Financials help markets rise

THE Irish market advanced yesterday, buoyed by the financials, as the ISEQ index rose 26.98 points to 5353.11.

Allied Irish Bank rose 20c to €12.55 as analysts absorbed Monday’s upbeat trading statement. Bank of Ireland gained 18c to €10.95, while Irish Life & Permanent climbed 20c to €12.90 ahead of its trading statement due out today. Anglo Irish Bank went against this positive trend, falling 7c to €12.93.

Betting group Paddy Power climbed 23c to €9.43 following the company's AGM yesterday.