Stock markets were expected to come under more pressure today after oil prices surged to a new record above $145 a barrel.

Investors piled into blue chip stocks today as hefty gains on Wall Street sent the London market surging 3% ahead.

The London market plunged close to the 6000 barrier today as concerns over the US economy sent shares tumbling on both sides of the Atlantic.

Strong gains by the mining sector and British Airways pushed the FTSE 100 Index through the 6200 mark today.

The London market was on the rise today after takeover interest in cigarette giant Gallaher lit up the tobacco sector.

The London market slumped into the red today weighed down by fears of an economic slowdown across the Atlantic.

The London market tumbled into the red today as interest rate concerns returned to spook investors.

The London market maintained its strong run today as investors continued to draw encouragement from recent earnings updates in the US.

Britain’s top shares dived into the red today as investors pondered the prospect of all-out war in the Middle East.

The FTSE 100 Index ended a torrid week in negative territory today as continued uncertainty swept through the Square Mile.

The firm behind London’s congestion charge scheme led the FTSE 100 Index to another four-year high today.

The FTSE 100 Index closed just short of a fresh four-year high today after a rally breathed new life into shares.

The FTSE 100 Index fell below the landmark 5300 barrier today as it chalked up its fifth consecutive session of losses.

The London market held its nerve today to secure its best finish since the summer of 2002.

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.

Insurers and drugs companies were among the winners today as businesses cheered President Bush’s success in the US presidential election.

Mining stocks limited the London market’s progress today after a surprise decision by China to raise interest rates.

Strong gains for the FTSE 100 Index were eroded late in the session today as investors talked down the chances of a takeover of Sainsbury’s.

Interest rates dominated the thinking of investors on both sides of the Atlantic today as London shares spent a second day in the red.

Relief over a softening in oil prices continued for a second day today as the London market consolidated its position above the 4400 support level.

The London market held its own above the key 4400 support level today despite a weak start on Wall Street.

Fears about rising oil prices resurfaced today following the hostage-taking crisis in Saudi Arabia.

Irish pension schemes founded in the 1970's and 1980's are becoming increasingly inadequate in the new millenium, delegates at a conference held in Dublin heard today.