The BSE benchmark <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-tanks-over-500-points-after-rbi-policy-outcome-financial-stocks-drag-224917">Sensex</a> plunged 554 points Thursday, dragged down by losses in banking, energy and capital goods stocks even as the RBI cut the policy rate to shore up growth.

Slashing benchmark lending rate for the third time this year, the central bank cut the repo rate by 0.25 per cent and changed its monetary policy stance from 'neutral' to 'accommodative'.

The RBI, however, lowered the economic growth forecast for the current fiscal to 7 per cent due to slow down in domestic activities and escalation in a global trade war. Following the announcement, the 30-share index cracked 553.82 points, or 1.38 per cent, to settle at 39,529.72. The bourse hit an intra-day low of 39,481.15 and a high of 40,159.26.

In similar movement, the NSE Nifty plunged 177.90 points, or 1.48 per cent, to end at 11,843.75. During the day, it hit a low of 11,830.25 and high of 12,039.80. Top losers in the Sensex pack included IndusInd Bank, Yes Bank, SBI, L&amp;T, Tata Steel, M&amp;M, Bajaj Finance, Vedanta, Tata Motors and RIL, tumbling up to 6.97 per cent.

Bucking the negative market trend, Coal India, PowerGrid, NTPC, HUL, Hero MotoCorp, Asian Paints and Infosys gained up to 1.92 per cent.

"The rate cut could not infuse positivity, and the decline steepened as focus shifted from policy rates to new emerging short-term tight liquidity situation due to issues like IL&amp;FS, DHFL and its impending impact on other financial institutions if any," said Narendra Solanki, Head-Fundamental Research (Investment Services) - AVP Equity Research, Anand Rathi Shares &amp; Stock Brokers.

Lowered GDP forecast for the current year and failure to get any cue from RBI on the liquidity front except general assurance of addressing the situation added to the selling pressure later in the day, he added. The Indian rupee fell marginally to 69.28 against the US dollar.

Meanwhile, other Asian bourses ended on a mixed note, while Europe was trading in the green in opening deals. 
Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.76 per cent to 61.09 per barrel.&nbsp;

The BSE benchmark Sensex plunged 554 points Thursday, dragged down by losses in banking, energy and capital goods stocks even as the RBI cut the policy rate to shore up growth.

The BSE benchmark Sensex plunged 554 points Thursday, dragged down by losses in banking, energy and capital goods stocks even as the RBI cut the policy rate to shore up growth. Slashing benchmark lending rate for the third time this year, the central bank cut the repo rate by 0.25 per cent and changed its monetary policy stance from 'neutral' to 'accommodative'. The RBI, however, lowered the economic growth forecast for the current fiscal to 7 per cent due to slow down in domestic activities and escalation in a global trade war. Following the announcement, the 30-share index cracked 553.82 points, or 1.38 per cent, to settle at 39,529.72. The bourse hit an intra-day low of 39,481.15 and a high of 40,159.26. In similar movement, the NSE Nifty plunged 177.90 points, or 1.48 per cent, to end at 11,843.75. During the day, it hit a low of 11,830.25 and high of 12,039.80. Top losers in the Sensex pack included IndusInd Bank, Yes Bank, SBI, L&T, Tata Steel, M&M, Bajaj Finance, Vedanta, Tata Motors and RIL, tumbling up to 6.97 per cent. Bucking the negative market trend, Coal India, PowerGrid, NTPC, HUL, Hero MotoCorp, Asian Paints and Infosys gained up to 1.92 per cent. "The rate cut could not infuse positivity, and the decline steepened as focus shifted from policy rates to new emerging short-term tight liquidity situation due to issues like IL&FS, DHFL and its impending impact on other financial institutions if any," said Narendra Solanki, Head-Fundamental Research (Investment Services) - AVP Equity Research, Anand Rathi Shares & Stock Brokers. Lowered GDP forecast for the current year and failure to get any cue from RBI on the liquidity front except general assurance of addressing the situation added to the selling pressure later in the day, he added. The Indian rupee fell marginally to 69.28 against the US dollar. Meanwhile, other Asian bourses ended on a mixed note, while Europe was trading in the green in opening deals. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.76 per cent to 61.09 per barrel.

Sensex dives 554 points despite RBI rate cut; financial stocks crack

The BSE benchmark Sensex scaled a fresh high of&nbsp;39,017 in the morning session of trade,&nbsp;driven by sustained buying mainly in metal, auto and financial stocks amid positive global cues.&nbsp;

On the Sensex chart, Vedanta, Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Mahindra and Mahindra and ICICI Bank led the rally.

