Market produces modest advance

THE ISEQ index commenced the new week with a modest rise of 9.24 points to 2,981.31.

European markets were generally stronger boosted by a renewed optimism for corporate earnings and an encouraging Chinese trade figures.

The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index of top shares was up 0.33% at 1,178, and after reaching a peak of 1,182.80 in early morning trading, its highest since early September 2008.