Around the World's Markets: London

THE FTSE 100 ended slightly down after a mixed day as dealers awaited the decision on US rates that came after the market closed.

Depressed by weakness in bank stocks, the index ended down a slim seven points, 0.1 per cent, at 6,315.1. Banks took a total of seven points off the FTSE as profit takers moved in after recent gains. Index heavyweight HSBC was the biggest negative factor, its 1.6 per cent loss alone carving five points from the index.

Market report, page 17