Market makes moderate advance

The ISEQ index edged up slightly yesterday, to close up 16.06 points at 3,148.63.

Markets barely moved amid concerns over Greece’s debt restructuring programme and deteriorating outlook for the global economy.

Investors are also awaiting a private report on American non-farm payrolls tomorrow as confirmation that the US economic recovery is still on track.

In the financial sector, Bank of Ireland added 0.5c to 12.9c. AIB slipped 0.3c to 11c. Irish Life & Permanent gained 0.4c to 4.7c, while insurance group FBD advanced 20c to €8.50.

In the construction sector, Grafton Group has reported operating profit of €57m, up 12.5% year-on-year, and above management guidance given in January. Shares dipped 13.7c to €3.15. CRH dropped 21c to €15.09, while Kingspan was 17c better at €8.10.