Market Report:DCC was the star performer yesterday in a Dublin market that was generally sluggish. The index ended fractionally weaker on a day that other markets were generally slightly stronger.
DCC rose steadily through the day following media reports of the sale of a €40 million site in Dublin. The price, though forecast by the company, was ahead of expectations in the market. DCC officially ended the day 80 cent, or 3.29 per cent, firmer on €25.10, although the stock gave up some of those gains in late trading.
Activity in the banks was unexceptional with AIB, Bank of Ireland and Anglo all surrendering a little ground as investors tread water ahead of AIB results early next month. AIB was six cent off on €17.75, Bank of Ireland slipped 12 cent to €17.50 and Anglo ended the day on €16.08, down seven cent.
Permanent TSB again moved against the sectoral trend, adding 10 cent to close on €21.60.
Among the airlines, Ryanair again traded in a fairly wide range - between €11.78 and €12.10 - before settling at €12.05 in continuing strong volumes. Traders said the stock was benefiting from well-received numbers earlier this week as well as an improving outlook for oil.
Aer Lingus went the other way, giving up some of the Tuesday's gains on the back of the announcement of the alliance with US carrier JetBlue. Aer Lingus ended the session on €2.88, down four cent, although the bulk of the day's business took place around the €2.91 mark.
Elsewhere, investors took a little profit in CRH following its recent strong run on the back of positive news within its peer group. The shares ended the session on €31.55, down 20 cent.
In the same area, Grafton put in a strong performance to close 23 cent stronger at €12.66.
