Frankfurt Dax: 2428.28 (+9.27)

German shares stayed ahead in post bourse trading in spite of the dollar's continuing weakness against the deutschmark. Fears of a major correction in the face of a sliding dollar were offset by a rebound in the market for bunds. The main event to take place today is expected to be provisional results from the pharmaceutical company, Schering. Analysts are forecasting that Schering will hold its dividend at its current level or increase it slightly.

Paris CAC-40: 1988.47 (+2.88)

French shares closed higher after having spent much of the day in negative territory. Gains on Wall Street and a recovery in bonds helped the market to move, to a marginal gain.

Milan Mibtel: 9993 (+4)

The Milan market closed mixed after a lacklustre session. Early losses were countered by some short covering as traders squared their positions after the market failed to fall as much as had been expected.