BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - The Swiss stock market got off to a positive start Friday, but pared its gains in early trade before settling into a range. The market managed to hold onto a slight gain.
Traders were encouraged by reports that another round of talks between the United States and China could take place in the near future.
The Swiss Market Index increased by 0.11 percent Friday and finished at 8,970.00. The Swiss Leader Index climbed 0.17 percent and the Swiss Performance Index added 0.20 percent.
The index heavyweights finished with mixed results. Novartis and Nestle advanced 0.2 percent each, while Roche fell 0.5 percent.
The luxury goods companies climbed on hopes for trade talks. Swatch and Richemont finished higher by 0.9 percent each.
Geberit was another notable gainer, with an increase of 0.9 percent.
Credit Suisse climbed 0.4 percent and UBS rose 0.3 percent. Meanwhile, Julius Baer slid 0.1 percent.
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX