How britain's biggest have performed

The FT-SE 100 Index passed the 5,000 barrier for the first time, registering a gain of 132 points on the week, or a rise of 2.7 per cent. It foundered at the end of the week as the pound slipped against European currencies and US stocks fell. The broader FT-SE 250 Index soared, however, notching a 3.6 per cent gain as investors snapped up shares in companies such as BBA and Williams Holdings that have suffered falling profits since the pound soared against European currencies.

Stocks are seen to be mixed as the split grows between UK companies whose fortunes depend on the fluctuations of the pound and those more insulated from the currency market. Some investors say this could be the beginning of a broader recovery for Britain's beleaguered exporters.

Copyright: IOS & Bloomberg