The rupee weakened by 15 paise to trade at 71.38 against the US dollar in early trade Monday amid heavy foreign fund outflows and subdued domestic equity markets.

At the forex market, the domestic unit opened weak at 71.35 and slipped further to 71.46. However, it pared some losses to trade at 71.38.

The rupee had closed 7 paise lower against the greenback Friday at 71.23. On a weekly basis, it had registered a loss of 8 paise.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 966.43 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought equities to the tune of Rs 853.25 crore Friday, provisional data showed.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, was trading 0.11 per cent lower at US $66.19 per barrel.

The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, dipped 0.17 per cent to 96.74.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 111.30 points, or 0.31 per cent, to 35,690.58 in early trade. 
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The rupee weakened by 15 paise to trade at 71.38 against the US dollar in early trade Monday amid heavy foreign fund outflows and subdued domestic equity markets.

The rupee weakened by 15 paise to trade at 71.38 against the US dollar in early trade Monday amid heavy foreign fund outflows and subdued domestic equity markets. At the forex market, the domestic unit opened weak at 71.35 and slipped further to 71.46. However, it pared some losses to trade at 71.38. The rupee had closed 7 paise lower against the greenback Friday at 71.23. On a weekly basis, it had registered a loss of 8 paise. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 966.43 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought equities to the tune of Rs 853.25 crore Friday, provisional data showed. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, was trading 0.11 per cent lower at US $66.19 per barrel. The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, dipped 0.17 per cent to 96.74. Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 111.30 points, or 0.31 per cent, to 35,690.58 in early trade.

Rupee slides 15 paise vs US $ in early trade

Falling for the eighth straight session, the BSE Sensex plunged over 311 points Monday on heavy selling in banking, FMCG, IT, auto and pharma stocks amid sustained foreign fund outflows.

The 30-share index settled 310.51 points, or 0.87 per cent lower at 35,498.44. The broader NSE Nifty fell 83.45 points, or 0.78 per cent, to 10,640.95.

Banking shares weakened after Reserve Bank Governor Shaktikanta Das said he will meet heads of public and private sector banks this week to discuss the transmission of interest rate cuts to borrowers.

Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank cut the benchmark interest rate by 0.25 per cent to 6.25 per cent. However, only a handful of banks, including SBI, have reduced their rates, that too by just 0.05 per cent.

Top losers in the Sensex pack included TCS, Yes Bank, ITC, Sun Pharma, Reliance, Coal India, Asian Paints, SBI, Maruti, HUL, HCL Tech and ICICI Bank, falling up to 2.91 per cent.

ONGC, Tata Motors, Axis Bank, Vedanta, NTPC, IndusInd Bank and HDFC gained up to 1.48 per cent.

Sectorally, BSE bankex, auto, FMCG, healthcare, metal and tech indices fell up to 1.36 per cent.

Only telecom and realty ended in the green, rising up to 0.88 per cent. 
Broader indices ended lower, with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap falling up to 1.04 per cent.

The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 21 paise to 71.44 against the US dollar (intra-day).

Brent crude futures were trading 0.15 per cent higher at USD 66.35 per barrel.

Meanwhile, foreign institutional investors sold shares worth a net Rs 966.43 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors were net buyers to the tune of Rs 853.25 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 1.60 per cent, Japan's Nikkei rallied 1.82 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 2.68 per cent, while Korea's Kospi ended 0.67 per cent higher.

In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.27 per cent, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.06 per cent, and London's FTSE shed 0.27 per cent in early deals.

Falling for the eighth straight session, the BSE Sensex plunged over 311 points Monday on heavy selling in banking, FMCG, IT, auto and pharma stocks amid sustained foreign fund outflows.

Falling for the eighth straight session, the BSE Sensex plunged over 311 points Monday on heavy selling in banking, FMCG, IT, auto and pharma stocks amid sustained foreign fund outflows. The 30-share index settled 310.51 points, or 0.87 per cent lower at 35,498.44. The broader NSE Nifty fell 83.45 points, or 0.78 per cent, to 10,640.95. Banking shares weakened after Reserve Bank Governor Shaktikanta Das said he will meet heads of public and private sector banks this week to discuss the transmission of interest rate cuts to borrowers. Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank cut the benchmark interest rate by 0.25 per cent to 6.25 per cent. However, only a handful of banks, including SBI, have reduced their rates, that too by just 0.05 per cent. Top losers in the Sensex pack included TCS, Yes Bank, ITC, Sun Pharma, Reliance, Coal India, Asian Paints, SBI, Maruti, HUL, HCL Tech and ICICI Bank, falling up to 2.91 per cent. ONGC, Tata Motors, Axis Bank, Vedanta, NTPC, IndusInd Bank and HDFC gained up to 1.48 per cent. Sectorally, BSE bankex, auto, FMCG, healthcare, metal and tech indices fell up to 1.36 per cent. Only telecom and realty ended in the green, rising up to 0.88 per cent. Broader indices ended lower, with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap falling up to 1.04 per cent. The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 21 paise to 71.44 against the US dollar (intra-day). Brent crude futures were trading 0.15 per cent higher at USD 66.35 per barrel. Meanwhile, foreign institutional investors sold shares worth a net Rs 966.43 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors were net buyers to the tune of Rs 853.25 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 1.60 per cent, Japan's Nikkei rallied 1.82 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 2.68 per cent, while Korea's Kospi ended 0.67 per cent higher. In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.27 per cent, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.06 per cent, and London's FTSE shed 0.27 per cent in early deals.

