Its central bank brought the limits in during 2008 to prevent financial groups from changing roubles for dollars during managed devaluation of the currency during the economic downturn, Reuters reports.

Sergei Romanchuk, chief dealer at Metallinvestbank, commented: "These operations with the central bank were not in demand for quite a long time. [The limits] were introduced during the crisis and now it's all in the past."

Forex operations may rise as a result of the softening rules, with currency trading groups able to buy and sell higher volumes of foreign money and potentially cash in on a growing market for the activities.

Russia's central bank will now be able to take short positions on the rouble and could potentially implement novel currency trading strategies in an effort to capitalise of their new-found freedom.

On Wednesday it was revealed yuan trading is to be launched by the end of the year.

Posted by Adam Howard

Better risk appetite among Forex specialists prompted the renewed interest from financial groups in the region, as the single European currency appreciated to $1.2723 on the electronic trading platform EBS, Reuters reports.

Demand from a Swiss bank was said to have been among the main drivers for gains in the money, which had plummeted earlier in the week on renewed stock broker uncertainty over the robustness of financials in the region.

It rose across the board in currency trading, adding value against Japan's currency to trade at 112.69 yen, while simultaneously gaining versus the pound to hit a value of 83.84 pence.

This is the euro's highest value since late June this year and suggests the shake-up seen earlier in the week does not have serious long-term implications for the trans-national money.

Better risk appetite also helped the Australian dollar yesterday, as it added more than one per cent against the dollar and almost two per cent on the yen.

Posted by Adam Howard

The precious metal was on track for its first weekly decline in over a month as it sank to $1,247 (£809.37) an ounce, wiping $1.27 off its value a little before 07:00 BST, Reuters reports.

In futures trading the commodity also fell, dropping $2.10 to reach $1,248.8 an ounce in delivery for December.

Commodities trading has been affected this week by plummeting futures in China amid speculation the government is to intervene on long positions on rubber.

But gold had been holding its position as stock brokers remained edgy about the strength of European banking institutions.

Darren Heathcote, head of trading at Investec Australia in Sydney, observed: "The trend still remains for a stronger gold and it probably looks to test $1,275," indicating today's sinking may be a temporary blip in an otherwise healthy performance.

Posted by Gareth Mann

Enbridge Inc closed a major supply link between Canada and the US Midwest, its largest line, responsible for pumping 670,000 barrels a day.

A leak at around midday local time was discovered in the state of Illinois precipitating a spike in commodity trading, with crude oil for delivery in October jumping by almost one per cent to reach $74.97 a barrel, before settling back to $74.79 during evening trading.

The development may be considered positive by some stock brokers who have seen soft pricing in recent times due to record levels of reserves in the US.

Additionally, fears of a sluggish economic recovery in the world’s largest consumer of the fuel meant futures trading on the fossil fuel was muted, as experts worried about levels of long-term demand.

Posted by Gareth Mann

Ending the day's session up on Wednesday, stock brokers saw the indices climb even higher during trading on Thursday after it was revealed US unemployment claims were lower than expected last week, Reuters reports.

The FTSEEuroFirst 300 Index of top shares was up 0.9 per cent at 13:36 BST, reaching 1,081.12 points, slightly below the session high of 1,081.70, which was the best share trading the region has seen since April this year.

US trade deficit also reduced by more than analysts had predicted, further stoking share broker confidence and fuelling hopes the world's biggest economy may yet accelerate its fiscal recovery.

Exports were at their highest since August 2008, helping to plug the trade shortfall, while imports retreated and injected new confidence into commercial experts.

In the UK the FTSE 100 gained on bullish sentiment relating to the strength of European financial institutions.

Posted by Adam Howard 

Commodities trading on energy bonds has appreciated by 4.63 per cent since July, the best performance of any Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Broad Market Corporate Index, Bloomberg reports.

The second-best industry is insurers' debt, with returns of four per cent and corporate securities, which is offering investors cash-back at 3.11 per cent.

BP's report into the explosion of its oil rig in April this year came on the same day (September 8th) Fitch Ratings lifting the firm's credit grade by three steps, which might come as welcome news to other commodities traders affected by the slump in energy stocks after the spill.

Shares were valued higher by 4.75 pence during trading around 14:00 BST, bringing the price to 416.90 pence, as the energy corporation continues to claw back losses of around 40 per cent made during the crisis.

Posted by Adam Howard 

The pound was down 0.5 per cent against the dollar around 13:00 BST, climbing above the day's low of $1.5376 to settle at $1.5396, Reuters reports.

Unexpected expansion of the country's trade deficit depressed the national currency, as it ballooned to a record high of £8.667 billion in July, up from £7.532 billion the previous month.

Henrik Gullberg, currency analyst at Deutsche Bank, noted the Bank of England decided to maintain the base rate at 0.5 per cent, commenting: "It came in conjunction with the weak trade data and points to a turnaround to UK economic data, reminding the market that the economy may weaken."

Earlier in the day the Australian dollar floated to a four-week high against its US counterpart thanks to good employment data, bringing it value to $0.9237 and gaining 0.5 per cent on the day.

Posted by Adam Howard

The FTSE 100 Index surged 0.9 percent - or 47 points - to 5,476.74 around 12:00 BST, recovering from a session low of 5,412.48, Reuters reports.

Stock brokers bought up cyclical shares like financial groups and commodities, while positive comments on European economic recovery helped maintain risk-taking sentiment.

Speaking of the Bank's decision to keep interest rates down, Mike Lenhoff, chief strategist at Brewin Dolphin, stated: Both the US Federal Reserve and the BoE would not be prepared to tolerate any loss of momentum in their respective economies."

A stronger performance in Asian stock markets might also have helped trader confidence, as the Nikkei 225 added 0.8 per cent during Thursday's session.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

The mining group's stock value fell by 0.50 per cent on the London Stock Exchange, bringing the price of one unit to 859 pence as of 13:00 BST.

Resulting from ENRC's acquisition of a majority interest in Camrose Resources, the group accuses FQM of making statements in an attempt to discredit the company, while attempting to interfere with its rights to progress with the new venture.

Chief executive officer Felix J Vulis claims the commodities enterprise undertook "due diligence processes" before buying Camrose Resources, which involved a subsidiary company purchasing a majority stake in the mining company.

Proactive Investors reveals the recently-bought firm has an indirect 70 per cent interest in a "controversial" project in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Spot gold added $2.25 to $1,256.75 (£812.27) an ounce by 06:35 BST, up from a lull that dragged the price as low as $1,252.80 an ounce amid softening demand, Reuters reports.

Despite poor commodities futures trading in China, stock brokers described sentiment as "bullish", with bullion "still on track to test new heights", according to Dick Poon, manager at Heraeus in Hong Kong.

Demand in Asian economies was relatively good due to factors such as the festive season in India, which lasts from August to November and increases buyers' interest in the precious metal.

