Utilities shares gave the Bermuda Stock Exchange a lift today.

One Communications rose 32.2 per cent as 13,000 of its shares changed hands. The telecommunications group gained 68 cents to close on $2.79.

Ascendant Group, owner of power provider Belco, climbed 11 cents, or 1.2 per cent, to close the day on $9, as 3,000 shares traded.

Butterfield Bank did not trade in Bermuda, but its New York Stock Exchange-listed shares gained 27 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to close on $32.69.

The Royal Gazette/BSX Index climbed 10.4 points, or 0.5 per cent, to close on 1,982.96. Trading volume was 16,000 shares and turnover was $62,870.

The BSX Insurance Index gained 3.65 points, or 0.2 per cent, to end the day on 1,884.16.