Strong performance from financials

BOURSES around Europe were mixed yesterday, with the Irish index advancing for a second day rising €61.35 points to finish at 5187.34.

The main financials were stronger, Allied Irish Bank gained 18c to €13.30 while Bank of Ireland strengthened 10c to €11.10. Anglo Irish Bank remained unchanged at €12.60 with just over one million shares changing hands.

Food stock Glanbia announced it has formed a joint venture with Milk Link Ltd. Glanbia will have a 25% stake in the company, which will be the second largest cheese producer in Britain. Glanbia closed 3c lighter at €2.47.

Elsewhere among the construction companies, CRH rose by 7c to €16.88, McInerney closed 5c higher while Kingspan remained unchanged at €4.42.