Finance sector lifts ISEQ

The ISEQ closed in positive territory yesterday, rising 28.91 points from Tuesday's tally to 4341.37 points.

The financial sector had a strong day. Anglo Irish Bank Plc, the fourth largest bank on the ISEQ, reported a full-year profit rise of 44% yesterday, and closed the day 30c higher to €6.70.

Allied Irish Bank Plc and Bank of Ireland Plc also finished stronger, AIB closing 50c to €14.55 and Bank of Ireland Plc 7c better off to €10.42. Irish Life & Permanent Plc lost 7c to €11.13 and First Active Plc gained 3c to €5.20.

The ISEQ Index of financial shares closed 176.46 points higher to 8675.42 points. Greencore Plc rose 12c to €2.67.

The Dublin-based food company, announcing increased sales of convenience foods, reported improved full-year results, beating analysts estimates.

Among others in the food sector, IAWS Plc and Glanbia Plc remained unchanged at €7.93 and €1.58 respectively.

Other noteworthy climbers on a positive day for Irish shares included Jury's Doyle Hotel Group Plc, up 15c to €7.15, Arnotts Plc 10c better off to €9.40 and Riverdeep Group Plc 8c higher to €1.60.

On a negative note, Ryanair Plc lost 21c to €7.69 and Kerry Group Plc fell 19c to €13.11.