ISEQ down despite bank share boost

AFTER showing moderate gains in early trading Dublin’s ISEQ share index began the week on the wrong foot by falling 1.26% — or nearly 30 points — to rest at just over 2,300 points.

Dublin-based international cement products and building materials giant CRH fell by 67c — or just under 4% — to €16.25, even though it was being linked yesterday to a new port in Co Wicklow.

While CRH was the heaviest faller yesterday, it was by no means unique in its downward movement. Tullow Oil had a rare off-day, falling by 23c to close at €8.48; Tralee-based food giant Kerry Group dipped by 2.52%, or 36c, to €13.90; and DCC was down by 29c at €12.36. Irish Continental Group (ICG) was a significant positive mover, however, given that the latest deadline for a takeover offer for the business is pending. The ferry and freight shipping group was up by as much as €1 to €14, yesterday.