European markets progress

European markets moved higher for the most part yesterday as equity markets felt more positive following the release of the October non-farm payrolls figure in the US.

The headline figure came in at an increase of 171,000 jobs versus consensus expectations of about 140,000. This data confirmed rising momentum in the US economy and was all the more positive in that for once it was not policy-led.

The ISEQ index added 30.84 points or about 1% to finish the week at 3,313.04.

Irish bank stocks were flat to slightly ahead on the day as Bank of Ireland led the way with an increase of 0.3c to close at 9.9c. AIB lost 0.1c to 5c while Permanent TSB Group was flat resting at 2.4c. Irish insurer FBD Holdings added 3.5c to €9.58.

Construction stocks were mixed as CRH continued itsrecent upward trend by gaining 25.5c to €14.90. Kingspan was 1.6c better off at €8.14 while Grafton Group reversed the trend, shedding 0.1c to €3.44.