Earlier in the week, an investigation by the Wall Street Journal into the strength of European banking groups led gold to a lifetime high in commodities trading, as stock brokers shunned risky financial stocks.

The report suggested the results of stress tests were misleading and accused banks of withholding damaging information to present a more positive picture.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Currency brokers may be testing the resolve of the Japanese authorities to take action to curb the ongoing rise of the yen, which so far has shown little sign of abating, despite measures to try to restrict its appreciation.

During today's session the dollar held firm at 83.95 yen, having recovered slightly from Wednesday's depths of 83.34 yen, Reuters reports.

For Forex trading strategies to be significantly revised, the currencies need to break their 21-day moving average of 84.77, which will reverse the downtrend begun in May, when the US money was worth around 95 of its Japanese equivalent.

Rising against the greenback yesterday, yen also soared close to a nine-year peak against the single European currency on fresh fears over the strength of banking institutions in the region.

Posted by Adam Howard 

In Japan, the Nikkei 225 ended trading 0.8 per cent up, though this follows significant falls for the index that made it the worst performing in the region this year.

The MSCI Asia Pacific Index added 0.9 percent to 121.42 points by mid afternoon in Tokyo, with good economic data emerging from Australia helping to support stock broker risk appetite.

South Korea's won also performed well, gaining 0.4 per cent on the US dollar on the back of steadily improving exports that many expect will push the economy to new heights, Bloomberg reports.

Bernard Yeung, Hong Kong-based head of foreign-exchange trading at National Australia Bank, observed: "The trend is resuming for Korean won appreciation because of its economic fundamentals."

Of 14 economists surveyed by the publication, only four predicted the result, indicating currency trading in the region is the subject of ongoing debate.

Posted by Adam Howard

Rubber prices were among the worst fallers after it was revealed officials are examining large positions on futures in the commodity, sparking fears traders may have to sell and triggering the biggest fall in three weeks.

Tommy Xiao, analyst at Shanghai JC Intelligence, told Bloomberg: "The market was in turmoil on rumours that a brokerage based in Zhejiang province is under investigation by the securities regulator because of alleged manipulation of the natural rubber market."

In futures trading rubber for delivery in January dipped by up to 4.6 per cent, while the commodity in Tokyo lost ground, slumping to 290.9 yen per kilogram (£2,252 a tonne) due to the knock-on effect in nearby stock markets.

Falling commodities trading pared gains in oil stocks as well, with the cost of a barrel remaining below $75 (£48.66) following the bad new emerging from the Chinese indices.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Rising equities also provided good news for stock brokers in the country, with Asian share trading higher on the back of the positive data.

Reaching a peak of $0.9224, it was the Australian dollar's best performance since May, before softening slightly to $0.9213, a rise of 0.3 per cent on the day's trading.

Bloomberg reveals more jobs were created in the nation's economy for the eleventh time in 12 months, encouraging stock broker confidence in a sustained recovery in Asia.

Commenting on the employment data Stephen Halmarick, head of investment markets research at Colonial First State Global Asset Management in Sydney, stated: "The economy continues to do extraordinarily well compared to most other countries."

Ongoing strong performance in Australian markets and those in Asia may lift share trading in other parts of the world and translate to better confidence among stock brokers.

Posted by Adam Howard 

By lunchtime the pound was up 0.64 percent against the dollar to trade at $1.5459, bouncing back from a dip to $1.5296 struck on Tuesday, Reuters reports.

Sterling also performed better against the single European currency, gaining 0.4 per cent on the euro as Forex brokers recovered confidence following the blow earlier in the week from a Wall Street Journal investigation questioning the strength of financial groups in the region.

The sale by Vodafone of a minority stake in China Mobile also helped firm up its position, as Forex brokers had to pull back from short positions on the pound.

Commenting on the move, chief executive Vittorio Colao said it was in line with the communications company's long term strategy, suggesting it would deliver value for shareholders and help reduce company debt.

Posted by Adam Howard 

Forex brokers manifested this mood today by pushing the euro down to an all-time low against the Swiss franc, while helping the yen higher to hit a 15-year peak against the dollar, Reuters reports.

Having dropped following a fresh bout of fears surrounding the strength of the global recovery, European stock markets were higher again this morning (September 8th), indicating the fast-changing sentiment that has dogged share trading in recent months.

Those in currency trading seeking a safe haven bought up the Japanese currency, potentially in an effort to test the government's resolve to curb the ongoing strength of the money on Forex markets.

Manuel Oliveri, currency strategist at UBS in Zurich, remarked: "There's been an intensification in verbal rhetoric from Japan but I don't think they will intervene here. The serious intervention risk comes in below 80 yen."

Posted by Adam Howard 

Shares in the pharmaceuticals group appreciated 0.56 per cent, adding seven pence to trade at 1,267 pence as of 15:00 BST.

The change indicates stock brokers responded warmly to the appointment, which will see the current boss Julian Heslop step down from the role he has held for the past five years.

Andrew Witty, chief executive officer at the business commented: "Our objective is to deliver long-term value to shareholders and ... Simon's appointment as CFO reflects the need for GSK to operate with both creativity and continued financial discipline."

Currently managing director and partner of Goldman Sachs, Mr Dingemans has more than 25 years experience in investment banking and has worked closely with his new company for several years.  

Stocks in the energy giant have appreciated by 1.66 per cent, adding 6.75 pence to the value of shares to bring the price to 413.55 pence at a little before 15:00 BST.

The investigation claimed "no single factor caused the ... tragedy", citing a "sequence of failures" by multiple individuals as the reason behind the disaster in the Gulf of Mexico which led to millions of barrels worth of crude oil leaking into the ocean off Florida, causing damage to marine and shore life in the region.

Incoming chief executive for the group Bob Dudley said: "We have said from the beginning that the explosion on the Deepwater Horizon was a shared responsibility among many entities."

And with the cap holding, it seems likely the fossil fuel company will continue to perform adequately in commodities trading markets.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

The net value is expected to be around £4.3 billion before tax and charges, with 70 per cent of proceeds returned to share holders in the form of a buyback and the remainder utilised to reduce the group's debt.

Chief executive Vittorio Colao commented: "Today's transaction achieves a near doubling of Vodafone's original investment in China Mobile and combines our stated portfolio strategy with ongoing cooperation with China's leading telecommunications company."

Closing at 159.90 pence yesterday, today's share trading for a single unit is 159.80 pence, indicating stock brokers do not feel strongly that the move is a positive one for the business.

Famous for mobile phones, the enterprise is selling its entire stake of 642,868,587shares to its Asian counterpart.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

The Shanghai Composite Index finished lower at 2,695.3 points, having failed to breach key resistance levels of 2,700, Reuters reports.

Stock market analysts advised this is acting as a strong marker of progress, which the index has failed to break several times over the past four weeks of trading.

Falling stock markets and weakness in higher-risk currencies dragged share trading down yesterday, as European and US indices were struck by sudden fears over the strength of banking systems.

