ISEQ sees slight slip

The ISEQ index finished down 43.51 points to 9357.47 by close of trading today.

The financials reflected the overall trend, with all four losing ground. Irish Life & Permanent fared worst, sliding 45c to €20.20. Anglo Irish Bank fell 24c to €15.52, with Allied Irish Bank (down 19c to €21.26) and Bank of Ireland (down 11c to €15.99) doing little better.

There was little significant movement for most companies, with Irish Continental Group the only considerable winner, shooting up 55c to €20.05 on the strength of a takeover bid by The Doyle Group and One Fifty One Capital Limited.

Elsewhere in the travel sector, Ryanair gained 10c to €6.12 following more positive news on passenger numbers. Rival Aer Lingus had a good day, edging up 7c to €3.17.

Despite the general loss, there were some positive results for some firms. Bookmaker Paddy Power continued its good recent run, with a 34c gain to €20.59. In the food sector, Kerry Group enjoyed a 23c jump to €21.60. Iona also did well, climbing 12c to €4.65.

There was less good news in the construction sector, as McInerney Holdings shed 21c to €15.19. Kingspan also fell somewhat, sliding 19c to €19.85.

Tullow Oil gave up 4c to finish at €5.41 following its decision to sell Itochu Corporation.