Market static on Central Bank data

Shares in Dublin closed slightly higher yesterday having spent much of the day in the red following disappointing economic data from the Central Bank and ratings agency Moody’s reaffirming its negative stance on Irish banks. The Iseq Index was up 1.51 points to 3,556.01.

In the financial sector AIB was in decline dipping by 0.2c to 7.8c. Bank of Ireland and Permanent TSB Group Holdings held steady for a second consecutive day finishing at 14.4c and 4c. Elsewhere, insurer FBD Holdings shed 4.5c to €10.86.

Construction stocks experienced mixed fortunes with CRH the leading riser with a gain of 13c to €15.90. Kingspan was unchanged at €8.75 while Grafton Group added 1c or 23% to €4.42.