Around the World's Markets: London

SHARES closed lower amid mounting concerns over possible rises in US interest rates and falls in corporate profits.

The FTSE 100 posted a 72.8 loss to 6,249.3 with over 1 billion shares traded. The leading index reacted to Wall Street's overnight sell-off with a 130-point plunge in the morning. However, a firm opening in the Dow triggered a modest afternoon rebound. The undercard was also heavily sold, with the FTSE 250 ending 56.4 lower at 5653.7 and the Small Cap 13.1 down at 2557.4. Market Report, page 25