STOCKS NEWS EUROPE-Cattolica up on strong results

Shares in Italian insurer Cattolica Assicurazioni (CASS.MI) rise nearly 8 percent to a three-week high as a firm set of results prompts Milan broker Mediobanca to raise its 2009 EPS estimate by 15 percent and 2010 by 10 percent.

Nine-month results are "a good set of numbers" with premiums "far above our estimate" due to stronger-than-expected life premiums from the bancassurance sales channel, the broker says in a research note.

Another major Milan broker says Cattolica results are "in line with its estimates confirming the positive profitability trend started by new management ... despite the current challenging scenario."

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