Markets round-up: ISEQ falls as earnings shocks continue
The ISEQ fell sharply this afternoon after another poor start on Wall Street and growing concerns about a foot and mouth outbreak. The benchmark closed 96 points lower at 5,787.
AIB fell 5 cents to euro 11.70, Bank of Ireland shed 14 cents to euro 10.17 while Eircom held on to earlier gains in a recovering TMT sector to add 1 cents to euro 2.34.
Comments by Mr Alan Greenspan that the US economy was stalling led to a weak opening on the New York Stock Exchange. Elan fell euro 1.43 to 59.47.
Food companies came under pressure today as the country battens down the hatches against the threat of foot and mouth. But Glanbia, seen as the most vulnerable stock to an outbreak, recovered from earlier losses to close 2 cents lower at 44 cents.
London shares closed down prompted by Oracle's profit warning yesterday and a slew of downgrades to computer stocks.
Among blue chips, notable fallers included fund manager Schroders, 54p off at £10.18.
Banking issues stayed in focus after the recent merger news Barclays eased back 52p to £21.42.