The broader NSE Nifty was higher by 88&nbsp;points at 11,712&nbsp;in early deals.

The 30-share Sensex opened on a positive note at 38,858.88 and rose to a high of 39,017&nbsp;in early deals. The gauge, however, pared some gains and was trading at 38,956.41, higher by 283.50&nbsp;points.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty started off on a high note at 11,665.20 and hit a high of 11,712&nbsp;in opening deals.

In Asia, South Korea's KOSPI rose 1 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained more than 2 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index climbed 1.62 per cent.

China and the US gave signs of some progress in their last week's discussions on the trade tariff tussle, with another round of talks scheduled to be held this week in Washington.

The BSE Sensex had risen over 127 points to close at 38,672.91 on Friday -- the last trading day of fiscal 2018-19 during which the benchmark posted a rise of 17.30 per cent.

The broader NSE Nifty closed at 11,623.90, capping off the financial year with a gain of 14.93 per cent.

Investors' wealth zoomed Rs 8.83 lakh crore during 2018-19, with the market capitalisation (m-cap) of BSE-listed companies reaching Rs 1,51,08,711.01 crore.

(With inputs from PTI)

The BSE benchmark Sensex scaled a fresh high of 39,017 in the morning session of trade, driven by sustained buying mainly in metal, auto and financial stocks amid positive global cues.

The BSE benchmark Sensex scaled a fresh high of 39,017 in the morning session of trade, driven by sustained buying mainly in metal, auto and financial stocks amid positive global cues. On the Sensex chart, Vedanta, Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Mahindra and Mahindra and ICICI Bank led the rally. The broader NSE Nifty was higher by 88 points at 11,712 in early deals. The 30-share Sensex opened on a positive note at 38,858.88 and rose to a high of 39,017 in early deals. The gauge, however, pared some gains and was trading at 38,956.41, higher by 283.50 points. Similarly, the NSE Nifty started off on a high note at 11,665.20 and hit a high of 11,712 in opening deals. In Asia, South Korea's KOSPI rose 1 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained more than 2 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index climbed 1.62 per cent. China and the US gave signs of some progress in their last week's discussions on the trade tariff tussle, with another round of talks scheduled to be held this week in Washington. The BSE Sensex had risen over 127 points to close at 38,672.91 on Friday -- the last trading day of fiscal 2018-19 during which the benchmark posted a rise of 17.30 per cent. The broader NSE Nifty closed at 11,623.90, capping off the financial year with a gain of 14.93 per cent. Investors' wealth zoomed Rs 8.83 lakh crore during 2018-19, with the market capitalisation (m-cap) of BSE-listed companies reaching Rs 1,51,08,711.01 crore. (With inputs from PTI)

Sensex scales fresh high of 39,017, Nifty higher by 88 points at 11,712

Snapping its eight-day winning streak, the BSE benchmark Sensex tumbled over 222 points Friday as investors scrambled to book profits after the recent rally while ratings agency Fitch slashed India's growth forecast.

Lacklustre global cues and a depreciating rupee also weighed on the markets, analysts said.

The 30-share index opened on a positive note at 38,452.47, but soon succumbed to heavy selling pressure, touching an intra-day low of 38,089.36. It finally closed at 38,164.61, down by 222.14 points, or 0.58 per cent.

On similar lines, the NSE Nifty shed 64.15 points, or 0.56 per cent, to finish at 11,456.90.

On a weekly basis, the Sensex added over 140 points, while the wider Nifty gained 30 points.

Fitch Ratings Friday cut India's GDP growth forecast for the next fiscal to 6.8 per cent from 7 per cent estimated earlier on weaker than expected economic momentum.

In its latest Global Economic Outlook, Fitch also slashed GDP growth forecast for current fiscal ending March 2019 to 6.9 per cent from 7.2 per cent projected in the December edition.

Tata Motors was the biggest loser in the Sensex pack, tumbling 2.47 per cent, followed by Reliance Industries (2.44 per cent), Maruti (1.84 per cent), SBI (1.76 per cent) and Bajaj Finance (1.23 per cent).

NTPC emerged as the biggest gainer in the index, spurting 3.67 per cent. Other winners included L&amp;T, Asian Paints, Tata Steel and PowerGrid, rising up to 1.54 per cent.

Snapping its eight-day winning streak, the BSE benchmark Sensex tumbled over 222 points Friday as investors scrambled to book profits after the recent rally while ratings agency Fitch slashed India's growth forecast.

