Frankfurt Dax: 4391.02 (+112.26)

German shares ended well ahead on the day but below the session's highs, taking heart from the strength of the dollar and the early gains on Wall Street. Dealers said President Clinton's state of the union address also gave some support to the market, as it concentrated on policy. Deutsche Bank recovered from an early fall on news of the drop in operating profits and ended the day 7 per cent higher.

Paris CAC-40: 3088.26 (+36.24)

The French market closed over 1 per cent higher but fell from its early high when it broke through the 3100 barrier. Traders said the move was positive as investors focused on the dollar's strength and President Clinton's confident state of the union address. The dollar's strength was the driving force, and as long as this lasts prices will be underpinned.

Milan MIBTEL: 18609 (+207)

Profit-taking brought Italian share prices back from their earlier highs after a buoyant day when the market was boosted by dollar strength and the firm tone on other markets.