DAX: 3196.03 (-37.72)

Despite bullish comment from Economics Minister Guenther Rexrodt, German shares fell 1 per cent in bourse trade and continued to drop in later screen based business. The 30-share DAX index ended bourse trade down 37.72 points at 3196.03, while the IBIS DAX index that reflects screen-based business closed down nearly 12 points.

CAC-40: 2575.24 (-19.52)

The Paris Bourse came under profit-taking pressure one day before the end of the February trading month. Analysts said the profit-taking on the Bourse was normal after a rise of more than 6 per cent in four weeks. Investors have been waiting for such a correction before coming back to the Bourse, which now stands 12 per cent above its level at the start of the year.

Mibtel: 12357 (+197)

Italian shares closed higher in a technical rebound after heavy selling in previous helped days. Yesterday's improvement was helped by firmer bonds and the firmer lira.