Yesterday the FTSE closed 0.6 per cent lower at 5,407.82 points, cutting short a seven-day winning streak during which it appreciated by 6.5 per cent on the strength of financial groups and energy stocks.

And China's stock market could not escape the depressed mood, with companies such as Merchant Bank weighing heavily on stock markets in the country.

Posted by Adam Howard 

Trading was suspended in its shares on Monday (September 6th) amid claims the firm was on the brink of administration after failing to secure the necessary funding to rescue Connaught from its financial difficulties.

Additionally, nearly 10,000 British jobs are now at risk if the property and environmental services giant does collapse.

The company needed to secure some £220 million in order to clear its debts.

A Connaught representative said: "The board is saddened to announce that it is in the process of appointing partners from KPMG as administrators of Connaught."

As well as providing property management services for the public sector, the company also focuses on producing affordable housing projects and is involved in waste management, cleaning and forestry services.

Connaughtss shares lost more than 90 per cent of their value since June, closing at 16.7 pence on Monday.

Posted by Gareth Mann

The pound fell against the dollar in response to pressures on the euro due to concerns about the economic recovery of European banks, as well as financial difficulties in the UK housing sector.

Stephen Gallo, head of market analysis at Schneider Foreign Exchange, explained to Reuters: "Euro zone CDS spreads are widening and the euro is underperforming. But anything linked to the dollar is not faring well in this defensive environment."

Social housing maintenance firm Connaught suspended trading in its shares yesterday (September 7th) after concluding it would be unlikely to secure the £220 million funding necessary to clear its debts, further weighing on the value of the British pound.

This comes after Forex markets yesterday saw a choppy performance from the euro, as it shrank back from the three-week peak against the dollar experienced earlier in the week.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

With HSBC announcing its chairman is to go into government and Barclays appointing US investment banker Bob Diamond as chief executive, changes are being made at the top of British banking.

Mr Diamond missed out on the job six years ago when John Varley took the helmand and some experts believe his appointment to the post could revolutionise the way banking is conducted in the UK.

Analysts have also suggested he may move the bank's domicile or move out with the investment bank should Barclays be forced by the Independent Commission on Banking to split up in order to separate riskier investment banking from retail lending.

And UK share trading might be affected if stock brokers approve, or otherwise, of the new executives to be hired, with fresh faces potentially seeking to make their mark through shake-ups of two of Britain's largest financiL groups.

Posted by Adam Howard

Edging towards the two-month high of $1,259.80 an ounce seen yesterday, the precious metal added $3.35 by 02:44
BST, still buoyant on the strength of stock broker confidence crashes on Tuesday, Reuters reveals.

In futures trading the commodity moved less, with gold for December delivery hovering around $1,258.40 an ounce, having soared to a peak of $1,261.60 yesterday.

A report from the Wall Street Journal claimed exposure to government debt was downplayed by European banks during stress tests earlier in the year, stoking fears financial groups in the region were more fragile than previously thought.

The publication claimed its findings "undermined" reassurances about the soundness of the institutions in question, which led in turn to a rapid fall of the euro against most other currencies.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Officials at the Bank of Japan (BoJ) have made it clear they will take appropriate measures to bring the country's currency back in line with others and tame its bullish Forex performance, which continues to outpace rival monies and threaten exporters in the region.

However, it is unclear what course the currency trading experts intend to take, as executives at the financial institution did not go into details, fuelling speculation of limited action being planned.

The strength of the yen in Forex trading hit the Nikkei 225 during trading today (September 8th), as it plummeted by two per cent, with exporters of retail products and vehicle manufacturers among the worst hit, Reuters reported.

Frederic Neumann, co-head of Asian economics at HSBC in Hong Kong, noted the BoJ has a "tricky political road" to negotiate in terms of action taken over currency appreciation. 

Sinking to $1.2680 in early Asian currency trading, the single European currency had been on a three-week high of $1.2920 the day before, but was hit by an investigation from the Wall Street Journal recalling the poor performance of the region's banks under stress tests earlier in the year, reveals Reuters.

The report, entitled Europe's Bank Stress Tests Minimized Debt Risk, argued: "An examination of the banks' disclosures indicates that some banks didn't provide as comprehensive a picture of their government-debt holdings as regulators claimed."

And it caused the euro to retreat by 0.6 per cent on Forex markets yesterday, with financial groups also losing ground on stock markets around the world.

During trading today the currency has fallen two per cent against the yen, while losing 1.6 per cent against the franc.

Posted by Adam Howard 

High fallers include chip-tester maker Advantest, which sank lower by 4.2 per cent and Honda Motor, also deflating to close 2.9 per cent down, Reuters reports.

MSCI's broader index of Asian shares outside Japan retreated 0.4 per cent as the yen traded close to a 15-year high against the dollar, resisting efforts to control its rise on Forex markets.

Masayoshi Okamoto, head of dealing at Jujiya Securities, observed: "The dollar falling below 84 yen has completely neutralised any positive impetus from the jump in machinery orders."

The stock market expert is backed up by weak performances from exporters of electronic equipment and the retail trade, which were among the worst depressive influences on the Nikkei.

Share trading in the West was also lacklustre yesterday, as financial groups came undone following fresh fears surrounding the strength of European banking institutions.

Posted by Adam Howard 

The move, which unites two companies established by Dan Duncan, a Texan oil billionaire who died in March this year, will see the Holdings arms become a subsidiary of Enterprise Products Partners.

Share trading on the energy group declined slightly on news of the merger, dropping 25 cents to trade at $38.20 per unit.

Michael A Creel, president and chief executive officer of Enterprise Products' general partner, stated: "We are pleased to announce our agreement to combine these two partnerships, which should reduce [the firm's] long-term cost of capital and simplify our organisational structure."

If the move does indeed improve profitability for the US business share trading may recover, but so far the response of stock brokers has been lacklustre.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Ten-year note yields were pushed down from their highest level in almost four weeks as financial groups and currencies in the eurozone sunk lower on trading markets, Bloomberg reveals.

A report from the Wall Street Journal recalling poor results of stress tests on European banks earlier in the year depressed stock broker risk appetite and stoked fears of the stability of economic recovery and institutions on the continent.

BGCantor Market Data showed the yield on the ten-year note declined six basis points - or 0.06 percentage points - to 2.64 per cent in early morning trading, while the 2.625 per cent security maturing in August 2020 appreciated by $5 (£3.27) per $1,000 face amount.

The news continues almost two months of bad performance in global markets, as a string of negative economic data has been tempered with limited good news since July.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

And other stock futures indices also declined, with Dow Jones Industrial Average shedding 0.5 percent to 10,385 points, while Nasdaq-100 Index futures retreated 0.4 per cent to stand at 1,860.

Financial groups weighed heavily on share trading, as Bank of America and Citicorp both retreated by more than one per cent following peers' poor performance on European markets earlier in the day.

