Financial sector gains ground

THE ISEQ index rose yesterday for a second day in succession to close 16.43 points higher at 4769.49.

The financial stocks gained ground. Anglo Irish Bank advanced 20c to 12.30, Bank of Ireland added 7c to 10.60 and Irish Life & Permanent finished 7c stronger at 11.95. However Allied Irish Bank fell 4c to finish at 12.18.

Elsewhere over 17 million shares were traded in Waterford Wedgwood. The stock ended the day 4c higher at 25c. Elan Corporation was 11c firmer at 4.76.