The Irish market clocked in a dull day yesterday, saved only by one shining star - AIB. The share went against the downward trend among the financials, boosted by the upgrading of its rating by Moody's.

The gilt market continued to weaken, affected by renewed uncertainty over the currency generated by the reports that Goldman Sachs will go negative on the currency in a forthcoming detailed analysis of EMU.

In Britain, shares shrugged off early nervousness triggered mostly by a weak showing from global bonds. Dealers focused on the latest flurry of takeover rumours instead.