Banking stocks boost market

THE ISEQ index benefited from a strong performance from the banking sector yesterday. The Dublin exchange climbed 41.69 points to close at 7930.93.

AIB rose 25c to €19.15 while rival Bank of Ireland also gained ground, up 28c to €14.86. Anglo Irish added 11c to end trading at €13.05 and Irish Life and Permanent edged two higher to €20.02.

Construction stocks were weaker on the day with CRH down 5c to €29.15 and Grafton shed 9c to €10.99. Readymix closed 1c lighter despite positive news flow regarding RMC prices in the Irish concrete market.