LinkedIn raises $53m in funding

US shares up on 'Treasury choice'
US shares rise sharply on reports that President-elect Barack Obama has chosen his treasury secretary, reassuring investors.

Barclays secures Middle East cash
British bank Barclays announces a proposal to raise up to £7.3bn to strengthen its balance sheet predominantly from the Middle Eastern investors.

Economy worries hit Gulf shares
Shares in the oil-rich Gulf region fall sharply as investors worry about the impact of the global economic downturn on the region.

European shares open down sharply
Major European share markets all open sharply lower as renewed fears of a global recession unnerve investors.

Growth worries force euro lower
The euro falls to a 19-month low against the dollar as investors fear faltering European economic growth.