Sensex sinks 311 points; Nifty drops below 10,700-mark

Benchmark indices reeled under selling pressure for the seventh straight session Friday as pharma, metal, auto and banking stocks led losses amid sustained foreign fund outflows and muted earnings season.

However, emergence of buying in power, energy and PSU stocks in the last one hour of the session and covering-up of short positions by speculators wiped off most losses.

The 30-share Sensex after slumping 365 points to hit a low of 35,510.97 intra-day, recouped most of the lost ground on fag-end buying, and finally settled with a modest fall of 67.27 points, or 0.19 per cent down at 35,808.95.

The index has now lost a lost over 1,165 points in seven sessions.

The broader NSE Nifty, after shuttling between 10,620.40 and 10,785.75, settled at 10,724.40 points, down by 21.65 points, or 0.20 per cent.

On a weekly basis, the BSE index dropped 737.53 points, or over 2 per cent; while NSE Nifty fell 219.20 points, or 2 per cent.

Top losers include Sun Pharma, Tata Steel, Vedanta, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Finance, SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC and Maruti, falling up to 3.94 per cent.

On the other hand, NTPC, PowerGrid, ONGC, RIL, L&amp;T, Bharti Airtel, Tata Motors and Coal India were among the gainers, rising up to 4.13 per cent.

A weak trend at other Asian bourses, tracking overnight losses at the US markets after US retail sales recorded its biggest drop since 2009, raising fresh doubts about the strength of the US economy, also weighed on market sentiment, brokers said.

Besides, investors remained cautious ahead of the outcome of the ongoing trade talks between the US and China.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 250.23 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 1,225.24 crore on Thursday, provisional data showed.

Rising global crude prices dented the rupee, which depreciated by another 28 paise to 71.44 against the dollar intra-day.

The Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, advanced to USD 65.10 per barrel, their highest level in nearly three months.&nbsp;

Benchmark indices reeled under selling pressure for the seventh straight session Friday as pharma, metal, auto and banking stocks led losses amid sustained foreign fund outflows and muted earnings season.

Benchmark indices reeled under selling pressure for the seventh straight session Friday as pharma, metal, auto and banking stocks led losses amid sustained foreign fund outflows and muted earnings season. However, emergence of buying in power, energy and PSU stocks in the last one hour of the session and covering-up of short positions by speculators wiped off most losses. The 30-share Sensex after slumping 365 points to hit a low of 35,510.97 intra-day, recouped most of the lost ground on fag-end buying, and finally settled with a modest fall of 67.27 points, or 0.19 per cent down at 35,808.95. The index has now lost a lost over 1,165 points in seven sessions. The broader NSE Nifty, after shuttling between 10,620.40 and 10,785.75, settled at 10,724.40 points, down by 21.65 points, or 0.20 per cent. On a weekly basis, the BSE index dropped 737.53 points, or over 2 per cent; while NSE Nifty fell 219.20 points, or 2 per cent. Top losers include Sun Pharma, Tata Steel, Vedanta, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Finance, SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC and Maruti, falling up to 3.94 per cent. On the other hand, NTPC, PowerGrid, ONGC, RIL, L&T, Bharti Airtel, Tata Motors and Coal India were among the gainers, rising up to 4.13 per cent. A weak trend at other Asian bourses, tracking overnight losses at the US markets after US retail sales recorded its biggest drop since 2009, raising fresh doubts about the strength of the US economy, also weighed on market sentiment, brokers said. Besides, investors remained cautious ahead of the outcome of the ongoing trade talks between the US and China. Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 250.23 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 1,225.24 crore on Thursday, provisional data showed. Rising global crude prices dented the rupee, which depreciated by another 28 paise to 71.44 against the dollar intra-day. The Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, advanced to USD 65.10 per barrel, their highest level in nearly three months.

Sensex ends 67 points lower; pharma, metal stocks crack

The BSE <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-drops-241-points-ahead-of-macro-data-releases-bank-it-stocks-crack-197158">Sensex fell </a>over 100 points in early trade Thursday on heavy foreign fund outflows amid rising global crude prices and a subdued trend at other Asian bourses.

The 30-share barometer, which had lost 840 points in the previous five sessions, was trading 120.01 points, or 0.33 per cent, lower at 35,914.10.

On similar lines, the NSE Nifty was down 40.95 points, or 0.38 per cent, at 10,752.70 points.

Traders said sentiment remained bearish on continued withdrawal of funds by foreign institutional investors and surging crude prices overseas.&nbsp;

Foreign portfolio investors sold shares worth a net Rs 676.63 crore, while domestic institutional investors bought shares worth a net Rs 713.10 crore Wednesday, provisional data showed.&nbsp;

In morning session on Sensex, the laggards that dragged the key indices down were Bharti Airtel, Coal India, NTPC, Kotak Bank, HUL, Bajaj Finance, RIL, PowerGrid, HDFC Bank, Infosys, HCL Tech, Asian Paint, ONGC, TCS, SBI, M&amp;M, HDFC, Tata Steel and IndusInd Bank, falling up to 2.48 per cent.

However, Yes Bank rallied up to 20 per cent after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said it had not found any divergence in the asset classification and provisioning done by the lender during 2017-18.

