The Iseq index succumbed to the sharp downward momentum evident across global equity markets today, shedding more than 1 per cent to 2,825.75.
There were very few outperformers on a day that saw European stocks close lower for a third straight day, with one Dublin broker explaining that "everything got caught up" in the general sell-off.
The airline sector softened, with low-fares carrier Ryanair retreating by more than 4 per cent, or 14.5 per cent, to just under €3.19. Rival airline Aer Lingus closed about 5.5 per cent off, or four cent, at 68 cent.
There was continued weakness in Smurfit Kappa following on from the release of data last week that showed German containerboard prices declined in June. "The market didn't help either," a broker said. "Any kind of negative news gets compounded by the weaker market." The paper and packaging giant finished 6 per cent lower, or 44 cent, at €6.86.
Kerry was among the handful of stocks to close in positive territory. The food group, which confirmed last week it is in exclusive discussions to acquire Cargill's global flavours business, added about 0.7 per cent, or 20 cent, today to finish at €29.50.
France's CAC 40 Index slid 2 per cent, while the UK's FTSE 100 Index and Germany's DAX Index each retreated 1.6 per cent.
Additional reporting - Bloomberg