A report by the Wall Street Journal recalling poor outcomes of stress tests on the continent in recent months sparked stock broker retreats from risky positions and led to the markets' downturn, also wiping 0.6 per cent off the value of the single European currency.

Posted by Adam Howard 

The UK's largest hotel and restaurant group, its total sales were up 14 per cent, but this may not have been enough to stop stock brokers' scepticism about its performance, as stock fell by 0.86 per cent - or 13 points - during share trading before 14:00 BST.

Like-for-like sales were up 7.9 per cent compared with the same period in 2009 and cutbacks in commercial travel and holiday budgets might be to blame for the steady, yet not exceptional rise in revenue.

Chief executive Alan Parker commented: "Our balance sheet is strong and remains underpinned by a significant freehold asset base," adding progress would be made in the "age of austerity" by a "relentless focus" on meeting the needs of customers.

With a day's high of 1,536 pence per share, the group is currently trading at 1,505 pence and so might need stronger data to convince stock brokers.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Bloomberg claims the last eight weeks heralded "two months bankers would like to forget", maintaining a record-breaking run will be needed before the end of the month to avoid plunging back to levels not seen since the depths of the recession.

The publication reveals in order for the three-month period to equal that seen at the same time last year, the volume of share trading seen on a daily basis would have to break records to the number sold on any day during the previous three years, suggesting stock brokers may be disappointed with progress made as the month draws to a close.

Jeff Harte, Chicago-based analyst at Sandler O'Neill and Partners, remarked: "Activity levels in the last three weeks of September should be a lot better than July and August, but it would have to almost be off-the-charts good to save the third quarter."

Standard & Poor's 500 Index this morning ended a winning streak by falling 0.6 per cent, which could further dampen stock brokers' mood.

Posted by Adam Howard 

A $2.2 billion (£1.43 billion) deal to vend the Nan Shan Life unit to China Strategic and partner Primus Financial was rejected by regulators in the country on the basis the buyers did not have the necessary experience and might have difficulty raising the relevant funds, reports Reuters.

In a statement, the company commented: "AIG has indicated its current view that it would be in the best interests of the parties to terminate the share purchase agreement."

And share trading for the US behemoth might suffer accordingly, after stocks were valued at $36.70 at market's end on Friday and the Dow Jones was closed yesterday due to Labor Day.

An earlier attempt to sell its American International Assurance unit for $35.5 billion to Prudential fell through in May, suggesting the group might have to change its tactic in order to raise the funds required to pay back loans from the US government.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

This is according to Reuters, which claims foreign currency traders felt the revelation was not "hawkish" enough, pushing the Australian dollar lower by 20 pips - or 0.4 per cent - to reach $0.9145.

RBA reported it is to maintain interest rates where they are, which meets observer expectations and means inflation should be maintained close to the bank's target.

The base line is currently set at 4.5 per cent and Ayako Sera, market strategist at Sumitomo Trust Bank, remarked: "For the Aussie dollar to rise beyond $0.92, the global economy will need to gather more strength."

In political news, two key independent lawmakers have given their support to prime minister Julia Gillard and the Labor party, giving her the majority she needs to form a government, which also caused the dollar to slacken.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Reuters reveals US crude for October slid 1.25 per cent to reach $73.67 (£47.81) and was down 91 cents to sell for $73.69 a barrel by 07:15 BST.

However, this may not be seen as a negative by all, as Ken Hasegawa, commodity derivatives manager at brokerage Newedge in Japan, comments: "Crude oil to some extent will have influence from financial markets, but it is completely stuck in a range from $70 to $80. It's very comfortable for everyone."

Gains in the dollar also reduce demand for the fuel in commodities trading as non-US buyers find prices comparatively expensive, slowing uptake of energy supplies and potentially stoking stock broker fears of slack interest in the coming months.

Yesterday the US currency slid to a three-week low against the euro, but this latter has today been hit by Forex trader fears over the strength of European banks, prompting a 0.6 per cent fall in value.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Falling 0.6 per cent to settle at $1.2797, on Monday the single European currency had surged as high as $1.2920, but today a Wall Street Journal report on the strength of banks on the continent rekindled fears of instability in the sector, leading to the currency's sharp decline, Reuters reports.

Tsutomu Soma, senior manager of the foreign securities department at Okasan Securities, commented: "Concerns about eurozone banks have been growing again, hitting investor sentiment that had improved a little after better-than-expected US jobs data last week."

Recently it has been strong European data that supported stock markets and currencies in the area, with better-than-expected performance from German banks providing strong support to the euro and dragging sterling higher in its wake.

But today's report seems to have reminded Forex brokers of questions dogging some financial groups in Europe, with hard consequences for the region's currency.

Posted by Alex Sawyer  

But the country's principle index held above its 25-day moving average, Reuters reports, with stock brokers potentially relieved it did not manage to break this key resistance level.

Shedding 75.32 points to close at 9,226 points, the level that would spark concern is 9,210 and the publication reveals this is "closely watched" in the Asian nation.

A broader stock market index, the Topix lost 0.5 per cent to end at 834.92, indicating profit-taking occurred across the board as traders cashed in on four sessions' higher closing.

Despite Bank of Japan efforts, the yen has slowed little in its inexorable rise, a factor that might have inspired brokers to take returns early rather than waiting to see how shares progress later in the week.

Posted by Adam Howard 

The money it could potentially raise will be used to fund expansion of the state oil company's activities, following the recent discovery of oil reserves off the coast of the country's second-largest city Rio de Janeiro.

Stock broker reactions were cautiously positive on the commodities company this morning, with shares standing at 67460 points on the Standard and Poor's Futures Index, up 0.63 per cent, having previously reached a high of 67720 points.

Trading on the NASDAQ was more enthusiastic, as the energy giant added 1.53 per cent to trade higher at 2233,75, close to the day's high of 2235,57 points.

Immediately after the news was announced, Petrobras added four per cent to its value, but stock brokers have pulled back from this positive position as the markets open for a new week's trading.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Poor global trading conditions were blamed for the business' poor performance, with first-half profits potentially falling by around 25 per cent.

And stock brokers reacted badly to the news, sending shares in the group significantly down, before rallying slightly to close lower by 4.7 per cent with 7,673,501 traded over the course of the day.

The BBC reports analysts had forecast the firm's profits to be around 11 per cent, which might be one reason the shock was felt so keenly on the stock market.

It was revealed profit for the first six months of the year had fallen sharply, while the news full-year profit would only match - rather than exceed - that of 2009 was greeted with distaste, pushing shares down to a 15-month low on the Sydney-based index.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

The UK currency fell to a six-week low against its European counterpart, losing 0.3 per cent and bringing the value of the euro to 83.70 pence after rallying to 83.80 pence, Reuters reports.

High selling at a UK clearing bank weighed on sterling and fears of weakening economic recovery in the country conspired to depress its performance on Forex charts.

One expert warned of possible reasons behind the financial group's move, saying: "The talk is of a large UK clearer having an axe to grind on EUR/GBP and it's about a billion euros."

