The IBIS DAX index inched to a new all time high in afternoon post bourse trade. The index reached a trading high of 2,582.79 points but closed at 2578.36, up 16.17 points, running out of steam somewhat and trading sideways after reaching the record high. Earlier, the DAX index, which gauges floor trade in 30 blue chip stocks, closed at 2572.96 points, up 6.53 points.

Paris CAC-40 2118.43 (+20.80)

Stocks closed almost 1 per cent higher, buoyed by strong bonds and helped by firmness of both the franc and the dollar. Volume was heavy at 7.97 billion francs, swollen by several big block trades.

Milan Mibtel 10597 (+64)

Italian shares ended firmer on the back of a stronger lira, good buying interest from overseas investors and the expectation of a cut in Italian interest rates next month.

The lira dipped below 1,000 against the deutschmark, its best for almost two years.