Turbulent week for stock markets as investors scurry for safe havens

Gold and yen rise in value as weekly falls in Europe reach 6% and 11% in Japan, Tokyo's biggest weekly drop since 2008

A turbulent week in global stock markets is ending with Europe attempting to stage a recovery.

Fears about a severe slowdown in the world economy have sent investors scurrying for safe havens such as gold and the Japanese yen, despite Tokyo trying to weaken the currency, and sent stock markets tumbling.

Related: Market turmoil: Stocks rally despite weak Italian and Portuguese growth - live

Gold pic.twitter.com/njMg8enh6t

As another nerve shredding week draws to a close there appears to be some mild relief for investors as equities try to drive higher. However, it may take some time before investors are truly convinced that a move back in to riskier assets is worthwhile, as the market turmoil emanating from Asia and the eurozone shows no sign of going away any time soon.