Equities traded higher early Thursday, led by strong banks and refiners. European shares opened higher, eyeing US CPI data. Analysts argue that the September CPI announcement in the afternoon hours will determine the trend of the day. 

At 1041 local time, the general share index was gaining 1.7% to 1196 points. Banks were the frontrunners for another session, with gains of 2%. 

Among banks, NBG added 2.3%, Alpha +2.1%, Eurobank +1.8%, Piraeus +1.4%.  

Away from financials, refiners had a strong showing, with Helleniq Energy gaining 3.4%, Motor Oil +3%. Also Mytlineos rose 4.2%, Titan +4.1%.