UK stock markets have closed for the Christmas break in an upbeat mood. The prospects of a Brexit trade deal with the EU helped the FTSE 250 to jump 1.15% to 20,531. But the blue-chip FTSE 100 ended the day's trading up just 0.01% at 6,502 as traders waited for confirmation of the deal to emerge. Market positivity will give a seasonal boost to investors, including the millions who have a financial stake in stock markets through their pensions. The pound was up, showing a gain of about 0.7% against the dollar to touch $1.36, and was up 0.6% against the euro at €1.1146.Across Europe, shares were also on the rise, ... (full story)