Wall Street had an erratic trading session today, closing mixed as investors nervously watched oil prices but were also encouraged by good economic news.

Better-than-expected profits from Citigroup and Bank of America lifted Wall Street today as investors grew more optimistic about a strong economic rebound. A late-day sell-off, however, limited the gains.

THE economy received a major boost yesterday with news that more than 370 jobs are being created by two international companies in Galway and Cork.

A US multinational has announced plans to expand its facilities in Co Galway in a move that could create up to 220 new jobs.

The US Government is investigating trading in shares of 38 companies, including major airlines, cruise lines, General Motors and Raytheon, to determine if people used advance knowledge of the terror attacks to profit.