Frankfurt DAX: 3460.37 (+22.30)

German shares closed at record levels yesterday, boosted by softer-than-expected non-farm payroll data released from the US in the afternoon, and the positive reaction on Wall Street that followed it.

Trading volumes remained thin after Thursday's May Day bank holiday, but dealers say the market is poised for more gains on higher volumes next week.

Paris CAC-40: 2655.31 (+15.85)

French shares closed only slightly higher yesterday, after what dealers said was a lacklustre and mixed trading session.

The market had started with gains ahead of the publication of the US payroll data, and enjoyed a fillip when the numbers came through, but quickly ran out of steam in the afternoon.

Milan Mibtel: 12354 (+77)

In Milan, shares were slightly firmer in thin early trade, then woke up somewhat during the afternoon following the release of the US data. Dealers said many players had "abridged" the day, making a four-day weekend from Thursday's bank holiday.