Barclays faces fresh probe

Barclays is under fresh pressure over its emergency fundraising at the height of the financial crisis after the City watchdog reportedly reopened its probe into the deal.

It is understood the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is reviewing new evidence that could prompt it to reconsider a £50 million fine against the banking giant four years ago.

The regulator is said to have been conducting a series of interviews in recent weeks over the deal, which saw Barclays raise £7.3 billion from Qatari and Abu Dhabi royals in 2008.

A separate criminal investigation by the Serious Fraud Office is nearing conclusion.