A good US employment report late last week pushed the pound higher on improved risk-taking sentiment, but nonetheless sterling reversed gains to trade down 0.3 per cent versus the dollar, selling at $1.5400.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

Shares dropped to 222 pence, wiping around 0.20 per cent off their value, as stock brokers may consider the move risky in the current economic climate.

Over the past year air travel companies have lost a collective £9 billion in revenue as holidaymakers and those flying for commercial reasons try to save money on transport.

The British air travel group is soon to merge with Spain's Iberia to form an amalgamation known as International Airlines Group.

And stock brokers might feel this significant move should be examined before the companies attempt to acquire other assets.

BA's boss did not name any of the 12 rivals he hopes to buy, but speculators suggest airlines from developing nations such as China or Asia might be in the cross-hairs, according to BBC News.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Late last week the global drugs company revealed the launch of its voluntary public takeover offer and this morning it emerges the Europe-based peer has accepted the tender offer.

Shire has offered €19 (£15.92) in cash for each share, €2.67 for
each Warrant 2006 and decreasing successive amounts for each year leading up to 2009, with €2.27 paid for Warrants bought during the final 12-month periods.

The acceptance period opens today, with the opportunity for rival bidders to give a sum until no later than September 27th at 16:00 BST, when the auction will close and the firm - which focuses on producing medicines for high unmet need - will be sold for the highest offer.

Stock markets are responding with cautious acceptance to the news, with Shire's shares moving up 0.1 per cent on the London Stock Exchange and 0.33 per cent on the NASDAQ to sell at £14.61 pence.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Falling to a one-month low against the single European currency, the pound hit 83.56 pence during the morning session, a level not seen since August 9th, Reuters reports.

Forex trading on the euro also helped push it higher against the greenback, as it rose to a three-week high of $1.2918, before settling back to $1.2907, up 0.1 per cent overall versus the US currency.

Firmer share trading depressed speculator demand for the dollar, as global markets continue to perform well following better-than-expected economic data emerging from the US late last week.

British money fell due to disappointing surveys on the UK economy, which stoked Forex trader fears the recovery might be stalling due austerity measures and poor commercial confidence.

And the dollar was weaker all round, sliding against the yen to provoke fears it would break the 15-year low seen recently.  

MSCI's all-country world stock index and its Thomson Reuters counterpart were both up more than 0.5 per cent during the morning session (September 6th), with the former having added almost 3.7 per cent by the end of last week, reveals Reuters.

Firmer share trading depressed the dollar, as the euro rose to a three-week high of $1.2918, before settling back to $1.2907, up 0.1 per cent versus the US currency.

Meanwhile, the greenback showed signs of breaching a 15-year low against the yen as it continued to slide amid better risk-taking appetite amongst stock brokers.

Share trading in Europe and Asia was consistently strong, with Europe's FTSEurofirst 300 adding around 0.3 per cent and Japan's Nikkei 225 ending up 2.05 per cent.

Gareth Berry, currency strategist at UBS, commented: "We are seeing some relief from fears about a double-dip recession in the US helping risk sentiment and the euro."

Posted by Adam Howard 

Stock brokers saw the energy for October delivery lose 22 cents to reach around $74 dollars a barrel, as commodity trading experts bet on low buying in the near term.

Better-than-expected job market data from the US buoyed commodity trading in oil last week (September 3rd) as a predicted 100,000 jobs lost from government bodies was not met, with little more than 50,000 workers losing their position during August.

Strong data led to price increases, taking the value of one barrel up to around $75 on Thursday (September 2nd), but the optimistic mood has not lasted into this week, despite a good performance in Asian markets during today’s share trading.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Spot gold was up 26 cents an ounce to $1,248 (£812.44) by 06:34 BST, bouncing back from a low of $1,235 seen on Friday, after better-than-expected US jobs figures boosted stock trader appetite for riskier assets, reports Reuters.

Commodities trading experts claim bargain hunters are shoring up the price of the precious metal, indicating confidence in the positive economic data is shaky and stock brokers continue to value the safer option.

A Hong Kong dealer explained: "There's a bit of buying at lower prices. It looks like everybody is still slightly bullish on gold because the US
economy is only recovering very slowly."

Earlier in the day, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund,
SPDR Gold Trust, revealed its holdings slipped to 1,294.442 tonnes by September 3rd, down from 1,294.908 tonnes the day before.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

On Friday it was revealed almost half the predicted number of government jobs were lost in August, with some 54,000 individuals from this sector entering unemployment, against the 100,000 forecast.

Reuters reports share trading in the East rose for major markets, with the Nikkei 225 faring the best, jumping by 1.5 per cent, while the Topix followed with a 1.2 per cent hike.

Stock brokers outside the country also saw rising values, with the MSCI Asia stock index outside Japan floating up 0.7 per cent, indicating despite the positive news, share trading experts remain somewhat cautious.

European markets also finished up at the end of last week after the better-than-expected figures emerged, with the FTSE 100 closing up 1.1 per cent or 57.11 points, continuing a six-day run of positive closing.

Posted by Adam Howard 

The energy giant has added 0.61 per cent - or 2.4 pence - to its value during early morning trade today (September 3rd), after it revealed the cap to control the MC252 well continues to hold, preventing oil from leaking out since June 15th.

Stock traders might have taken confidence from the news, as the group's share price rocketed from 394 pence to 395.25 pence within minutes of early morning buying and selling commencing at 08:00 BST.

News the work to drill relief wells is progressing may also have shored up share trading in the global corporation, encouraging stock brokers to buy assets in the firm while prices are still relatively low.

Following the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in late April, BP lost more than 40 per cent of its value in commodity trading, with petrochemicals pouring into the sea off the southern US for months before the company managed to stem the flow.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Reuters reports Forex predictions for the Japanese currency are the strongest seen since early 2008, despite the fact experts believe it will rise at a much slower rate than previously thought.

Foreign exchange trading specialists calculate the Asian money will drop against the dollar, but note the Bank of Japan's (BoJ) efforts to dampen its rapid appreciation have not been as successful as it was hoped.

Last week the measures taken appeared to be working and confidence returned to Japanese markets, but it seems the method has not been effective enough and the yen continues to outpace rival currencies.

Kenneth Broux of Lloyds TSB Corporate Markets commented: "Price action over the past few days has demonstrated that BoJ policy has become ineffective in slowing yen appreciation," adding he expects the money to remain buoyant in the short term.  

Reuters describes a "sombre mood" among the share speculators, with the MSCI Asian stock index outside Japan appreciating by just 0.3 per cent as experts hedge their bets, reluctant to make big moves before potentially downbeat figures from the jobs market.

The Nikkei 225 added 0.6 per cent to its value, performing better than last week, when failed attempts to curb the rise of the yen saw stock brokers abandon the index, leading to falls of more than one per cent.

However, the Japanese trading platform is still down 13 per cent on the year, which may also be dampening stock broker appetite for high-risk assets.

