DAX: 4148.58 (+46.19)

German shares ended weaker in post-bourse computer trading, stung by a weaker Dow, a further fall by the dollar and a dearth of buying interest, dealers said.

The IBIS DAX closed on 4104.93. Stronger-than-expected US durable goods orders' figures for August sent bond markets lower and weighed on stocks in afternoon trade.

CAC-40: 3005.38 (-18.39)

French shares closed down, but managed to stay above the 3,000 level. Traders said losses on Wall Street and pressure on the dollar undermined the market. Defence industry stocks were among the main risers, despite defence budget cuts announced on Wednesday, ahead of a government decision on the future of state-owned Thomson-CSF.

Mibtel: 15850 (-69)

Italian shares closed slightly weaker after trading in a narrow range with leading shares mixed, as investors awaited the outcome of a crucial government meeting with unions on pension reforms.