1.   Initially, leading world stock Markets rose strongly following the rate cut.

2.   Mr Greenspan is famously hard to interpret, and the motivation for his rate cut will no doubt remain unclear for now.

3.   Since gilts pay a fixed annual rate of interest, you would be locking in a higher return before the rate cut.

4.   The rate cut is also a way to stimulate economic growth.

5.   A run on sterling has killed off hopes of a rate cut.

6.   The German half point rate cut yesterday has set off speculation on a rate cut in the UK despite Chancellor Kenneth Clarke dampening speculation.

7.   German stocks likely to profit from rate cuts include the banks, and chemicals should benefit through the year from a stronger US dollar.

8.   A rate cut would not be an easy decision.

9.   The Bank of England which has less influence than its German counterpart has been reluctant to advise rate cuts over here.

10.   Also helping fuel expectations for a fifth rate cut is a rebound in the dollar.