Market pushes near symbolic 8,000

The ISEQ capitalised on Friday’s strong numbers, pushing ever closer to the 8,000 point level of May.

The ISEQ index mirrored gains on most European bourses closing 43.63 higher at 7,917.47.

The financials had a mixed session. AIB added 1c to €20.20 and Anglo-Irish was the only other positive in this sector adding 12c to €12.92. Bank of Ireland dropped 13c to end the day at €14.83, while Irish Life and Permanent followed this negative trend shedding 5c to €19.25.

The construction sector was a positive driver on the market overall with CRH jumping 37c to €26.17, Kingspan and Grafton rose 8c and 6c with the former ending at €14 and the latter at €10.36.

Elan had a very strong day, tacking on 41c to €12.60. Ryanair also gained 13c to close out the day at €7.23. This came on the day that Aer-Lingus announced its flotation.