Mixed day for banks

THE Irish market continued Tuesday's fall yesterday with a 12.67 point drop to close at 4339.17

The banks were weaker overall, as Allied Irish Bank lost 15c to €13.60 following fears over earnings sparked by British peers. Anglo Irish Bank fell 5c to €6.65 along with First Active also off 5c at €5.35. Positive was Bank of Ireland, adding 20c to €10.95.

The Irish banks have under-performed the British and other European banks by 6.3% and 7.8% respectively since the start of November. Overall the ISEQ financial index was €9.07 points firmer at 8632.86.