Stocks in Athens traded in negative territory early Wednesday in line with Europe’s shares which slid for a third day in a row. Global sentiment falters, as monetary policy seems to remain tight for longer. 

At 1049 local time, the general share index shed 0.5% to 1162 points. 

Bank losses were heavier -1.4%. Brokers fell that the disposal of a 20% stake in National Bank from the country’s bank backstop HFSF sometime in the autumn, will create oversupply risks for the sector. 

Losses were spread across the board, with Cenergy losing 1.9%, PPC -1.8%, 

Also, Optima Bank shares commenced trading today at a starting price of 7.20n euros per share.