ATHEX: Benchmark ends week 1.8 pct higher

Most of the Greek stock market's morning gains evaporated in the afternoon in the week's last trading session, but the benchmark was up on the day after ending lower on the previous two. The market is seeking direction as the lack of any substantial news is not helping it move on, according to observers.

The Athens Exchange (ATHEX) general index closed at 820.52 points, adding 0.70 percent to Thursday's 814.81 points. On a weekly basis it increased 1.79 percent.

The large-cap FTSE-26 index expanded 0.71 percent on Friday to 2,167.57 points and mid-caps advanced 0.89 percent.

Banks improved 1.65 percent, with Alpha jumping 3.37 percent and Piraeus ascending 2.86 percent, while Eurobank gave up 0.74 percent.

Lamda Development climbed 5.64 percent to a 39-month high of 6.18 euros, outperforming the other 25 blue chips. It was followed by Piraeus Port Authority ...