Snapping its eight-day winning streak, the BSE benchmark Sensex tumbled over 222 points Friday as investors scrambled to book profits after the recent rally while ratings agency Fitch slashed India's growth forecast. Lacklustre global cues and a depreciating rupee also weighed on the markets, analysts said. The 30-share index opened on a positive note at 38,452.47, but soon succumbed to heavy selling pressure, touching an intra-day low of 38,089.36. It finally closed at 38,164.61, down by 222.14 points, or 0.58 per cent. On similar lines, the NSE Nifty shed 64.15 points, or 0.56 per cent, to finish at 11,456.90. On a weekly basis, the Sensex added over 140 points, while the wider Nifty gained 30 points. Fitch Ratings Friday cut India's GDP growth forecast for the next fiscal to 6.8 per cent from 7 per cent estimated earlier on weaker than expected economic momentum. In its latest Global Economic Outlook, Fitch also slashed GDP growth forecast for current fiscal ending March 2019 to 6.9 per cent from 7.2 per cent projected in the December edition. Tata Motors was the biggest loser in the Sensex pack, tumbling 2.47 per cent, followed by Reliance Industries (2.44 per cent), Maruti (1.84 per cent), SBI (1.76 per cent) and Bajaj Finance (1.23 per cent). NTPC emerged as the biggest gainer in the index, spurting 3.67 per cent. Other winners included L&T, Asian Paints, Tata Steel and PowerGrid, rising up to 1.54 per cent.

Sensex snaps 8-day winning run on profit-booking; logs weekly gain

BSE benchmark Sensex jumped over 150 points in early trade Thursday on sustained buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors, ahead of RBI's policy outcome later in the day.

The 30-share index was trading 161.53 points, or 0.44 per cent, higher at 37,136.76.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 33.05 points, or 0.30 per cent to 11,095.50.

On Wednesday, the Sensex soared 358.42 points, or 0.98 per cent, to close at 36,975.23; and the broader Nifty jumped 128.10 points, or 1.17 per cent, to 11,062.45.

According to traders, domestic investors remained bullish tracking sustained inflow from domestic and foreign funds, amid hopes that the RBI may change its policy stance to 'neutral' from 'calibrated tightening' on low inflation footprint, even as a rate cut was ruled out by many experts.

The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is scheduled to announce its policy decision later in the day.

"Central banks in Asian markets from India to Indonesia are expected to halt interest rate hikes and possibly signal rate cuts as falling inflation and US Fed's decision to put break on tightening interest rate cycle has left enough room for interest rate cuts," said Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management.

"Decline in rates will reduce the cost of capital and potentially fuel rally in equity markets," he stated.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 694.97 crore Wednesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 525.26 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

In the morning session, Sun Pharma, Bajaj Auto, HCL Tech, Tata Motors, M&amp;M, Yes Bank, Maruti and Hero MotoCorp were the top gainers, rising up to 2.64 per cent.

On the other hand, Tata Steel, HDFC, Bharti Airtel and Vedanta fell up to 0.51 per cent.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei fell 0.75 per cent, while Korea's Kospi rose 0.35 per cent. Bourses in China were closed for Lunar New Year break. 
On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.08 per cent lower on Wednesday.

The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 10 paise against US dollar to 71.66. 
The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.27 per cent to USD 62.52 per barrel.&nbsp;

BSE benchmark Sensex jumped over 150 points in early trade Thursday on sustained buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors, ahead of RBI's policy outcome later in the day.

BSE benchmark Sensex jumped over 150 points in early trade Thursday on sustained buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors, ahead of RBI's policy outcome later in the day. The 30-share index was trading 161.53 points, or 0.44 per cent, higher at 37,136.76. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 33.05 points, or 0.30 per cent to 11,095.50. On Wednesday, the Sensex soared 358.42 points, or 0.98 per cent, to close at 36,975.23; and the broader Nifty jumped 128.10 points, or 1.17 per cent, to 11,062.45. According to traders, domestic investors remained bullish tracking sustained inflow from domestic and foreign funds, amid hopes that the RBI may change its policy stance to 'neutral' from 'calibrated tightening' on low inflation footprint, even as a rate cut was ruled out by many experts. The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is scheduled to announce its policy decision later in the day. "Central banks in Asian markets from India to Indonesia are expected to halt interest rate hikes and possibly signal rate cuts as falling inflation and US Fed's decision to put break on tightening interest rate cycle has left enough room for interest rate cuts," said Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management. "Decline in rates will reduce the cost of capital and potentially fuel rally in equity markets," he stated. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 694.97 crore Wednesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 525.26 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. In the morning session, Sun Pharma, Bajaj Auto, HCL Tech, Tata Motors, M&M, Yes Bank, Maruti and Hero MotoCorp were the top gainers, rising up to 2.64 per cent. On the other hand, Tata Steel, HDFC, Bharti Airtel and Vedanta fell up to 0.51 per cent. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei fell 0.75 per cent, while Korea's Kospi rose 0.35 per cent. Bourses in China were closed for Lunar New Year break. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.08 per cent lower on Wednesday. The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 10 paise against US dollar to 71.66. The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.27 per cent to USD 62.52 per barrel.