RBI assesses compliance by banks with extant prudential norms on income recognition, asset classification and provisioning (IRACP) as part of its supervisory processes.&nbsp;

Sectorally, oil and gas, realty, PSU, consumer durables, IT and metal indices led the losses, falling up to 1.44 per cent. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the rupee depreciated 14 paise to 70.94 against the dollar. 
Brent crude futures were trading higher by 0.46 per cent at US $63.90 per barrel.

Stocks of state-run oil marketing companies such as IOC, BPCL and HPCL were down by up to 1.50 per cent.

A weak trend at other Asian markets too dented domestic trading sentiments, traders added.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.50 per cent, Shanghai's Composite Index fell 0.32 per cent, Singapore's Straits Times shed 0.15 per cent and Korea's Kospi slipped 0.44 per cent. Japan's Nikkei, however, was a shade higher in late morning deals.

On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.46 per cent higher in Wednesday's trade.&nbsp;

The BSE Sensex fell over 100 points in early trade Thursday on heavy foreign fund outflows amid rising global crude prices and a subdued trend at other Asian bourses.

The BSE Sensex fell over 100 points in early trade Thursday on heavy foreign fund outflows amid rising global crude prices and a subdued trend at other Asian bourses. The 30-share barometer, which had lost 840 points in the previous five sessions, was trading 120.01 points, or 0.33 per cent, lower at 35,914.10. On similar lines, the NSE Nifty was down 40.95 points, or 0.38 per cent, at 10,752.70 points. Traders said sentiment remained bearish on continued withdrawal of funds by foreign institutional investors and surging crude prices overseas. Foreign portfolio investors sold shares worth a net Rs 676.63 crore, while domestic institutional investors bought shares worth a net Rs 713.10 crore Wednesday, provisional data showed. In morning session on Sensex, the laggards that dragged the key indices down were Bharti Airtel, Coal India, NTPC, Kotak Bank, HUL, Bajaj Finance, RIL, PowerGrid, HDFC Bank, Infosys, HCL Tech, Asian Paint, ONGC, TCS, SBI, M&M, HDFC, Tata Steel and IndusInd Bank, falling up to 2.48 per cent. However, Yes Bank rallied up to 20 per cent after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said it had not found any divergence in the asset classification and provisioning done by the lender during 2017-18. RBI assesses compliance by banks with extant prudential norms on income recognition, asset classification and provisioning (IRACP) as part of its supervisory processes. Sectorally, oil and gas, realty, PSU, consumer durables, IT and metal indices led the losses, falling up to 1.44 per cent. Meanwhile, the rupee depreciated 14 paise to 70.94 against the dollar. Brent crude futures were trading higher by 0.46 per cent at US $63.90 per barrel. Stocks of state-run oil marketing companies such as IOC, BPCL and HPCL were down by up to 1.50 per cent. A weak trend at other Asian markets too dented domestic trading sentiments, traders added. Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.50 per cent, Shanghai's Composite Index fell 0.32 per cent, Singapore's Straits Times shed 0.15 per cent and Korea's Kospi slipped 0.44 per cent. Japan's Nikkei, however, was a shade higher in late morning deals. On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.46 per cent higher in Wednesday's trade.

Sensex drops over 100 points on weak global cues, foreign fund outflow

Continuing its fall for the sixth straight session Thursday, the benchmark BSE Sensex dropped 158 points led by losses in IT, metal and energy stocks amid sustained foreign fund outflow and lacklustre global cues.

The 30-share index, after shuttling between 35,799.42 and 36,109.10, finally settled 157.89 points, or 0.44 per cent, down at 35,876.22. It had lost 840 points in the previous five sessions.

The broader NSE Nifty lost 47.60 points, or 0.44 per cent, to end at 10,746.05. Intra-day, it shuttled between 10,718.75 and 10,792.70.

Top losers in the Sensex pack include Bharti Airtel, Infosys, Asian Paints, RIL, Coal India, HDFC Bank, HDFC, TCS, ONGC and M&amp;M, falling up to 3.09 per cent.

On the other hand, Yes Bank was the biggest gainer, rallying 30.73 per cent, after the company said that the RBI had not found any divergence in the asset classification and provisioning done by the lender during 2017-18.

Other gainers include, Tata Motors, Sun Pharma, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Finance, ICICI Bank and Hero MotoCorp, rising up to 3.17 per cent.

Selling was more pronounced in oil and gas, IT, metal, PSU and state-run oil marketing company stocks that dragged the key indices into the negative territory.

Energy stocks cracked as fresh concerns about rising crude oil prices resurfaced, with Brent crude oil futures zooming 1.26 per cent, to USD 64.41 per barrel, after Saudi Arabia, world's top crude exporter, said it would cut crude exports and its production.

Shares of state-run oil marketing companies - IOC and BPCL - fell up to 4.19 per cent.

The broader markets outperformed key indices with the BSE mid-cap index rising 0.52 per cent, and the BSE small-cap gaining 0.17 per cent.

Sector-wise, the BSE oil and gas index emerged as the worst performer by losing 2.11 per cent, followed by IT down 1.28 per cent, teck (1.14 per cent), PSU (0.78 per cent), consumer durables (0.42 per cent) and FMCG (0.06 per cent).

While, bankex, auto, capital goods, healthcare, realty, infrastructure and power indices managed to end in the green, rising up to 0.78 per cent.

