Frankfurt DAX: 2,988.45 (+39.57)

The Frankfurt stock market powered its way to a new record high having just missed the 3,000 point level during trading. Traders said gains on Wall Street and the strength of the dollar had supported the latest rally. The bond market also chalked up strong gains, and the average yield on government issues dropped by 0.10 of a point to 4.99 per cent.

Paris CAC 40: 2,387.98 (-14.16)

The Paris Bourse suffered a setback due to profit taking as the CAC 40 index gave up 0.59 per cent. The substantial loss came despite the indicator's morning feat of reaching a new all time high of 2,418.93 points. Trading was active, with share volume of eight billion francs. Bourse traders said yesterday's loss was normal following a sharp price run up the previous few days.

Milan Mibtel: 11,878 (-202)

The Milan bourse was whacked by profit taking again yesterday. Volumes were extremely high, with dealers estimating trading at up to 2.6 trillion lire.