Sensex jumps 150 points ahead of RBI policy outcome

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday jumped over 100 points ahead of the Budget presentation by Finance Minister Piyush Goyal amid heavy buying by foreign portfolio investors.

The 30-share index was trading 119.01 points, or 0.33 per cent, higher at 36,375.70.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 34.15, or 0.32 per cent, to 10,865.10.

On Thursday, the 30-share Sensex rallied 665.44 points, or 1.87 per cent, to close at 36,256.69; and the broader Nifty soared 179.15 points, or 1.68 per cent, to 10,830.95.

Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Hero MotoCorp, HCL Tech, Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, Infosys, HDFC, HUL, M&amp;M, L&amp;T, ITC and Maruti, rising up to 2.91 per cent.

Vedanta was the biggest loser on Sensex, cracking over 18 per cent after the metals and mining giant Thursday reported a 25.54 per cent decline in consolidated net profit at Rs 1,574 crore for the December 2018 quarter, on the back of higher expenses and drop in commodity prices.

Other losers include PowerGrid, ONGC, Axis Bank, Kotak Bank and Sun Pharma, shedding up to 1.14 per cent.

According to Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas, the government might look to boost the rural and agri sector ahead of the general election.&nbsp;

"Expect the government to go in for a populist Budget; however, market participants will closely weigh in the risk of a higher fiscal deficit and its impact on the market," he said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is classic macroeconomic theory to expect the government to come forward with fiscal stimulus during times of economic weakness, said Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management.

A looming election and aggressive opposition only adds to the pressure to deliver a meaningful relief package, he said; adding that, should the Budget disappoint, investors' attention is likely to revert to concerns centered around slowing growth and elections. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 3,006.41 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 1,634.32 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Domestic market, however, will continue to be volatile ahead of the interim budget which will be announced on Friday, traders said.

Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 0.77 per cent, Kospi gained 0.22 per cent, and Japan's Nikkei was up 0.24 per cent; while, Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.21 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average marginally lower at 24,999.67 on Thursday.

The rupee, meanwhile, was depreciated by 8 paise against US dollar to 71.16.

The benchmark Brent crude futures were flat at USD 60.86 per barrel.&nbsp;

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday jumped over 100 points ahead of the Budget presentation by Finance Minister Piyush Goyal amid heavy buying by foreign portfolio investors.

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday jumped over 100 points ahead of the Budget presentation by Finance Minister Piyush Goyal amid heavy buying by foreign portfolio investors. The 30-share index was trading 119.01 points, or 0.33 per cent, higher at 36,375.70. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 34.15, or 0.32 per cent, to 10,865.10. On Thursday, the 30-share Sensex rallied 665.44 points, or 1.87 per cent, to close at 36,256.69; and the broader Nifty soared 179.15 points, or 1.68 per cent, to 10,830.95. Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Hero MotoCorp, HCL Tech, Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, Infosys, HDFC, HUL, M&M, L&T, ITC and Maruti, rising up to 2.91 per cent. Vedanta was the biggest loser on Sensex, cracking over 18 per cent after the metals and mining giant Thursday reported a 25.54 per cent decline in consolidated net profit at Rs 1,574 crore for the December 2018 quarter, on the back of higher expenses and drop in commodity prices. Other losers include PowerGrid, ONGC, Axis Bank, Kotak Bank and Sun Pharma, shedding up to 1.14 per cent. According to Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas, the government might look to boost the rural and agri sector ahead of the general election. "Expect the government to go in for a populist Budget; however, market participants will closely weigh in the risk of a higher fiscal deficit and its impact on the market," he said. It is classic macroeconomic theory to expect the government to come forward with fiscal stimulus during times of economic weakness, said Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management. A looming election and aggressive opposition only adds to the pressure to deliver a meaningful relief package, he said; adding that, should the Budget disappoint, investors' attention is likely to revert to concerns centered around slowing growth and elections. Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 3,006.41 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 1,634.32 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Domestic market, however, will continue to be volatile ahead of the interim budget which will be announced on Friday, traders said. Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 0.77 per cent, Kospi gained 0.22 per cent, and Japan's Nikkei was up 0.24 per cent; while, Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.21 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average marginally lower at 24,999.67 on Thursday. The rupee, meanwhile, was depreciated by 8 paise against US dollar to 71.16. The benchmark Brent crude futures were flat at USD 60.86 per barrel.

