The London market closed in the red today dragged down by heavily-weighted oil stocks following a mixed session in the City.

Lloyds TSB shares rose 1% today as investors took a punt on renewed speculation about a bid for the UK’s fifth largest banking group.

The largest non-family shareholder of Matalan today said the discount clothing retailer was worth a lot more than founder John Hargreaves is planning to pay for it.

British discount clothing retailer Matalan continued to face difficult trading conditions today after it reported flat sales for the past nine weeks.

The London market continued its recent recovery today, despite a disappointing session for shares in aerospace and defence group BAE Systems.

The London market began the month in positive mood today despite heavy losses for BAE Systems after it emerged that the defence and aerospace giant will get less than expected for its 20% stake in Airbus.

Shares in BAE Systems tumbled today after it emerged the defence and aerospace giant will get less than expected for its 20% stake in Airbus.

The London market again tested highs not seen for nearly five years today as the FTSE 100 Index spent much of the day above the 5900 mark.

Strong gains by Vodafone and BT pushed the FTSE 100 Index above 5900 for the first time in nearly five years.

The chief executive of clothing retailer Matalan is to leave the company at the end of the year – with an extra 12 months' worth of pay – it was announced today.

Asda owner Wal-Mart was today reported to be lining up a £1bn (€1.5bn) takeover bid for discount clothing chain Matalan.

The sports agency which represents Wayne Rooney today created a wealth management division for use by its all-star client list.

The FTSE 100 Index completed another positive session today despite surrendering most of its earlier gains.

London’s leading shares maintained their upward momentum today as another psychologically important barrier moved into view.

British discount retailer Matalan remained unfazed about a slowdown on the high street today as shoppers continued to seek out bargains.