Record high for market

SHARES in Ireland climbed for the fourth consecutive day as investors focused on the construction and banking sectors. The ISEQ index closed at a record high 7066.27 up 34.9 points.

AIB released a trading statement yesterday in line with market expectations. It predicted double digit growth for the year. But the share price slipped 24c to €18.40 as some investors took profits. Bank of Ireland gained 16c to €13.66. Anglo moved up 12c to €11.85.

Grafton added 20c to close the day at €8.66 while CRH also gained, up 37c to €23.52. Elsewhere, Elan jumped 45c to €9.00 on the back of positive sentiment from the US. Food group C&C increased 10c to €5.26. Ryanair fell 15c as oil crept forward.