Sensex jumps over 100 points ahead of Budget 2019

The BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday rallied over 200 points on positive cues from global markets after dovish comments by the US Federal Reserve as it left key policy rates unchanged.

The 30-share index was trading 213.32 points, or 0.60 per cent, higher at 35,804.57.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty jumped 53.95 points, or 0.51 per cent, to 10,705.75.

On Wednesday, the Sensex ended marginally lower by 1.25 points and the Nifty closed with a negligible loss of 0.4 point.

Top gainers in the Sensex pack include ICICI Bank, RIL, Tata Steel, SBI, Tata Motors, NTPC, Vedanta and TCS, rallying up to 2.20 per cent.

On the other hand, Bajaj Finance, Yes Bank, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto, HDFC duo and HCL Tech were the top losers, falling up to 1.59 per cent.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 130.25 crore Wednesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 502.26 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

According to experts, investor sentiment was buoyed by dovish comments by from the US Federal Reserve after it left the key US lending rate unchanged on Wednesday.

The central bank said it would be "patient" about making any further changes, in the clearest signal yet the central bank has heeded concerns about the economy.

Global investors were also optimistic about the ongoing two-day high-level talks between the US and China aimed at settling a six-month trade war that has weakened both sides, shaken financial markets and clouded the outlook for the global economy.

Domestic market, however, will continue to be volatile ahead of the interim budget which will be announced on Friday, traders said.

January series derivatives expiry in this session will also keep investors on edge, they added.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 1.27 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index was up 0.63 per cent, Kospi gained 0.18 per cent, and Japan's Nikkei rallied 0.90 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average soared 1.77 per cent on Wednesday.

The rupee, meanwhile, was appreciated 18 paise against US dollar to 70.93. 
The benchmark Brent crude futures rose 1.01 per cent to USD 62.16 per barrel.&nbsp;

The BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday rallied over 200 points on positive cues from global markets after dovish comments by the US Federal Reserve as it left key policy rates unchanged.

The BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday rallied over 200 points on positive cues from global markets after dovish comments by the US Federal Reserve as it left key policy rates unchanged. The 30-share index was trading 213.32 points, or 0.60 per cent, higher at 35,804.57. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty jumped 53.95 points, or 0.51 per cent, to 10,705.75. On Wednesday, the Sensex ended marginally lower by 1.25 points and the Nifty closed with a negligible loss of 0.4 point. Top gainers in the Sensex pack include ICICI Bank, RIL, Tata Steel, SBI, Tata Motors, NTPC, Vedanta and TCS, rallying up to 2.20 per cent. On the other hand, Bajaj Finance, Yes Bank, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto, HDFC duo and HCL Tech were the top losers, falling up to 1.59 per cent. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 130.25 crore Wednesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 502.26 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. According to experts, investor sentiment was buoyed by dovish comments by from the US Federal Reserve after it left the key US lending rate unchanged on Wednesday. The central bank said it would be "patient" about making any further changes, in the clearest signal yet the central bank has heeded concerns about the economy. Global investors were also optimistic about the ongoing two-day high-level talks between the US and China aimed at settling a six-month trade war that has weakened both sides, shaken financial markets and clouded the outlook for the global economy. Domestic market, however, will continue to be volatile ahead of the interim budget which will be announced on Friday, traders said. January series derivatives expiry in this session will also keep investors on edge, they added. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 1.27 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index was up 0.63 per cent, Kospi gained 0.18 per cent, and Japan's Nikkei rallied 0.90 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average soared 1.77 per cent on Wednesday. The rupee, meanwhile, was appreciated 18 paise against US dollar to 70.93. The benchmark Brent crude futures rose 1.01 per cent to USD 62.16 per barrel.

Sensex jumps over 200 points on firm global cues

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fpis-infuse-rs-4000-cr-in-3-weeks-on-strengthening-rupee-easing-crude-prices-185952">rupee</a> gained 8 paise against the US dollar Monday to trade at 70.10 in on selling of the US currency by exporters and banks.

The dollar was weak against major currencies in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/global-markets-stocks-dip-ahead-of-federal-news-oil-prices-drop-185217">global markets</a> which supported the local currency, a currency dealer said, but the choppy trend at the stock exchanges limited the gains.