Daisuke Karakama, market economist at Mizuho Corporate Bank, remarked: "Market players have been building up positions for some time to brace for a weak US recovery. Any upside surprise in the payrolls data could move the market."

Posted by Adam Howard 

If the country decides to release some of its stockpile - which many experts estimate to consist of around two-thirds US dollars, 26 per cent euros, five per cent sterling and three per cent worth of yen - it could have a significant impact on Forex markets.

Selling off large amounts of dollars might cause currency traders to devalue the money, leading to big losses for the Asian tiger, which has around $2.45 trillion (£1.59 trillion) in its coffers.

Hu Xiaolian, a deputy-governor of the People's Bank of China and former director of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, observed: "Once a reserve currency's value becomes unstable, there will be quite large depreciation risks for assets."

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

Chinese investors and groups from other countries have approached a Canadian pension fund about potential collaboration to purchase the fertiliser mining firm and it is rumoured other companies have received similar advances.

The news boosted share trading in the Saskatchewan-based firm this morning, with stocks appreciating by 1.78 per cent - or 2.60 points - to reach a value of $148.55 (£96.31).

A leading producer of zinc and lead, the group's $39 million takeover bid was rejected by Potash, but it is unclear whether the company would be open to acquisition from another corporation.

And share trading on the group might continue to rise if more offers come in, as stock brokers seek to buy up assets as the value continues to inflate.

Data storage company 3Par recently benefited from a bidding war between Dell and Hewlett Packard, which caused its share price to more than triple.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

In a deal worth $3.26 billion (£2.12 billion), the investment company has agreed to pay $24 per share for the home of the Whopper, though they may yet be outbid, as competitors can offer higher sums until October 12th.

This could mean share trading on the firm increases, as stock brokers see added profit in the takeover deal.

The value of 3Par shares rose dramatically after Dell sparked a bidding war in mid-August, with the price continuing to rise as rivals Hewlett-Packard joined in the contest to see who would purchase the data storage company.

Since the global economic downturn the company's growth has slowed as customers eat in restaurants less in an attempt to save money, which could have made the buy-out an attractive deal for the new owners.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Uninspiring growth might be ahead for stock brokers working in commodity share trading or the futures market, so diversifying a portfolio with spread betting could ensure speculators guarantee returns on their investments.

Initial unemployment claims were down by 6,000 to 472,000 over the week in question, according to the US Labor Department.

Other indicators have also suggested poor economic performance in the global powerhouse in recent months, with a slowing housing sector contributing to worries over the long-term outlook for the country's financial recovery.

The report also reveals worker productivity was down more than forecast, making commercial activity more expensive and potentially leading to further staff layoffs in the country.

This means spread betting might be a popular strategy for investors worried about the profits to be made from certain areas of commodity trading.  

In early currency trading the pound had lost 0.4 per cent against the dollar by 11:05 BST to reach $1.5390, while the single European currency inflated to a three-week high at 83.39 pence, reports Reuters.

UK building society Nationwide revealed seasonally-adjusted house prices lost 0.9 per cent in August, having fallen by 0.5 per cent in July.

This was worse than analysts' predictions of 0.2 per cent depreciation and contributed to the poor performance of sterling in Forex markets.

A survey of purchasing managers also showed a sharp slowdown in housing construction, despite the upward revision of British gross domestic product from 1.1 per cent to 1.2 per cent for the second quarter of 2010.

BNP Paribas senior currency strategist Ian Stannard remarked: "The housing market data is a good leading indicator and points to a slowdown on the UK economy."

Posted by Adam Howard 

Bloomberg reports the International Monetary Fund upgraded its growth forecast for South Korea from 5.75 per cent to 6.1 per cent, suggesting global economic slowdown may be less keenly felt in Asia.

Nic Brown, a London-based analyst at Natixis Commodity Markets, noted: "With particular strength in other developing economies, the outlook for industrial growth remains good, so we would expect base metal prices to improve from here."

It was claimed commodities trading has also been supported as the US is putting in more orders for the non-precious metal, signalling better profits for dealers, as it is the second-largest user in the world after China.

However, other commodities trading markets have not fared so well, with crude oil falling on lacklustre data from the US jobless markets, which indicates fuel demand will be subdued.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Reuters reports the Bank for International Settlements found increased demand in Forex markets has been driven by several factors, such as the expansion of insurance firms and central banks.

Forex brokers have seen conventional spot transactions - widely used to give an up-to-date picture of currency transactions - shoot up by 48 per cent over the 36-month period.

Alan Bozian, chief executive officer of FX settlement system CLS observed: "Forex remains a very fertile environment and the number of participants and the number of types of participants has grown."

Experts say the next week might prove good for the dollar, as speculators seek safe investments due to caution ahead of key US financial data releases.

Currency trading specialists have recently been shaken by rapid gains in the value of the yen, which the Bank of Japan has now taken steps to control.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

Gold futures for December delivery were little changed at $1,248 (£812.37), while spot gold appreciated by 0.2 per cent – or $2.50 – bringing the total to $1,246 by 04:31 BST, reveals Reuters.

Popular following negative economic news, commodity trading in precious metals such as gold might receive a boost later in the week, as analysts expect US job market data to remain poor.

Philip Futures analyst Ong Yi Ling predicted: "We're seeing the economic recovery still has several [long-term] soft spots such as the labour market. So I still expect gold to continue on the upward trend."

Futures commodity trading improved yesterday on the back of gains in Asian markets and better-than-expected consumer confidence polls in the US, with Standard & Poor's 500 Index futures for September adding 1.2 per cent during early morning trading.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Known as SEROQUEL XR Extended Release Tablets, the pharmaceutical group will now seek local approval to sell the product in 17 European Union member states, with a positive response potentially pushing the value of shares in the company higher.

Falling to 3,266.5 points first thing in the morning session, the group has been steadily rising since and has now added 14 points to hit 3,280.5.

The medical firm closed at 3285 points yesterday, but stock investing in the company could improve following this positive result, which may mean a greater market share for the globally active enterprise.

AstraZeneca reports the drug has been updated to improve performance with regard to issues such as suicidality, weight gain and dizziness and information is included with the new product to inform users of the changes.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Closing at 1,234 pence yesterday, the value dropped to 1,209 pence per share during the early session today, indicating stock brokers may have reservations regarding the purchase of six adjacent regions in Ethiopia and Kenya.

Exploration director Angus McCoss stated the group was "delighted" with the deal, adding: "Rift Basins are a core play for Tullow and to date we have discovered and identified resources in excess of 2.5 billion barrels in the Lake Albert Rift Basin in Uganda."

The agreement was signed with Africa Oil Corp and the acquisition expands on an earlier deal for Block 10BA with Centric Energy, announced in August.

But with stock charts dropping, it seems speculators are not convinced of the value of the agreement and the company may have to show results before investor confidence can be secured.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

The oil giant, which recently suffered a devastating blow to its share trading price after the explosion of an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico, has agreed to sell its Malaysian interests in ethylene and polyethylene to the business.

