The FTSE 100 fell at the start of the week, adding to losses seen over the course of last week, while safe-haven assets continued upward.
Bitcoin climbed above US$70,000 for the first time ever this morning, as demand continues to soar for the crypto, while gold also approached high, hitting US$2,182 per ounce earlier on.
Among other headlines, KPMG and REC UK reported overall demand for workers declined at the fastest pace since early 2021 last month, as wage increases also slowed.
Currys slumped as the market opened after US suitor Elliott Advisors ruled out making an offer to buy the electronics retailer.
And finally, Coro Energy climbed early on after announcing it had submitted an application to build a second wind farm in the Philippines.