The rupee opened a shade lower at 70.19 a dollar against the previous close of 70.18 a dollar. It moved in a range of 70.21 to 70.12 a dollar in early trade before quoting at 70.10, showing a gain of 8 paise.

On Friday, the rupee snapped its four-day rising streak by falling 48 paise to close at 70.18 against the US currency due to month-end dollar demand and sharp losses in domestic equities.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell by 34.30 points, or 0.11 per cent to 35,703 in early choppy trade Monday after rising to 35,872.02.

The rupee gained 8 paise against the US dollar Monday to trade at 70.10 in on selling of the US currency by exporters and banks. The dollar was weak against major currencies in global markets which supported the local currency, a currency dealer said, but the choppy trend at the stock exchanges limited the gains.

The rupee gained 8 paise against the US dollar Monday to trade at 70.10 in on selling of the US currency by exporters and banks. The dollar was weak against major currencies in global markets which supported the local currency, a currency dealer said, but the choppy trend at the stock exchanges limited the gains. The rupee opened a shade lower at 70.19 a dollar against the previous close of 70.18 a dollar. It moved in a range of 70.21 to 70.12 a dollar in early trade before quoting at 70.10, showing a gain of 8 paise. On Friday, the rupee snapped its four-day rising streak by falling 48 paise to close at 70.18 against the US currency due to month-end dollar demand and sharp losses in domestic equities. Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell by 34.30 points, or 0.11 per cent to 35,703 in early choppy trade Monday after rising to 35,872.02.

Rupee gains 8 paise against dollar

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-choppy-amid-weak-global-cues-186088">BSE benchmark Sensex</a> extended its losses for the second session Monday in the holiday-shortened week by declining 272 points on heavy selling in realty, consumer durables, metal and auto counters amid weak global cues as political uncertainties in the US dampened sentiment.

After rising briefly to 35,910.67 at the outset, the 30-share quickly slipped into the negative terrain in line with a weak trend at other Asian markets and touched a low of 35,423.24 before ending at 35,470.15, down by 271.92 points, or 0.76 per cent.&nbsp;

The gauge had plunged 572.04 points Friday.

Also, the broader NSE Nifty, after shuttling between 10,649.25 and 10,782.30 points, finally settled 90.50 points, or 0.84 per cent lower at 10,663.50.

Stock exchanges will remain closed Tuesday on account of Christmas.

According to experts, global equities were subdued as a partial US government shutdown that entered was set to stretch through Christmas, after Congress adjourned for the weekend with no deal in sight to end an impasse over funding for President Donald Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border.

Also, investors were nervous after reports emerged that Trump privately asked cabinet members if he had the authority to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell after interest rates were increased and the stock market tanked.

On a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 488.55 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 134.14 crore on Friday, provisional data showed.

Meanwhile, the GST Council Saturday reduced tax rates on 23 goods and services, including movie tickets, TV and monitor screens and power banks, and exempted frozen and preserved vegetables from the levy.

The reduced rates are likely to come into effect from January 1, 2019, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told reporters after the 31st meeting of Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council here.

BSE benchmark Sensex extended its losses for the second session Monday in the holiday-shortened week by declining 272 points on heavy selling in realty, consumer durables, metal and auto counters amid weak global cues as political uncertainties in the US dampened sentiment.

BSE benchmark Sensex extended its losses for the second session Monday in the holiday-shortened week by declining 272 points on heavy selling in realty, consumer durables, metal and auto counters amid weak global cues as political uncertainties in the US dampened sentiment. After rising briefly to 35,910.67 at the outset, the 30-share quickly slipped into the negative terrain in line with a weak trend at other Asian markets and touched a low of 35,423.24 before ending at 35,470.15, down by 271.92 points, or 0.76 per cent. The gauge had plunged 572.04 points Friday. Also, the broader NSE Nifty, after shuttling between 10,649.25 and 10,782.30 points, finally settled 90.50 points, or 0.84 per cent lower at 10,663.50. Stock exchanges will remain closed Tuesday on account of Christmas. According to experts, global equities were subdued as a partial US government shutdown that entered was set to stretch through Christmas, after Congress adjourned for the weekend with no deal in sight to end an impasse over funding for President Donald Trump's wall on the US-Mexico border. Also, investors were nervous after reports emerged that Trump privately asked cabinet members if he had the authority to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell after interest rates were increased and the stock market tanked. On a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 488.55 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 134.14 crore on Friday, provisional data showed. Meanwhile, the GST Council Saturday reduced tax rates on 23 goods and services, including movie tickets, TV and monitor screens and power banks, and exempted frozen and preserved vegetables from the levy. The reduced rates are likely to come into effect from January 1, 2019, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told reporters after the 31st meeting of Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council here.

