DAX: 4188.52 (-54.49)

German shares moved off lows as the dollar recaptured the 1.75 deutschmark level. The market was hit earlier by stronger-than-expected US producer price data. The index was up 0.5 per cent in September, higher than the expected 0.2 per cent rise.

CAC-40: 2955.11 (-5.54)

The CAC index fell heavily, touching a day low of 2,906.81, after the US producer price rise hit debt and equity markets.

Mibtel: 15,249 (+174)

Shares changed little during the day, as investors decided not to take positions until the political situation became clearer.