Late spurt strengthens ISEQ

THE ISEQ index traded lower for most of the day, however a late spurt pushed it into the black, closing 1943 points higher at 5375.94.

Ryanair was in focus after announcing first quarter results above many analysts' expectations. The stock slipped 8c to €4.33.

CRH added 12c to a new year high of €18.72. The stock was helped by solid US construction figures. Heiton Group, a possible takeover target, climbed 20c to €6.30 while Grafton Group strengthened 5c to €6.80.

The financial stocks were mixed. Irish Life & Permanent dropped 21c, Bank of Ireland rose 6c to €10.90 while Allied Irish Bank gained 5c to €12.85.