Sensex, Nifty drop on global selloff

Indian markets on Monday opened in green with Sensex at 36,396.69 in morning trade, rising around 200 points from its previous close of 36194.30 on Friday.

Nifty, on the other hand, opened at 10930.70, up by around 50 points from its previous close of 10876.75.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 2.68 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained 1.30 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index edged higher by 2.91 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, The Dow Jones Industrial Average index rose 199.62 points, or 0.79 per cent, to 25,538.46 on Friday.

The BSE Sensex pared initial gains Friday to end modestly higher at 36,194.30 points on profit-booking by investors amid mixed global cues, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The broader NSE Nifty jumped 18.05 points, or 0.17 per cent, to 10,876.75.

During the week, the Sensex gained 1,213.28 points, or 2.34 per cent, while the Nifty rose 350 points or 3.32 per cent.

Indian markets on Monday opened in green with Sensex at 36,396.69 in morning trade, rising around 200 points from its previous close of 36194.30 on Friday. Nifty, on the other hand, opened at 10930.

Indian markets on Monday opened in green with Sensex at 36,396.69 in morning trade, rising around 200 points from its previous close of 36194.30 on Friday. Nifty, on the other hand, opened at 10930.70, up by around 50 points from its previous close of 10876.75. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 2.68 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained 1.30 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index edged higher by 2.91 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, The Dow Jones Industrial Average index rose 199.62 points, or 0.79 per cent, to 25,538.46 on Friday. The BSE Sensex pared initial gains Friday to end modestly higher at 36,194.30 points on profit-booking by investors amid mixed global cues, news agency PTI reported. The broader NSE Nifty jumped 18.05 points, or 0.17 per cent, to 10,876.75. During the week, the Sensex gained 1,213.28 points, or 2.34 per cent, while the Nifty rose 350 points or 3.32 per cent.

Markets open in green, Sensex surges over 200 points

The BSE benchmark Sensex ended 119 points higher Thursday and the broader Nifty went past the 10,600 mark on positive investor sentiment amid easing crude oil prices and firm rupee.

The 30-share index opened a shade higher at 35,145.75 points, hovered in the range of 35,402 and 35,118.42, before ending the session at 35,260.54, with a gain of 118.55 points, or 0.34 per cent, over its previous close.

The gauge had shed 2.50 points Wednesday in a highly volatile session.

The NSE Nifty also closed 40.40 points, or 0.38 per cent, higher at 10,616.70 after shuttling between 10,646.50 and 10,557.50.

The appreciation in rupee, firming trend in other Asian markets and a higher opening of European equities too influenced market mood here.

Traders said falling crude prices in the global market was a big boost for the economy as it lightens the country's import bill burden, eases inflation and current account deficit concerns.

Global crude oil prices have fallen nearly 30 per cent to USD 65 per barrel from over USD 86 in early October. Brent crude fell 0.47 per cent to USD 65.81 per barrel.

Meanwhile, the rupee strengthened further by 44 paise to trade at 71.87 against the dollar in late afternoon trade in the forex market.

However, profit-booking at higher levels by speculators at the fag-end of the session trimmed some of the day's gains, traders added.

According to analysts, a drop in US 10-year bond yield, followed by the gradual pick up in foreign institutional investor (FII) inflow to domestic market and slide in oil prices eased the concerns of liquidity.

The BSE benchmark Sensex ended 119 points higher Thursday and the broader Nifty went past the 10,600 mark on positive investor sentiment amid easing crude oil prices and firm rupee.

The BSE benchmark Sensex ended 119 points higher Thursday and the broader Nifty went past the 10,600 mark on positive investor sentiment amid easing crude oil prices and firm rupee. The 30-share index opened a shade higher at 35,145.75 points, hovered in the range of 35,402 and 35,118.42, before ending the session at 35,260.54, with a gain of 118.55 points, or 0.34 per cent, over its previous close. The gauge had shed 2.50 points Wednesday in a highly volatile session. The NSE Nifty also closed 40.40 points, or 0.38 per cent, higher at 10,616.70 after shuttling between 10,646.50 and 10,557.50. The appreciation in rupee, firming trend in other Asian markets and a higher opening of European equities too influenced market mood here. Traders said falling crude prices in the global market was a big boost for the economy as it lightens the country's import bill burden, eases inflation and current account deficit concerns. Global crude oil prices have fallen nearly 30 per cent to USD 65 per barrel from over USD 86 in early October. Brent crude fell 0.47 per cent to USD 65.81 per barrel. Meanwhile, the rupee strengthened further by 44 paise to trade at 71.87 against the dollar in late afternoon trade in the forex market. However, profit-booking at higher levels by speculators at the fag-end of the session trimmed some of the day's gains, traders added. According to analysts, a drop in US 10-year bond yield, followed by the gradual pick up in foreign institutional investor (FII) inflow to domestic market and slide in oil prices eased the concerns of liquidity.

