Chinese shares close down 1.72 pct

SHANGHAI, September 18, 2008 - Chinese share prices closed 1.72 percent lower Thursday ending a volatile day where a selloff in banks and insurers deepened on concerns over the turmoil in global markets, dealers said.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index, which covers A and B shares, was down 33.21 points at 1,895.84.

The Shanghai A-share index fell 34.70 points, or 1.71 percent, to 1,900.90 points, while the Shenzhen A-share index lost 13.36 points, or 2.27 percent, to 574.34.

(Agencies)