A total of $363 million (£235.85 million) in cash was paid to the global group at the close of the markets yesterday, which included a balance sheet adjustment and the repayment of a $53 million shareholder loan.

At first stock brokers reacted negatively, with shares falling to a little over 376 pence each.

But the firm rallied later in the day, to break a high point of more than 390 pence, before closing the share trading session around 388 pence.

Sue Rataj, president of BP's global petrochemicals business, called the interests "attractive", but stated PETRONAS is their natural owner.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Bloomberg reports economic downturns in global trading powerhouses have impacted less upon developing nations, meaning their share of world equity capitalization reached a record 25 per cent in August, up from 22 per cent at the same time last year.

And share trading experts will have noted the stocks were outperforming those of countries such as Japan and the US.

Philip Poole, the London-based global head of macro and investment strategy at HSBC Global, observed: "The fundamentals have changed," adding: "There is a case for a re-rating of emerging markets relative to the developed world."

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index is valued at 14.1 times reported profits and 1.9 times net assets, compared with ratios of 14.9 and 1.7 for the MSCI World Index.

This may make share trading in such nations a good prospect, as markets in the west suffered a difficult four weeks recently due to a spate of negative financial data.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

Reuters reports the London blue chip index is set to retreat by between five and eight points when it opens at 09:00 BST.

Yesterday, the FTSE closed 1.7 per cent lower on 5,211.29 points and the negative trend is set to continue today following falls on Asian and US markets overnight.

The Nikkei 225 was down two per cent when it closed earlier today, while stocks on Wall Street retreated to the lowest close for almost four weeks amid concerns about unemployment and manufacturing levels in the country.

Stock brokers will have no notable US or UK economic data to influence their trading decisions but may be hoping for gains from retailers, which got a boost yesterday from the release of upbeat sales figures for July.

Data from the Office for National Statistics showed transactions completed last month were 2.8 per cent higher than the same period in 2009.

Posted by Adam Howard

Reuters reports the pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 was 0.3 per cent higher by 08:07 BST, putting it on 1,039.25 points.

It had fallen by almost two per cent over the past two days after the release of downbeat data in the US caused stock brokers to raise concerns about the strength of the global economic recovery.

Among the strongest performers were energy stocks, which have rebounded after seeing large falls.

There was a jump of 6.7 per cent for Dana Petroleum after it emerged it is the subject of a takeover bid from Korea National Oil, while Total and Repsol rose by 0.6 per cent and 0.7 per cent respectively.

In London, the FTSE 100 was up 10.63 points as the market opened, taking it to 5,221.92 points.

Performances were mixed among oil and gas producers, with four rising and three retreating.

Posted by Adam Howard

Falling to $7,286 (£8,647) a metric tonne, 0.3 per cent was erased from its value, reversing earlier gains that saw values appreciate up to 0.8 per cent, reports Bloomberg.

"The negative sentiment arising from these figures fed markets a grim outlook on the state of US recovery," commented trader Randy North.

However, commodity trading was shored up slightly by speculation that demand is improving, on the basis that stockpiles of the metal are shrinking.

Earlier in the week, this sentiment pushed copper for delivery in three months up by 0.4 per cent to $7,409 per metric tonne.

This value has not been reached on the London Metal Exchange since August 10th and could indicate commodity trading on the substance will not remain depressed for long.

Posted by Gareth Mann

In total, the fuel has fallen 1.2 per cent this week and Bloomberg reports Energy Department data revealed North American petroleum inventories are at their highest in 20 years.

Earlier gains on the back of strong Chinese demand have been erased, despite crude oil for delivery in September expanding by 66 cents yesterday, adding 0.9 per cent to its value to trade at $76.08 (£48.77) a barrel.

Jonathan Barratt, managing director at Commodity Broking Services Pty in Sydney, opined: "Sentiment and the fundamental news at the moment is still quite bearish and I think that will weigh on the market and probably see prices lower."

The commodity trading expert predicted $70 to $68 as a possible price per unit.

Posted by Gareth Mann

The latest survey from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) showed more than a fifth (21 per cent) of manufacturers are enjoying above normal orders, while 34 per cent said they were below standard levels.

This brings the balance to -13 per cent, its best level since August 2008, which may create renewed confidence among stock brokers.

National Office for Statistics (ONS) data released yesterday (August 19th) indicated the total value of retail sales last month was 2.8 per cent higher than the same period in 2009.

Non-food stores showed the best improvement, trading 3.7 per cent above last year's levels, while consumables were up 0.8 per cent on the corresponding four-week period.

Lai Wah Co, CBI head of economic analysis, stated: "Prospects for the manufacturing sector remain very positive. Demand is steadily improving … and manufacturers expect slightly stronger production growth in the three months ahead."

Posted by Alex Sawyer

Reuters reported the pound was down 0.7 per cent at 11:50 BST, slightly rallying from the day's low of $1.5465, the lowest it has been since July 27th.

The drop in Forex trading confidence led to strong interest in safe currencies such as the yen and Swiss franc as the UK money lost further ground against the dollar.

Royal Bank of Scotland currency strategist Paul Robson stated: "If the worries that the US economy will fall over and concerns about a global slowdown gather ground, it will be pretty negative for the UK and the pound."

Sterling performance was stronger yesterday on the back of good retail sales figures from July.

Official figures showed the sector expanded by 1.1 per cent compared with the previous month and public borrowing also fell further than forecast.

Posted by Gareth Mann

The computer company put forward an offer to pay one-third more for the software producing firm, promising $24 (£15.45) a share, compared with Dell's $18.

And share trading responded positively to the news, which would see the smaller firm sell for $1.6 billion, significantly more than the sum offered by the rival business on August 16th.

This pushed 3Par's share value higher by 38.64 per cent to trade at $25.01.

Dave Donatelli, general manager of HP's Enterprise Servers, Storage and Networking unit, argued: "HP's proposal offers superior value to 3Par's shareholders. Our global reach, strong routes to market and commitment to innovation uniquely position HP as the ideal fit for 3Par."

But stock brokers may be unsure about the advantages of the move for people with interests in HP, as shares lost 0.63 per cent of their value in pre-market trading.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

Rising more than four per cent, the British insurer holds a controlling stake in Nedbank, which was been boosted by the revelation HSBC is to buy up 70 per cent of the South African financial group.

And commodity trading was lifted as the elections in Australia proved inconclusive, resulting in speculation a minority conservative government could manage the country, which would increase the likelihood of the scrapping of a proposed mining tax.

BHP Billiton, which is manoeuvring to assume control of Potash Corp, added two per cent to its share price, while fellow mining group Rio Tinto performed similarly, appreciating by 1.9 per cent.

But Reuters reports stock brokers want to see firmer proof the deal will go ahead before responding to the news, as the outcome of the wrangling is as yet uncertain.  

