Investors on ATHEX are opting to secure profits, especially in the banking sector, following the index's rise above 1,700 points for the first time in 14 years yesterday. Currently, the General Index stands at 1,698 points, reflecting a 0.4% decline, with a turnover of €102 million and 24 million shares exchanged.

The banking index has recorded a loss of 0.65%, sitting at 1,668 points. Meanwhile, the large-cap FTSE index is down 0.43 at 4,203 points, and the mid-cap FTSEM remains stable at 2,566 points.

During yesterday's trading session, ATHEX celebrated another milestone by reaching the 1,700 points mark. Total transactions soared to €387.6 million, including €126.97 million from 55 block trades. Interestingly, this 14-year high was achieved despite mixed performances among the major banks: Alpha Bank rose by 2.7% and Piraeus Bank by 2.3%, while the National Bank and Eurobank fell by 1.1% and 1.2%, respectively. Smaller banks outperformed, with Optima rising by 3.3%, Attica by 6.95%, and Cyprus Bank by 3.9%, alongside strong buying interest in blue-chip stocks.

Today, however, there are notable declines among the systemic banks, likely reflecting a consolidation of notable gains seen last week in anticipation of a potential investment-grade upgrade by Moody's. Nevertheless, selective buying in blue-chip stocks continues, indicating divergence from the broader market trend.