The value of equity trading on the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE) increased by 26.2 per cent to over €10 billion during the first three months of the year, with the value of locally quoted companies rising by 20.9.

Data released by the ISE shows the value of trades was up 26.2 per cent on the previous quarter and broadly similar to the first quarter of 2011. The market capitalisation of Iseq-quoted companies was €105 billion at the end of March.

Reflecting the impact of the bond exchange programme of the National Treasury Management Agency, turnover in Government bonds and treasury bills exceeded €25 billion in the first quarter, up 46.5 per cent on the previous quarter. Turnover and average daily turnover have doubled this year compared to last.