Financials power ahead

THE surge in world markets yesterday was mirrored

Financial shares powered ahead with Irish Life & Permanent soaring 90c to 12.10. Bank of Ireland climbed 35c to 9.95, following the announcement of the terms of its bid approach to Abbey National. Anglo Irish Bank added 27c to 6.20, Allied Irish Bank gained 20c to 12.50 while First Active finished 13c higher at 4.60. Overall, the ISEQ financial index added an impressive 301.30 points to 8053.22.

Elsewhere, construction giant CRH climbed 70c to 13.20, Heiton Group added 24c to 2.45 while Grafton Group closed 15c firmer at 3.45.

In the food sector, Kerry Group rose 25c to 12.80, IAWS gained 20c to 7.10 and Greencore up 10c at 2.70.

Budget airline Ryanair rose 27c to 5.80 and hotel group Jurys Doyle finished 25c stronger at 6.95.

Negative movers on the day included DCC, down 5c to 9.40, United Drug 20c weaker at 12.30 and Independent News & Media 2c lighter at 1.30.