DUBLIN REPORT: Iseq: 2,675.93 (+39.51) Settlement Date: July 20th

THE ISEQ continued its gains of recent days, finishing the session 1.5 per cent higher to close at 2,675.93.

The Dublin market reflected the upward trajectory of its European peers, which all finished higher, boosted by positive company results, in particular Intel’s overnight second-quarter results which beat forecasts.

The main banks were the strongest performers on the Iseq, mirroring the upward movement of British banking shares, as bank stocks continued to feel the effect of Goldman Sachs’ announcement of a second quarter profit on Tuesday.

AIBfinished the day 15.78 per cent higher at €1.84. Bank of Irelandwas up just over 14 per cent to close at €1.70. Irish Life & Permanentalso ended the day in positive territory but made more modest gains than the two bigger banks, ending the day at €3.10, a rise of 3.33 per cent.

Biotech group Elanadvanced by 18 cent to end the day at €4.89 ahead of this morning's agm in Dublin.

DCCalso registered gains, closing up 43 cent – a gain of 3.8 per cent – at €14.75, as investors looked forward to its agm tomorrow. Drinks company C&Clost 5 cent to close at €1.90, reversing the previous day's rally as investors continued to respond to the disclosure of erroneous information in the company's trading update last week.

Construction-related companies fell in value. Iseq heavyweight CRHlost 45 cent during the day, to finish the session on €15.69. Insulation-maker Kingspanalso registered a loss, falling 1 cent to end at €4.30.

Generally, the market showed little sign of the typical mid-summer lull. Volumes were relatively robust as investors continued to respond to results from the US as it enters the peak of its second-quarter earnings season.