Sustained foreign fund outflow and fresh weakness in the rupee against the dollar also impacted domestic market sentiments, brokers said.

Foreign portfolio investors sold shares worth a net Rs 676.63 crore, while domestic institutional investors bought shares worth a net Rs 713.10 crore Wednesday, provisional data showed.

The market extended losses as investors continued to focus on domestic cues while assessing global developments, said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services.

Moderation in Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in January provides an insight about the slowdown in the economy and earnings growth, he added.

Inflation based on wholesale prices fell to a 10-month low of 2.76 per cent in January over the previous month on softening prices of fuel and some food items, according to government data released earlier in the day.

The WPI-based inflation stood at 3.8 per cent in December 2018, and 3.02 per cent in January 2018.

Mixed leads from most other Asian bourses also accelerated the selling pace, but a higher opening of European shares helped trim losses to some extent.

Japan's Nikkei fell 0.02 per cent, Shanghai Composite was down 0.05 per cent, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng shed 0.21 per cent. Taiwan was also down 0.02 per cent; while Korea's Kospi rose 1.11 per cent and Singapore Straits Times gained 0.06 per cent.

In Europe, Paris CAC 40 rose 0.66 per cent and Frankfurt's DAX gained 0.48 per cent in their early session. London's FTSE was up 0.16 per cent.

Continuing its fall for the sixth straight session Thursday, the benchmark BSE Sensex dropped 158 points led by losses in IT, metal and energy stocks amid sustained foreign fund outflow and lacklustre global cues.

Continuing its fall for the sixth straight session Thursday, the benchmark BSE Sensex dropped 158 points led by losses in IT, metal and energy stocks amid sustained foreign fund outflow and lacklustre global cues. The 30-share index, after shuttling between 35,799.42 and 36,109.10, finally settled 157.89 points, or 0.44 per cent, down at 35,876.22. It had lost 840 points in the previous five sessions. The broader NSE Nifty lost 47.60 points, or 0.44 per cent, to end at 10,746.05. Intra-day, it shuttled between 10,718.75 and 10,792.70. Top losers in the Sensex pack include Bharti Airtel, Infosys, Asian Paints, RIL, Coal India, HDFC Bank, HDFC, TCS, ONGC and M&M, falling up to 3.09 per cent. On the other hand, Yes Bank was the biggest gainer, rallying 30.73 per cent, after the company said that the RBI had not found any divergence in the asset classification and provisioning done by the lender during 2017-18. Other gainers include, Tata Motors, Sun Pharma, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Finance, ICICI Bank and Hero MotoCorp, rising up to 3.17 per cent. Selling was more pronounced in oil and gas, IT, metal, PSU and state-run oil marketing company stocks that dragged the key indices into the negative territory. Energy stocks cracked as fresh concerns about rising crude oil prices resurfaced, with Brent crude oil futures zooming 1.26 per cent, to USD 64.41 per barrel, after Saudi Arabia, world's top crude exporter, said it would cut crude exports and its production. Shares of state-run oil marketing companies - IOC and BPCL - fell up to 4.19 per cent. The broader markets outperformed key indices with the BSE mid-cap index rising 0.52 per cent, and the BSE small-cap gaining 0.17 per cent. Sector-wise, the BSE oil and gas index emerged as the worst performer by losing 2.11 per cent, followed by IT down 1.28 per cent, teck (1.14 per cent), PSU (0.78 per cent), consumer durables (0.42 per cent) and FMCG (0.06 per cent). While, bankex, auto, capital goods, healthcare, realty, infrastructure and power indices managed to end in the green, rising up to 0.78 per cent. Sustained foreign fund outflow and fresh weakness in the rupee against the dollar also impacted domestic market sentiments, brokers said. Foreign portfolio investors sold shares worth a net Rs 676.63 crore, while domestic institutional investors bought shares worth a net Rs 713.10 crore Wednesday, provisional data showed. The market extended losses as investors continued to focus on domestic cues while assessing global developments, said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services. Moderation in Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in January provides an insight about the slowdown in the economy and earnings growth, he added. Inflation based on wholesale prices fell to a 10-month low of 2.76 per cent in January over the previous month on softening prices of fuel and some food items, according to government data released earlier in the day. The WPI-based inflation stood at 3.8 per cent in December 2018, and 3.02 per cent in January 2018. Mixed leads from most other Asian bourses also accelerated the selling pace, but a higher opening of European shares helped trim losses to some extent. Japan's Nikkei fell 0.02 per cent, Shanghai Composite was down 0.05 per cent, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng shed 0.21 per cent. Taiwan was also down 0.02 per cent; while Korea's Kospi rose 1.11 per cent and Singapore Straits Times gained 0.06 per cent. In Europe, Paris CAC 40 rose 0.66 per cent and Frankfurt's DAX gained 0.48 per cent in their early session. London's FTSE was up 0.16 per cent.

Sensex, Nifty fall for 6th straight session; Yes Bank zooms 31%

The rupee appreciated by another 26 paise to 70.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Wednesday after retail inflation fell to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January.

The weakness in the dollar against some currencies overseas as investors shifted their focus to riskier asset amid the US-China trade truce hopes, also supported the rupee's up move.

Besides, retail inflation falling to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January over the previous month, and selling of the American currency by exporters supported the rupee, forex dealers said.

Industrial output growth remained subdued at 2.4 per cent in December 2018 on account of contraction in the mining segment and poor show by the manufacturing sector.

