Eurozone optimism boosts markets

Eurozone optimism has buoyed markets this afternoon with almost all major indices in positive territory.

Leading the pack is the Cac 40, up 1.49% to 3,222, as politicians on the Continent prepare for the fourteenth crisis summit in 21 months. German policymakers have already backed an increase to the €440bn European Financial Stability Fund, and further leglislation is expected on Greek haircuts, recapitalisation of the banks and reforms to boost the Italian economy. US markets opened slightly higher with the S&P 500 up 0.86% to 1,236 and the Dow Jones climbing 1.17% to 11,844. Shares in London also continued an upbeat morning of trading with the FTSE 100 gaining 0.62% to 5,560.