Shares in Guinness maker Diageo built up a head today as investors responded to reports that Brazil’s richest man was preparing a bid for the British drinks maker.

Irish drinks group C&C would make an ideal acquisition target for larger international rivals SABMiller or Carlsberg, according to London industry analyst Phil Carroll of Shore Capital.

Car rental firm Accident Exchange saw its shares tumble today after slower than expected growth and legal disputes forced the firm into its second profits warning this year.

THREE key issues facing dairy farmers — winter feeding, milk quotas and compliance with the nitrates directive — will be discussed at a farming forum organised by the Irish Examiner during the National Dairy Show at Green Glens in Millstreet tomorrow.