Market boost on France status

THE ISEQ index gained 46.46 points yesterday to close at 2,978.97, in line with other European and world indices.

After the US close on Monday, Alcoa, the largest USaluminium producer, reported fourth-quarter revenue that beat Wall Street expectations, which gave a boost tomarkets. Markets were also lifted by news that ratings agency Fitch said it would not cut France’s AAA status.

In the financial sector, Bank of Ireland added 0.2c to 8.4c. AIB gained 0.1c to 5.8c. Irish Life & Permanent slipped 0.4c to 2.6c, while insurance group FBD Holdings advanced 25c to €6.85.

In the construction sector, CRH increased 67c to €15.28. Grafton Group progressed 10c to €2.50, while Kingspan tacked on 5c to €6.60.