Good day for financials

The ISEQ broke through the 4000 point barrier for the first time since September 26 yesterday

The financial sector performed strongly led by Bank of Ireland which added 45c to €10.55. Other gainers on the day included Allied Irish Bank ending the day 7c higher to 13.05 and First Active closing up 5c to €4.60. Anglo Irish Bank and Irish Life & Permanent lost 4c to close at €6.18 and €12.01 respectively. IFG added 2c to 57c. The Irish Financial Index of shares closed 146.26 higher to 8316.26 points.

The pharmaceutical sector had a positive day driven by United Drug which closed 30c higher to €12.40. Elan Pharmaceuticals added 15c to €1.50 and Galen fell 12c to €6.40.