The Athens Stock Exchange is trying to put a brake on the two-day downward streak today (18/12), with buyers regaining the "reins", with the help of banks.

Specifically, in the third session of the week, the General Index recorded a cautious increase of 0.35% to 1,457.95 points, gaining five points compared to Tuesday's close (1,452.80 points).

The arc of daily fluctuations extends five points (from 1,453.80 to 1,458.23 points), with trading turnover hovering at 3 million in the first 10 minutes.

The banking index, after the recent pressure from the extraordinary measures on commissions, is attempting to regain its upward momentum and is now at +0.89% and 1,283 points.i

NBG's share is up +1.29% and 7.698 euros, Piraeus' share follows at +1.27% and 3.895 euros, Alpha's share trades +0.66% and 1.5955 euros, while Eurobank's share rises +0.64% and 2.209 euros.

In the high-cap index (+0.47% and 3,548 points), Motor Oil's shares expand +1.2% and 20.5 euros, with shares of OPAP and Viohalco gaining up to 0.9%. On the flip side, Coca - Cola shares retreat by 1% and "fall" below 33 euros. Shares of Cenergy and Ellaktor lose 0.7% and 0.9%, respectively.

As for the mid-cap index (+0.10% and 2,324 points), Kri - Kri shares stand out positively at +1% and 15 euros, while shares of EXAE, Quest and Profile climb up to +1.4%. On the other hand, Intralot's shares are down 1% to EUR 0.97. Ideal, Intrakat and PPA fold by up to 0.8%.