US stocks have closed mixed after a day of bumpy trade, as eurozone turmoil kept a shadow over world sharemarkets.

The NZ dollar was little changed as investors looked to put their money in low-risk assets such as Government bonds.

Market optimism grew a little on results of a Greek poll and reports that the IMF has begun preparing for a potential rescue loan for Spain.

The dollar rose on speculation Spain may tap European Central Bank funding to bailout Bankia SA to prevent a national banking sector collapse.

World sharemarkets were up overnight, but Facebook shares plunged 10pc.

World markets were down overnight as the political stalemate in Greece continues.

World sharemarkets were up overnight, after better than expected US job data and prospects rose for a new Greek government.

Investors played it safe overnight as Greek parties struggled to form a new government and Spain asked its banks to set aside more money to cover bad loans.

The Reserve Bank's view that the kiwi dollar is set to keep falling has reduced prospects of a cut in an official cash rate, economists say.

The New Zealand dollar fell to a four-month low overnight amid market concern about the election of new governments in France and Greece.

The increasing likelihood of Greece leaving the euro-zone has sent world sharemarkets down overnight.

These voter revolts could destroy what had been an article of faith among bond investors: that modern democracies never default on their debts.