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At 09:09, the FTSE 100 had gained 4.59 points after shedding 0.7 per cent yesterday.
Richard Hunter, head of UK equities at Hargreaves Landsownd, told Reuters: "There's a mixed picture, weakness in the oil price is pressuring energy stocks but we're still awaiting clarification on the [US] bailout package and how measures will filter through."
He added that amid the nervousness among investors, there has been some strength in defensive shares recently.
Yesterday, the FTSE 100 slumped to a three-month low as it dipped below the 4,000 level.
The biggest faller was Legal & General which saw its share price decline by 5.3p to 40p, despite assurances over its capital position.
