BEIJING, Feb. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- The Italian elections appear to be heading towards an impasse. Early results suggest the houses of parliament may be split between left and right.

Centre-left candidate Pier Luigi Bersani seems to be moving towards victory in the lower house of Parliament, while controversial former premier Silvio Berlusconi appears to have gained the upper hand in the Senate.

The election comes amid a deep recession and tough austerity measures in Italy. Such a result, if confirmed, does not bode well for Italy’s economic recovery and nervous markets. Milan’s main stock index quickly turned south following the announcement of the first official projections.

(Source: CNTV.cn)