Cork-headquartered alternative energy specialist Kedco has raised nearly €1.6m in fresh funding — from new and existing investors — to meet working capital needs and aid development of flagship projects.

The ISEQ index of shares fell back from yesterday's gains, losing 29.70 points to close at 7351.81.

Farmer Business Developments plc has announced that it has today disposed of 4.5 million shares in FBD Holdings plc for a consideration of €153m.

FARMER Business Developments, the biggest shareholder in insurance company FBD Holdings, sold off a 6.14% stake in the company yesterday in a move which grossed €47.5 million.