Markets round-up: Markets go on Fed watch

Speculation on the depth of the cut in US interest rates dominated world equity markets today

Speculation on the depth of the cut in US interest rates dominated world equity markets today. At the close of business the ISEQ moved 46 points higher at 5,447.

Eircom was lifted by improved sentiment in the telecom sector to gain 8 cents to euro 2.42. AIB moved 7 cents higher at 11.20. CRH was also stronger, uip 20 cents to euro 17.55.

Kingspan reported strong annual results was upbeat about its prospects this year, however the shre price fell 40 cents to euro 3.90 in profit taking.

Leading shares closed stronger today, at their best levels for the day after a positive session.

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A rally by technology, media and telecoms issues drove the wider market recovery today, spurred by a return of bargain hunting interest in the sub-sector in line with Nasdaq's rally.

British Telecom managed to hold a 4.5 per cent advance despite calling off its investors' meeting scheduled for Tuesday evening. Investors were expected to put pressure on BT to give up on plans to float its mobile phone business. Colt Telecom was up 4.8 per cent.