Frankfurt Dax: 3819.85 (+34.08)

German shares surged in late computer dealings and ended near a record high as the market drew strength from the positive opening on Wall Street and the firmer dollar. But the Dax failed to break through its all-time high at 3836.91 but dealers said the market's upward trend shows no sign of abating in the short-term.

Paris CAC-40: 2944.04 (+85.78)

French shares extended their gains in afternoon trade, boosted by Wall Street, and set a new closing high. Supporting the shares in recent sessions has been the firmer dollar and the US market. But the French market is drawing support from the expected flood of cash the government is expected to hand investors on July 16th when the "Balladur Bond" expires.

Milan MIBTEL: 13477 (+295)

Italian shares perked up in the final hour of trading, lifted by the Wall Street opening and the strength of other international stock markets. Trading had got off to a slow start and the flurry of trading took most operators by surprise.