Performances of main stock exchanges in first quarter of 2012. - In the first quarter of 2012, world stock markets experienced an exceptional start to the year, according to estimates by the Standard & Poor's ratings agency. Several indicators illustrate quarterly performances unsurpassed for several decades. In total, stock market capitalisation on international stock markets was to the tune of almost $3,400 billion, wiping away all the losses suffered in 2011 (around $3,000 billion)....