Markets unstable ahead of meeting

Markets across Europe were mixed at the beginning of the week, while US markets were also down in early trading.

Political tension across European states has led to instability in markets as European finance ministers meet to extend the maturities on EFSF and ESM loans for Ireland and Portugal. Italy’s election results last week have also cast a shadow of uncertainty. Despite this, the Iseq finished 49.08 points ahead at 3,811.28

Irish financials were also mixed on the day. AIB fell 0.2c to 6.3c. Permanent TSB Group was up 0.2c to 3.3c while Bank of Ireland advanced 0.5c to 13.6c, having released full-year results for 2012 yesterday. The headline figure included a pre-tax loss of €2.16bn. FBD Holdings tacked on 22c to €1.70.