothercare and Ottakar’s there could still be plenty of interest for edgy shareholders in the retail sector.

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

A fall in the cost of oil to its lowest level in three months left the FTSE 100 Index on course for a positive end to the week today.

Speculation about a takeover battle for Sainsbury’s helped keep top flight shares above the key 4500 support level today.

London shares hovered near the break-even mark today as the latest inflation data pointed to an August hike in interest rates.

The London market ended a difficult week on a stable footing today after mining stocks rallied and Wall Street opened on the front foot.

Designer retailer Ted Baker reported a 19% rise in pre-tax profits today after seeing strong demand for its womenswear collection.