Paris - Inspired by Wall Street's strong Thursday performance, shares on the Paris Bourse rose sharply on Friday, led by banking stocks.

One hour after opening, the benchmark CAC 40 was up 5.56 per cent, to stand at 4,178.06. On Thursday, the CAC 40 had closed at its lowest mark in more than three years.

The robust gain was led by France's largest retail banking group, Credit Agricole, which was up nearly 23 per cent, at 13.99 euros.

Franco-Belgian bank Dexia rose by 20.45 per cent, to 10.33 euros, and Societe General gained 13.54 per cent, to 63.42 euros. (dpa)