CAC-40 2698.92 (+32.73)

Bolstered by a buoyant Wall Street and a firm dollar, French shares moved to close at a record level in a high volume. The CAC-40 closed just below a historic high hit earlier in the day of 2,711.12. Volume was strong at Ffr13.2 billion.

Pechinney which reported a 1996 loss of Ffr2.98 billion after trading closed rose 4.25 per cent to Ffr267.10.

DAX: 3,416.78 (+52.61)

Despite concerns about a looming bout of profit-taking after recent market gains, German shares raced ahead again yesterday helped by the strong US market and dollar strength. Car manufacturers benefited from positive responses at the Geneva trade show.

Mibtel: 12,064 (+159)

Italian shares closed mostly firmer but below the day's highs spurred on by a firm lira and a stable futures market. Most blue chips showed healthy gains. Traders said investors took profits as soon and the Mib-30 approached the psychologically sensitive level of 18,000 - it ended up 1.45 per cent at 17,871.