ISEQ falls in line with Europe

The ISEQ index fell sharply in line with bourses throughout Europe after losses on Wall Street as markets reacted cautiously to positive comments made by the US Federal Reserve on Wednesday.

In the financial sector, AIB fell back 6c to 3.19, Bank of Ireland dropped 19c to 2.95, Irish Life & Permanent gave up 37c to 5.50, while insurance group FBD Holdings added 2c to 7.70. Glanbia added 2c to 2.82 while Readymix was 1c stronger at 24c.

CRH weakened 53c to 19.01, Kingspan declined 20c to 6.25, while Grafton Group closed 7c shyer at 3.60.

In other news, Ryanair is “highly unlikely” to make a third bid for Aer Lingus but it is prepared to “invest more money” in the rival airline, according to chief executive Michael O’Leary. The shares closed down 12c at 3.49.