ISEQ just behind positive bourses

EUROPEAN markets were in positive form yesterday with most bourses gaining around 2%.

Shares in Dublin lagged behind their European counterparts, although the ISEQ index did finish 52.84 points higher at 5232.42.

Elan Corporation rose over 4% after it was announced the firm intends to seek the approval of Antegren as a treatment for Crohn's disease in Europe. The stock gained 76c to close at €19.44. United Drug was also higher as it advanced 10c to €2.65.

In the financials Anglo Irish Bank added 41c to €12.68 following an upgrade from a leading British broker. BoI rose 8c to €9.97 while AIB and Irish Life & Permanent were both unchanged at €11.93 and €12.55.

Construction stocks were mixed as Abbey slipped 20c to €7.65 while Heiton climbed 30c to €5.00 and CRH finished 15c stronger at €17.50. Ryanair was 13c higher at €4.63.