Market News - London

LONDON (ShareCast) - 1050: Publisher Pearson leads the risers after better-than-expected half year figures but Footsie (news) is lower over all with packaging group Rexam (LSE: REX.L - news) the heaviest faller after confirming it is considering an equity-raising. FTSE 100 down 3 at 4,573.

0936: After a firm start leading equities are mixed. Packaging group Rexam is sharply lower after it confirmed it is considering an equity raising to see it through the current difficult market conditions. Banks and resource stocks are in demand, however. FTSE 100 is down 2 at 4,574.

0830: Footsie remains on course for an eleventh straight day of gains. FT owner Pearson (LSE: PSON.L - news) leads the charge on better than expected half year figures. Miners also also in demand again with Lonmin (LSE: LMI.L - news) and Antofagasta (LSE: ANTO.L - news) the best performers. Rexam is the weak spot on confirmation a rights issue is on the way. FTSE 100 up 15 at 4,592.