Banks lead gains in market

THE banks led the charge on a positive day’s trading in Dublin. The lift was also encouraged by gains on London’s FTSE and a stabilisation of oil prizes in the world market.

The ISEQ climbed 7.61 points to 5227.86.

Investors sought out bargains on the main banks as AIB climbed to €12.02. Anglo-Irish added 16c to €13.26 while Irish Life & Permanent closed higher at €12.55. Bank of Ireland was steady at €10.10. The construction sector also helped to boost the index. CRH finished the day level at €17.38. Grafton was solid at €5.85 while McInerney and Kingspan both had positive days.