Frankfurt DAX: 4139.50 (+98.75)

German shares pushed ahead strongly, boosted by the weaker-than-expected domestic money supply figures and the firmer opening on Wall Street.

The market continued its gains in after-hours electronic trading with the IBIS DAX reaching 4161.25. Dealers said that the upward trend remained intact and saw a DAX level of 4300 as a realistic target.

Paris CAC-40: 2989.09 (+43.18)

French shares moved higher, lifted by the strong Wall Street opening, dollar gains and strong performances from some of the Paris market's blue-chip stocks. France Telecom once again held the spotlight and closed 1.7 per cent higher after the 13.5 per cent gain on its first day's trading on Monday.

Milan Mibtel: 16023 (+222)

Italian shares followed the upward trend, underpinned by the rise in New York and the stronger dollar. Bank of Italy governor Mr Antonio Fazio's statement that interest rates will only come down once inflation prospects improve failed to take the wind out of the market sails.