Sensex ends 119 points higher, Nifty breaches 10,600 mark

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday soared over 413 points to 34,845.15 and the NSE Nifty raced past 10,500 on widespread gains amid fresh foreign fund inflows, fall in global crude prices and rising rupee.

Positive leads from most other Asian markets on easing concerns over the US-China trade war, too, buoyed sentiments here.

The 30-share Sensex climbed 413.15 points, or 1.20 per cent, to quote at 34,845.15. The gauge had shed 10 points in Thursday's volatile session.

The NSE Nifty leaped 122.85 points, or 1.18 per cent, to 10,503.30.

Investor sentiment got a big push after Brent crude, the international benchmark, dropped below the USD 73-mark to quote at a seven-month low of USD 72.65 by falling 3.48 per cent, traders said.

Adding to the upbeat mood, strengthening rupee against the dollar and a firm trend at other Asian markets, tracking overnight gains at the Wall Street after US President Donald Trump said trade talks with China were "moving along nicely".

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs), which had been selling on the Indian bourses, made fresh purchases worth Rs 348.75 crore Thursday, while DIIs sold shares to the tune of Rs 509.17 crore, provisional data showed.

The big gainers were Asian Paint, Yes Bank, Bajaj Auto, Hero MotoCorp, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors, M&amp;M, Maruti Suzuki, SBI, L&amp;T, Axis Bank, ITC, Bharti Airtel, HUL, RIL, Kotak Bank and ICICI Bank, gaining up to 5.80 per cent.

Shares of state-run oil market companies such as HPCL, BPCL and IOC rose up to 3.76 per cent, largely supported by fall in crude prices in the global market.

All the sectoral indices led by auto, consumer durables and oil &amp; gas were trading in the positive zone, with gains of up to 2.65 per cent.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 2.37 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index was up 1.21 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained 0.70 per cent, and Korea rallied 2.13 per cent.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average had gained 1.06 per cent in Thursday's session.&nbsp;

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday soared over 413 points to 34,845.15 and the NSE Nifty raced past 10,500 on widespread gains amid fresh foreign fund inflows, fall in global crude prices and rising rupee.

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday soared over 413 points to 34,845.15 and the NSE Nifty raced past 10,500 on widespread gains amid fresh foreign fund inflows, fall in global crude prices and rising rupee. Positive leads from most other Asian markets on easing concerns over the US-China trade war, too, buoyed sentiments here. The 30-share Sensex climbed 413.15 points, or 1.20 per cent, to quote at 34,845.15. The gauge had shed 10 points in Thursday's volatile session. The NSE Nifty leaped 122.85 points, or 1.18 per cent, to 10,503.30. Investor sentiment got a big push after Brent crude, the international benchmark, dropped below the USD 73-mark to quote at a seven-month low of USD 72.65 by falling 3.48 per cent, traders said. Adding to the upbeat mood, strengthening rupee against the dollar and a firm trend at other Asian markets, tracking overnight gains at the Wall Street after US President Donald Trump said trade talks with China were "moving along nicely". Foreign institutional investors (FIIs), which had been selling on the Indian bourses, made fresh purchases worth Rs 348.75 crore Thursday, while DIIs sold shares to the tune of Rs 509.17 crore, provisional data showed. The big gainers were Asian Paint, Yes Bank, Bajaj Auto, Hero MotoCorp, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors, M&M, Maruti Suzuki, SBI, L&T, Axis Bank, ITC, Bharti Airtel, HUL, RIL, Kotak Bank and ICICI Bank, gaining up to 5.80 per cent. Shares of state-run oil market companies such as HPCL, BPCL and IOC rose up to 3.76 per cent, largely supported by fall in crude prices in the global market. All the sectoral indices led by auto, consumer durables and oil & gas were trading in the positive zone, with gains of up to 2.65 per cent. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 2.37 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index was up 1.21 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained 0.70 per cent, and Korea rallied 2.13 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average had gained 1.06 per cent in Thursday's session.

Sensex rallies over 400 points on strong global cues, falling crude prices