World markets received a jolt today after commodity prices fell and investors pondered whether the recent rally in share prices had gone too far.

The McCarthy Insurance Group Cork Oaks kicked-off at Curraheen Park on Saturday with Lughill Jewel setting the early pace with a 28.50 effort in heat in heat 3.

Wine warehouse chain Majestic said today that sales have lost their fizz despite a festive boost in December.

Wine warehouse chain Majestic crowned a sparkling set of annual results today by revealing further strong sales in its new financial year.

The London market edged further above the 6300 mark today as it built on strong gains yesterday despite a slow start to the session.

The London market struggled to make further progress today, despite strong gains for Prudential and a number of retail stocks.

Wine warehouse chain Majestic today said half-year profits increased 17% after the business continued to benefit from a surge in demand for fine wine.

Share prices in London made modest gains today as investors ventured back into the market following the recent turmoil.

The London market was enjoying a positive session today boosted by an announcement from Royal & Sun Alliance on its new cost savings target.

The Irish index of shares gained 33.36 points to close at 7661.44 today.

No-frills airline Ryanair has announced an online agreement with property specialists Majestic Worldwide, focusing initially on Spain and Portugal.

London’s leading shares lost sight of gains notched up in a New Year rally today as miners and utilities fell out of favour.

Wine warehouse chain Majestic continued its record of strong growth today after a 5.5% rise in like-for-like sales and an 18% jump in profits.

NASHEEJ earned a general quote of 25-1 for the 1000 Guineas and a more immediate step up to Group One company with a battling victory in the Murphy’s Fastflow May Hill Stakes at Doncaster.

SEAN Downes (Stackallen) scored a fantastic 132 gross, 30 under par for the 54 holes event to win the men’s All-Ireland senior pitch and putt strokeplay championship at Clonee, Co Meath yesterday.

Wine warehouse chain Majestic today hailed the changing tastes of UK wine drinkers as it unveiled a 24% hike in annual profits.

London shares failed to make up early losses today after a poor start to the week on Wall Street.

British wine warehouse chain Majestic today posted its eleventh consecutive year of record profits and said trading remained strong in 2004.

Mick Channon will wait a few days before deciding on a target for Majestic Desert following her slightly disappointing performance in the UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas.

Some of the lesser lights of the London market should get their chance in the spotlight this week as no blue-chip companies are scheduled to report figures. However, economic news will be prominent, with inflation figures due on Tuesday.

The FTSE 100 Index was holding its own today despite financial services group Britannic delivering another blow to the insurance sector.