German shares shot to record highs as the blue chip DAX index rose over 1 per cent to reach an all time high close on the back of firmer bonds and a steady dollar. The market sailed past a former intra day high in the post bourse session, with the IBIS DAX closing at an historic high of 2486.95 points. The market was spurred to new heights by a partial recovery on Wall Street after a shaky start and further gains backed up by a firm dollar and steadier German debt market.

Paris CAC-40: 1996.89 (+22.37)

French shares finished sharply higher on takeover fever and interest from foreign, mainly American investors. The Paribas bid for Mixte was one catalyst for the heavy trading and, overall, the market closed well bid.

Milan Mibtel: 9691 (+189)

Milan shares rose strongly in late trade to close higher, encouraged by the sharp early rise in Wall Street which helped reinforce the firmer start to, stocks on the back of a reviving lira.