Posted by Adam Howard

Bloomberg reports the end of the federal tax credit for buyers signalled a drop off in home purchasing, coupled with associated falls in demand for manufacturing of residence-related goods and rising unemployment in relevant sectors.

It reveals data due to be released tomorrow (August 24th) by the Chicago-based National Association of Realtors will show a 12.9 per cent deflation in the real estate market in July, the biggest monthly loss since the start of the year.

Pennsylvania-based Moody's Analytics group West Chester states spending on house buying and associated products - such as furniture and kitchen appliances - made up around 15 per cent of gross domestic product during the second quarter of 2010.

And stock investing could therefore suffer, as fewer jobs and liquidity in the sector slows down national economic recovery and might encourage individuals to conserve wealth rather than speculate on markets.

The dollar fell against both the euro and the pound today, indicating Forex trader confidence in US recovery may be low.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

Expansion on the Dow Jones industrial average (DJI) was checked by the company's announcement it is to make a $1.6 million (£1.03 million) bid for software producing firm 3Par, reports Reuters.

This represents a 33.33 per cent premium on a prior offer by rival computing company Dell, which promised $18 per share on August 16th, only to be outdone by HP's offer of $24 per share this morning.

DJI value expanded 0.24 per cent - adding 26.64 points - to reach a level of 10, 240.26.

At the same time, the Standard and Poor's 500 Index gained 3.31 points (0.31 per cent) to hover at 1,075.00.

News of the generous bid pushed 3Par shares higher by 38.64 per cent to trade at $25.01, but stock investing in the sector nonetheless depreciated in the eyes of many, with HP shares shaving 0.63 per cent off their value in pre-market trading.

Posted by Adam Howard 

Reuters reported the euro sank to a point not seen since late June, dropping to 81.60 pence during today's trading (August 23rd).

Fears about the lack of robustness of eurozone economic recovery might have caused Forex traders to shy away from the currency in favour of safe haven monies such as the Swiss Franc or Japanese yen.

And worries about global financial performance affected Forex and stock trader confidence around the world, as the Nikkei 225 slid to a nine-month trough, closing down 0.7 per cent or 62.29 points to settle at 824.79.

Meanwhile, weak performance in US housing markets also dented speculator risk appetite, as it was reported home purchasing fell more than 12 per cent in July, which could drag down financial output in the economy as a whole.  

Posted by Adam Howard

Stuart Law, chief executive officer of property investment consultants Assetz, observes there was "very substantial improvement" in lending terms during July, which could mean property firms once again become a profitable investment.

And improved share trading in the sector could also lift performance, as confidence returns to the market and stakeholders may find it easier to work due to improved liquidity.

A recent report from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) showed a five per cent jump in the number of house purchase loans approved over the four-week period, indicating the market is easing and residential mortgages, as well as buy-to-let deals, are easier to find.

The rapid expansion means total borrowing for property buyers is on target to meet CML predictions of £140 billion throughout the whole of 2010.

Posted by Alex Sawyer 

Bloomberg reports the financial vehicle Commodity Net raised bets on value gains for a range of commodities, bringing the group to its highest level since April 2008.

An index of futures contracts tracking net soared to 1.18 million lots, after appreciating by 2.6 per cent by the middle of last week (August 17th).

Factors such as drought and uncertain output from crop producers across the world might have added energy to the spike, as one futures trading commentator pointed out Russia has banned exports of the foodstuff due to adverse weather conditions.

Amrita Sen, an analyst at Barclays Capital, told the publication: "It's not a broad-based improvement in commodities, as we'd seen before."

Last month wheat futures leapt 38 per cent, while August has seen prices rise to $8.68 a bushel, representing a 23-month high.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

The air and gas company increased operating profit significantly, raising revenues by 10.2 per cent.

Consolidated net income jumped from €1,354 million (£1,111 million) in the first half of 2009 to €6,451 million over the same period this year, with €6,121 million of this attributable to the group.

And stock brokers could therefore see the firm as a good investment, with revenue expected to grow over the second half of 2010, albeit at a slower pace due to the base effect.

Originating in France, company shares added 6.34 per cent to their value today, a 75.37 per cent improvement on the same time last year.

At last price they were €24.99 with 1,500 traded.

With operations in Europe, America and Asia, the enterprise might find business is affected by differing rates of growth in various regions.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

The FTSEEuroFirst 300 Index was down one per cent - or 1,026.37 points - by 08:08 BST, despite adding 0.7 per cent to its value during trading yesterday (August 23rd), reports Reuters.

Energy commodities trading lost ground because of fears over long-term global demand, knocking between 0.8 and 1.6 per cent off the value of oil giants BP, Total and ENI.

Justin Urquhart Stewart, director at Seven Investment Management, stated: "In light volumes, [the market] is reacting to every bit of news and the next economic news could be bad."

He observed information relating to mergers and acquisitions is having a "disproportionate effect" and expressed concern over the impact of potentially weak housing data emerging from the US.

Reports of possible company takeovers include HSBC, which revealed yesterday it is in talks to buy a 70 per cent stake in South African financial group Nedbank.

Posted by Adam Howard  

Showing a total return of €42 million (£34.38 million), the Netherlands-based financial group has also reduced its impairments compared with the first six months of last year, which might have helped it improve operating revenue.

Jeroen Drost, chief executive officer of the bank, commented: "In the first half of 2010 we have seen continued strong demand from our clients for our products and services across the full range of our activities."

He added: "Our unique position and client focus are paying off," noting increased business in the Dutch mortgage market also contributed to the strong performance.

Reuters reports the merchant bank's predecessor was founded after the second world war by the Dutch government and was listed in 1986.

Posted by Gareth Mann 

A spokesperson who refused to be named due to the confidential nature of the plans claimed an offer would be made in the next few days, which could derail Hewlett Packard's (HP) top bid from yesterday (August 23rd).

The computer giant trumped Dell's original offer of $18 per share, trouncing it with a 33.33 per cent premium that brought the total sum under discussion up to $1.15 billion (£740 million).

And share trading speculators may be waiting to see what Dell will come up with to better its rival's offer.

When the news broke yesterday, 3Par shares pushed higher by 38.64 per cent to trade at $25.01, but stock investors were not so sure of the benefits for HP, as shares lost 0.63 per cent of their value in pre-market trading.

Posted by Gareth Mann

The group saw revenues increase by three per cent to £4,441 billion, while like-for-like profits rose by 2.5 per cent.

However, the outcomes were disappointing for some speculators and shares in the marketing firm sank by around 3.5 per cent following the announcement.

Headline operating profit was up by more than a third to £445 million and operating margins also increased by 2.3 points.

In a statement the group commented: "The results reflect the recovery in the world economy, following the massive fiscal and monetary stimulus in response to the sub-prime, insurance monoline, Lehman and other elements of the crises."

And it seems stock investing professionals are also cautious about the data, which indicate the firm may be surviving the recession, but might lag behind competitors in terms of business expansion or consolidation.

Posted by Gareth Mann