The rupee had gained 48 paise to end at a one-month high of 70.70 against the US dollar Tuesday, registering its sixth straight session of gain.

In the last six trading sessions, the rupee has gained 110 paise.

The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 184.68 points, or 0.51 per cent, to trade at 36,338.30.

The rupee appreciated by another 26 paise to 70.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Wednesday after retail inflation fell to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January.

The rupee appreciated by another 26 paise to 70.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Wednesday after retail inflation fell to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January. The weakness in the dollar against some currencies overseas as investors shifted their focus to riskier asset amid the US-China trade truce hopes, also supported the rupee's up move. Besides, retail inflation falling to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January over the previous month, and selling of the American currency by exporters supported the rupee, forex dealers said. Industrial output growth remained subdued at 2.4 per cent in December 2018 on account of contraction in the mining segment and poor show by the manufacturing sector. The rupee had gained 48 paise to end at a one-month high of 70.70 against the US dollar Tuesday, registering its sixth straight session of gain. In the last six trading sessions, the rupee has gained 110 paise. The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 184.68 points, or 0.51 per cent, to trade at 36,338.30.

Rupee gains 26 paise against US dollar in opening trade

The benchmark Sensex gained over 150 points in early trade Wednesday, snapping its four-session losing streak, on the back of positive macroeconomic data and better-than-expected earnings by some bluechip companies, amid positive global cues.

The 30-share barometer was trading higher by 169.36 points, or 0.47 per cent, at 36,322.97. The gauge had lost over 720 points in the previous four days.

The NSE Nifty too climbed 29.20 points, to 10,860.60.

Barring teck, all the sectoral indices, led by realty, FMCG, power and bankex, gained up to 1.50 per cent.

Brokers said buying activity emerged on positive macroeconomic data as retail inflation fell to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January over the previous month on continued decline in food prices.

Meanwhile, industrial output growth remained subdued at 2.4 per cent in December 2018 on account of contraction in the mining segment and poor show by the manufacturing sector.

Both sets of data were released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Tuesday after market hours.

"Given the current relatively low growth and inflation scenario coupled with high real interest rate situation, we expect the RBI to cut the policy rate by another 25 bps during the next policy meet," said Sujan Hajra, Chief Economist, Anand Rathi Financial Services, adding that the data releases are modestly positive for both the equity and debt market.

Sun Pharma emerged as the top gainers in the Sensex pack by surging 2.77 per cent after the drug major Tuesday reported nearly four-fold jump in its consolidated net profit at Rs 1,241.85 crore for the quarter ended on December 31, 2018.

Other big gainers were ITC, PowerGrid, HDFC, TCS, ONGC, HUL, NTPC, Kotak Bank, HDFC Bank, HUL, Coal India, Vedanta, Bajaj Finance, L&amp;T and Yes Bank, rising up to 2.60 per cent.

However, M&amp;M, Hero MotoCorp, HCL Tech, SBI, Infosys, Maruti Suzuki and Bajaj Auto were down on some selling.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 466.78 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares worth Rs 122.64 crore Tuesday, provisional data showed.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading higher after US market gained as investors grew more optimistic about the prospects of a resolution to the trade dispute between the US and China.

Japan's Nikkei rose 1.21 per cent, while Korea's Kospi was up 0.40 per cent in early trade. Hong Kong's Hang Seng too was trading higher.

On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 1.49 per cent higher in Tuesday's trade.&nbsp;

The benchmark Sensex gained over 150 points in early trade Wednesday, snapping its four-session losing streak, on the back of positive macroeconomic data and better-than-expected earnings by some bluechip companies, amid positive global cues.

The benchmark Sensex gained over 150 points in early trade Wednesday, snapping its four-session losing streak, on the back of positive macroeconomic data and better-than-expected earnings by some bluechip companies, amid positive global cues. The 30-share barometer was trading higher by 169.36 points, or 0.47 per cent, at 36,322.97. The gauge had lost over 720 points in the previous four days. The NSE Nifty too climbed 29.20 points, to 10,860.60. Barring teck, all the sectoral indices, led by realty, FMCG, power and bankex, gained up to 1.50 per cent. Brokers said buying activity emerged on positive macroeconomic data as retail inflation fell to a 19-month low of 2.05 per cent in January over the previous month on continued decline in food prices. Meanwhile, industrial output growth remained subdued at 2.4 per cent in December 2018 on account of contraction in the mining segment and poor show by the manufacturing sector. Both sets of data were released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Tuesday after market hours. "Given the current relatively low growth and inflation scenario coupled with high real interest rate situation, we expect the RBI to cut the policy rate by another 25 bps during the next policy meet," said Sujan Hajra, Chief Economist, Anand Rathi Financial Services, adding that the data releases are modestly positive for both the equity and debt market. Sun Pharma emerged as the top gainers in the Sensex pack by surging 2.77 per cent after the drug major Tuesday reported nearly four-fold jump in its consolidated net profit at Rs 1,241.85 crore for the quarter ended on December 31, 2018. Other big gainers were ITC, PowerGrid, HDFC, TCS, ONGC, HUL, NTPC, Kotak Bank, HDFC Bank, HUL, Coal India, Vedanta, Bajaj Finance, L&T and Yes Bank, rising up to 2.60 per cent. However, M&M, Hero MotoCorp, HCL Tech, SBI, Infosys, Maruti Suzuki and Bajaj Auto were down on some selling. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 466.78 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares worth Rs 122.64 crore Tuesday, provisional data showed. Overseas, Asian shares were trading higher after US market gained as investors grew more optimistic about the prospects of a resolution to the trade dispute between the US and China. Japan's Nikkei rose 1.21 per cent, while Korea's Kospi was up 0.40 per cent in early trade. Hong Kong's Hang Seng too was trading higher. On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 1.49 per cent higher in Tuesday's trade.

