DAX: 2,505.56 (+7.87)

The German shares ended comfortably above the psychologically important 2,500 point level despite some wobbles on Wall Street in late afternoon trade. Shares eased as the US market dipped early on, but both markets recovered by close of business. The market was also lifted by lower than expected business confidence figures from the Munich based research institute Ifo, which fanned hopes of a possible cut in key German interest rates.

CAC 40: 2,007.26 (+12.15)

French stocks finished higher yesterday helped by rising bond prices and a higher close on Wall Street on Wednesday, but nervousness about the US market's volatility capped the bourse's gains.

Mibtel:9940 (+118)

Shares in Milan closed firmer continuing their recovery after sharp losses earlier this week. Helped by the firmer trend on Wall Street and the higher move seen on domestic bonds and the Lira, market sentiment improved.