Around the World's Markets: Frankfurt

SHARES CLOSED sharply higher as a strong opening on Wall Street boosted earlier gains made as a raft of corporate news saw the return of heavy trading after recent thin volumes, dealers said. The Xetra DAX closed at 4,657.86, up 191.68, while the DAX ended the floor session up 137.42 at 4,495.82.

However, dealers warned there could be profit-taking in the morning. The market was led by the banks as rumours regarding a possible Deutsche Bank purchase of Bankers Trust gathered pace during the day.