DAX:2535.52 (+11.34)

The dollar's gains in the wake of the Bundesbank's surprise rate cut lifted the German share market to modest gains. The DAX share index which had languished around 2519 points before the Bundesbank announced its rates decision, took heart and ended the session at 2535.52, up 0.45 per cent. However, prices slipped in late afternoon computer trade, weighed downs by the weaker Wall Street opening and pressure from today's expire of share options on the DTB exchange.

CAC-40:2085.96 (+10.84)

The French market made some good gains following the Bundesbank interest rate cut, but finished off its best level after hitting a resistance level at a CAC of just over 2100. Peugeot Citroen was a heavy faller after announcing a big drop in profits and a cut in the dividend.

Mibtel:9820 (+125)

Italian shares ended near the day's highs after investors put some of pre-election gloom to one side following the Bundesbank rates move.