November 08, 2006	Wednesday	Shawwal 15, 1427

LONDON, Nov 7: European stocks firmed on Tuesday in cautious trade ahead of mid-term Congressional elections in the United States and after a strong overnight showing on Wall Street, dealers said.

Some 200 million Americans head to the polls later Tuesday in a vote that is likely to shape President George W. Bush's last two years in the White House.

In Europe, a fresh batch of company results were also in focus.

London's FTSE 100 index of leading shares won 0.08 per cent to 6,229.60 points, Frankfurt's DAX 30 index gained 0.13 per cent to 6,338.91 points and in Paris the CAC 40 index added 0.31 per cent to 5,418.99.

The DJ Euro Stoxx 50 index of top eurozone shares increased 0.30 per cent to 4,057.45 points.

Wall Street stocks had vaulted higher Monday, the eve of US elections, as corporate takeover news boosted sentiment and prompted a strong rebound from a sell off last week.

On Monday, London's prestigious FTSE 100 index had struck a fresh five-year peak as mining shares soared in line with surging metal prices. The FTSE had finished at 6,224.50 points -- the highest close since February 13, 2001.—AFP