Frankfurt DAX: 2524.18 (-14.20)

The German share market made a brief run to new all time highs in early trading but slid to end the day in negative territory on a wave of futures led selling. The IBIS DAX index - which reflects after hours trading and which set a record high of 2559.60 points in early morning computer trade - tumbled nearly 40 points off the high to end the afternoon at 2519.82, down over 1 per cent on the day.

Paris CAC-40: 2075.12 (-22.22)

French shares fell sharply as the market consolidated after failing to break the 2100 barrier, with a weaker bond market also eroding support.

Milan Mibtel: 9695 (-85)

Italian shares slipped lower in cautious trading ahead of the weekend general election and the expiry of options on tomorrow, while domestic bonds and the lira also eased back throughout the day. Analysts said Italian financial markets have taken a big bet that there will be a clear outcome to the general election.