Frankfurt Dax: 2545.94 (+34.16)

Germany's blue chip DAX index ended trade at a record high close, boosted by a stronger dollar and a positive opening on Wall Street. Investors targeted the main sectors boosted by a stronger dollar - such as export driven car stocks and chemical shares. Reticence ahead of the Bundesbank meeting on Thursday kept volumes moderate, but dealers said they saw little likelihood of a cut in German interest rates this week.

Paris CAC-40: 2080.56 (+5.82)

French shares closed higher but well below the day's high following a bout of profit taking after the April future failed to break a 2100 resistance level. Market conditions were favourable with a firm dollar, a firm franc and stronger bond prices, as well as the strong performance in the opening session on Wall Street.

Milan MIBTEL: 9812 (+13)

Hope that Italy's elections will produce a workable government, and the chance of a quick profit in Italy's ever volatile financial markets propelled the lira, equities and bonds higher.