Sensex rises over 150 points on easing inflation, positive global cues

The BSE Sensex dropped over 200 points, ending in the negative terrain for the fourth straight session Tuesday, as investors intensified selling towards the fag end of the day, even as global cues remained positive.

Realty, IT, FMCG and banking counters witnessed heavy selling ahead of the index of the release of industrial production (IIP) data for December and consumer price inflation (CPI) numbers for January.

Indices failed to hold on to opening gains as profit-taking re-emerged in the later part of the session, wiping off initial gains, with the BSE Sensex settling 241.41 points, or 0.66 per cent, down at 36,153.62 points. The gauge had lost 580 points in the previous three sessions.

The broader Nifty finished at 10,831.40, down 57.40 points, or 0.53 per cent.

Top losers included Hero MotoCorp, HDFC, SBI, Infosys, HCL Tech, ICICI Bank, Bajaj Finance, ONGC, Bajaj Auto and IndusInd Bank, falling up to 2.63 per cent.

On the other hand, Sun Pharma, Coal India, Tata Steel, NTPC, Asian Paints, Vedanta, M&amp;M and RIL were the gainers, rising up to 2 per cent.

"The market closed the session with cuts of over half a per cent amid weak global cues and ahead of inflation and industrial output data," said Paras Bothra, President, Equity Research, Ashika Group.

"The underlying sentiment of the markets remained cautious as another round of US-China trade talks began with working-level talks in Beijing and US congressional negotiators reached an agreement in principle to fund the government and avoid another shutdown ahead of a Friday midnight deadline," he added.

Sectorally, the BSE realty index emerged as the worst performer by falling 1.29 per cent, followed by IT index shedding 0.94 per cent, teck (0.90 per cent), bankex (0.81 per cent), FMCG (0.73 per cent), auto (0.51 per cent), PSU (0.31 per cent), capital goods (0.19 per cent), power (0.08 per cent), consumer durables (0.07 per cent) and oil and gas (0.06 per cent).

While metal, healthcare and infrastructure indices ended higher up to 1.65 per cent.

In the broader markets, the small-cap index fell 0.43 per cent, and mid-caps shed 0.06 per cent.

Tepid earnings by some more companies and foreign fund outflows also dampened trading sentiments, brokers said.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 125.05 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares worth Rs 232.55 crore Monday, provisional data showed.

In the Asian region, Japan's Nikkei climbed 2.61 per cent, Korea's Kospi was up 0.45 per cent, Taiwan index gained 0.93 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index edged 0.68 per cent higher. Hong Kong's Hang Seng too up 0.10 per cent.

European markets traded higher in their early deals. Frankfurt's DAX gained 0.99 per cent, Paris CAC 40 rose 0.72 per cent and London's FTSE was up 0.33 per cent.

The BSE Sensex dropped over 200 points, ending in the negative terrain for the fourth straight session Tuesday, as investors intensified selling towards the fag end of the day, even as global cues remained positive.

The BSE Sensex dropped over 200 points, ending in the negative terrain for the fourth straight session Tuesday, as investors intensified selling towards the fag end of the day, even as global cues remained positive. Realty, IT, FMCG and banking counters witnessed heavy selling ahead of the index of the release of industrial production (IIP) data for December and consumer price inflation (CPI) numbers for January. Indices failed to hold on to opening gains as profit-taking re-emerged in the later part of the session, wiping off initial gains, with the BSE Sensex settling 241.41 points, or 0.66 per cent, down at 36,153.62 points. The gauge had lost 580 points in the previous three sessions. The broader Nifty finished at 10,831.40, down 57.40 points, or 0.53 per cent. Top losers included Hero MotoCorp, HDFC, SBI, Infosys, HCL Tech, ICICI Bank, Bajaj Finance, ONGC, Bajaj Auto and IndusInd Bank, falling up to 2.63 per cent. On the other hand, Sun Pharma, Coal India, Tata Steel, NTPC, Asian Paints, Vedanta, M&M and RIL were the gainers, rising up to 2 per cent. "The market closed the session with cuts of over half a per cent amid weak global cues and ahead of inflation and industrial output data," said Paras Bothra, President, Equity Research, Ashika Group. "The underlying sentiment of the markets remained cautious as another round of US-China trade talks began with working-level talks in Beijing and US congressional negotiators reached an agreement in principle to fund the government and avoid another shutdown ahead of a Friday midnight deadline," he added. Sectorally, the BSE realty index emerged as the worst performer by falling 1.29 per cent, followed by IT index shedding 0.94 per cent, teck (0.90 per cent), bankex (0.81 per cent), FMCG (0.73 per cent), auto (0.51 per cent), PSU (0.31 per cent), capital goods (0.19 per cent), power (0.08 per cent), consumer durables (0.07 per cent) and oil and gas (0.06 per cent). While metal, healthcare and infrastructure indices ended higher up to 1.65 per cent. In the broader markets, the small-cap index fell 0.43 per cent, and mid-caps shed 0.06 per cent. Tepid earnings by some more companies and foreign fund outflows also dampened trading sentiments, brokers said. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 125.05 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares worth Rs 232.55 crore Monday, provisional data showed. In the Asian region, Japan's Nikkei climbed 2.61 per cent, Korea's Kospi was up 0.45 per cent, Taiwan index gained 0.93 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index edged 0.68 per cent higher. Hong Kong's Hang Seng too up 0.10 per cent. European markets traded higher in their early deals. Frankfurt's DAX gained 0.99 per cent, Paris CAC 40 rose 0.72 per cent and London's FTSE was up 0.33 per cent.

