Frankfurt DAX: 2504.02 (-0.1)

The Frankfurt bourse nudged up to a record high in early business but then slipped back, with operators wary ahead of three important state elections on Sunday.

The national government junior coalition partner, the Free Democrats (FDP), are struggling to stay in the state parliaments.

Paris CAC-40: 1974.35 (-2.54)

The Paris Bourse suffered a small loss as the CAC-40 index ended down 0.13 per cent by comparison with the Thursday close. Luxury goods group LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, which holds 20 per cent of Guinness, was the star performer. It rose 53 francs to FFr1,235 francs.

Milan Mibtel: 9378 (-78)

The Milan bourse suffered a marked setback due to a weak lira and bond market and to Italian political tensions, traders said.