Market gains on US payroll figures

The Irish market gained 29.34 points to close the week at 3,266.85 yesterday, mirroring trends seen on most major bourses.

US non-farm payroll figures for February were issued. This key indicator of the strength of the US economy came in ahead of expectations and thus gave impetus to European and US markets.

Irish financials were relatively stable with AIB and Bank of Ireland showing no change to close at 11.5c and 13.4c. Irish Life and Permanent shed 0.2c of 4% to finish at 4.8c. Insurer FBD added 4c to €8.55.

Construction stocks fared better with CRH gaining 35.5c or 2% to €16. Grafton Group followed suit, adding 9c to €3.36 while Kingspan was up 12c to €8.39.

Elsewhere, food sector companies Total Produce and Glanbia added more that 2% to end at 48c and €5.96.