Sensex drops 241 points ahead of macro data releases; bank, IT stocks crack

The rupee strengthened by 6 paise at 71.12 against the dollar in opening trade Tuesday, maintaining its upward trend for the sixth straight day on continued selling of the US currency by exporters and banks.

Besides, optimism ahead of index of industrial production (IIP) numbers for December and retail inflation for January, and the dollar weakening against some other currencies overseas, also supported the rupee, forex dealers said.

A positive opening in the domestic equity market gave the uptrend some momentum, they added.

The rupee opened lower at 71.21, but recovered to trade 6 paise higher at 71.12 against the dollar.

The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 22.20 points, or 0.06 per cent, to 36,417.23 in early session Tuesday.

On Monday, the rupee had ended higher by 13 paise to close at 71.18 against the dollar on easing crude oil prices, even as the greenback strengthened vis-a-vis other major currencies.&nbsp;

The rupee strengthened by 6 paise at 71.12 against the dollar in opening trade Tuesday, maintaining its upward trend for the sixth straight day on continued selling of the US currency by exporters and banks.

The rupee strengthened by 6 paise at 71.12 against the dollar in opening trade Tuesday, maintaining its upward trend for the sixth straight day on continued selling of the US currency by exporters and banks. Besides, optimism ahead of index of industrial production (IIP) numbers for December and retail inflation for January, and the dollar weakening against some other currencies overseas, also supported the rupee, forex dealers said. A positive opening in the domestic equity market gave the uptrend some momentum, they added. The rupee opened lower at 71.21, but recovered to trade 6 paise higher at 71.12 against the dollar. The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 22.20 points, or 0.06 per cent, to 36,417.23 in early session Tuesday. On Monday, the rupee had ended higher by 13 paise to close at 71.18 against the dollar on easing crude oil prices, even as the greenback strengthened vis-a-vis other major currencies.

Rupee gains 6 paise against dollar in opening trade

Benchmark equity indices opened on a cautious note Tuesday ahead of the release of key macroeconomic numbers amid selling by foreign and domestic investors.

The 30-share Sensex was trading 3.66 points, or 0.01 per cent, lower at 36,391.37 in early trade. The index had lost 580 points in the previous three sessions.

The broader NSE Nifty slipped 3.95 points, or 0.04 per cent, to 10,884.85.

Major losers were Infosys, TCS, Hero MotoCorp, HCL Tech, Bajaj Finance, Axis Bank, Bajaj Auto, IndusInd Bank and Maruti, falling up to 2.42 per cent.

While the gainers include PowerGrid, Yes Bank, M&amp;M, RIL, Asian Paint, Sun Pharma, Cola India, Vedanta, ONGC, Tata Steel, SBI, L&amp;T, Tata Motors, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, rising up to 1.76 per cent.

Brokers said investors were cautious ahead of index of industrial production (IIP) data for December and inflation numbers for January to be released later in the day.

"Global trade deal and risk of slowdown in growth continue to give caution, while investors remain focused on CPI inflation and IIP data to get some direction," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services said.

Heavy selling by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also dented investor sentiment, they added.

On a net basis, FPIs sold shares worth Rs 125.05 crore, while DIIs offlaoded shares worth Rs 232.55 crore on Monday, provisional data showed.

Meanwhile, the rupee maintained its strength for the sixth straight day against the US dollar in opening trade.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei rallied 2.03 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.20 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.72 per cent and Korea's Kospi was up 0.37 per cent in their late morning deals.

On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.21 per cent down on Monday.&nbsp;

Benchmark equity indices opened on a cautious note Tuesday ahead of the release of key macroeconomic numbers amid selling by foreign and domestic investors. The 30-share Sensex was trading 3.

Benchmark equity indices opened on a cautious note Tuesday ahead of the release of key macroeconomic numbers amid selling by foreign and domestic investors. The 30-share Sensex was trading 3.66 points, or 0.01 per cent, lower at 36,391.37 in early trade. The index had lost 580 points in the previous three sessions. The broader NSE Nifty slipped 3.95 points, or 0.04 per cent, to 10,884.85. Major losers were Infosys, TCS, Hero MotoCorp, HCL Tech, Bajaj Finance, Axis Bank, Bajaj Auto, IndusInd Bank and Maruti, falling up to 2.42 per cent. While the gainers include PowerGrid, Yes Bank, M&M, RIL, Asian Paint, Sun Pharma, Cola India, Vedanta, ONGC, Tata Steel, SBI, L&T, Tata Motors, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, rising up to 1.76 per cent. Brokers said investors were cautious ahead of index of industrial production (IIP) data for December and inflation numbers for January to be released later in the day. "Global trade deal and risk of slowdown in growth continue to give caution, while investors remain focused on CPI inflation and IIP data to get some direction," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services said. Heavy selling by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also dented investor sentiment, they added. On a net basis, FPIs sold shares worth Rs 125.05 crore, while DIIs offlaoded shares worth Rs 232.55 crore on Monday, provisional data showed. Meanwhile, the rupee maintained its strength for the sixth straight day against the US dollar in opening trade. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei rallied 2.03 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.20 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.72 per cent and Korea's Kospi was up 0.37 per cent in their late morning deals. On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.21 per cent down on Monday.

