Frankfurt Dax: 2714.90 (-13.55)

Shares closed bourse dealings lower as players took profit following record highs reached on Tuesday. Although the dollar came back from levels reached in early European trade, it held above the critical 1.54 deutschmark level, supporting German exporting sectors, particularly chemicals and autos. The DAX index ended down 13.55 points to 2714.90. In post bourse trade the Dax stood at 2705.06.

Paris CAC-40: 2158.52 (-9.76)

French shares fell in the afternoon on opening losses on Wall Street, consolidating after reaching a year high on Tuesday. The blue chip CAC-40 index was down 9.76 points or 0.45 per cent at 2158.52 while the CAC-40 futures contract was down at 2157 from 2 172 on Tuesday's close.

Milan MIBTEL 9826 (-112)

Milan shares drifted downwards throughout the day, reflecting a weaker domestic bond market and a weaker lira while a lower opening on Wall Street saw buying interest from overseas investors largely evaporate.