Sensex, Nifty turn cautious ahead of IIP, inflation data releases

Domestic equities ended in the negative terrain for the fourth straight session Tuesday, with the BSE benchmark Sensex falling over 200 points as investors intensified selling towards the fag end of the day, even as global cues remained positive.

Investors sold heavily on reality, IT, FMCG and banking counters ahead of index of industrial production (IIP) data for December and consumer price inflation (CPI) numbers for January to be released later in the day.

Tepid earnings by some more companies and foreign fund outflows also dampened trading sentiments, brokers said.

After opening on a positive note, the BSE Sensex advanced to hit an intraday high of 36,465.40 points in opening trade, driven by a firming trend at other Asian markets.

However, indices failed to hold on to gains as profit-taking re-emerged in the later part of the session, wiping off initial gains, with the BSE Sensex settling 241.41 points, or 0.66 per cent, down at 36,153.62 points.

The gauge had lost 580 points in the previous three sessions.

The broader Nifty, after touching a high (intra-day) of 10,910,90 points, finished at 10,831.40, down 57.40 points, or 0.53 per cent. It also touched a low of 10,823.80 during the day.

Top losers include Hero MotoCorp, HDFC, SBI, Infosys, HCL Tech, ICICI Bank, Bajaj Finance, ONGC, Bajaj Auto and IndusInd Bank, falling up to 2.63 per cent.

On the other hand, Sun Pharma, Coal India, Tata Steel, NTPC, Asian Paints, Vedanta, M&amp;M and RIL were the gainers, rising up to 2 per cent.

Globally, Asian markets ended higher as investors looked to a new round of US-China trade talks as the world's two largest economies would try to resolve the ongoing tariff tiff.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 125.05 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares worth Rs 232.55 crore Monday, provisional data showed.

Domestic equities ended in the negative terrain for the fourth straight session Tuesday, with the BSE benchmark Sensex falling over 200 points as investors intensified selling towards the fag end of the day, even as global cues remained positive.

Domestic equities ended in the negative terrain for the fourth straight session Tuesday, with the BSE benchmark Sensex falling over 200 points as investors intensified selling towards the fag end of the day, even as global cues remained positive. Investors sold heavily on reality, IT, FMCG and banking counters ahead of index of industrial production (IIP) data for December and consumer price inflation (CPI) numbers for January to be released later in the day. Tepid earnings by some more companies and foreign fund outflows also dampened trading sentiments, brokers said. After opening on a positive note, the BSE Sensex advanced to hit an intraday high of 36,465.40 points in opening trade, driven by a firming trend at other Asian markets. However, indices failed to hold on to gains as profit-taking re-emerged in the later part of the session, wiping off initial gains, with the BSE Sensex settling 241.41 points, or 0.66 per cent, down at 36,153.62 points. The gauge had lost 580 points in the previous three sessions. The broader Nifty, after touching a high (intra-day) of 10,910,90 points, finished at 10,831.40, down 57.40 points, or 0.53 per cent. It also touched a low of 10,823.80 during the day. Top losers include Hero MotoCorp, HDFC, SBI, Infosys, HCL Tech, ICICI Bank, Bajaj Finance, ONGC, Bajaj Auto and IndusInd Bank, falling up to 2.63 per cent. On the other hand, Sun Pharma, Coal India, Tata Steel, NTPC, Asian Paints, Vedanta, M&M and RIL were the gainers, rising up to 2 per cent. Globally, Asian markets ended higher as investors looked to a new round of US-China trade talks as the world's two largest economies would try to resolve the ongoing tariff tiff. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 125.05 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares worth Rs 232.55 crore Monday, provisional data showed.

Sensex, Nifty decline ahead of IIP, inflation data releases

The BSE Sensex fell over 150 points and NSE Nifty slipped below the 10,900 level in early trade Monday on losses in auto, banking, power and pharma stocks amid sustained selling by domestic institutional investors and mixed Asian cues on worries about global growth and China-US tariff tiff.

The 30-share barometer was trading 191.15 points, or 0.52 per cent, lower at 36,355.33. The gauge had lost 424.61 points on Friday.

The NSE Nifty was trading down by 48.80 points, or 0.54 per cent, at 10,894.80.

Sectoral indices led by auto, banking, capital goods, consumer durables and healthcare were trading in the negative terrain, falling up to 1.55 per cent.

The laggards were Hero MotoCorp, M&amp;M, ONGC, Vedanta, Coal India, Yes Bank, L&amp;T, ICICI Bank, Asian paint, Maruti Suzuki, Bajaj Auto, ITC, RIL, HUL, IndusBank, SBI, Axis Bank, PowerGrid and Sun Pharma, dropping up to 2.98 per cent.

However, Tata Steel, Kotak Bank, Infosys, TCS, HDFC, HDFC Bank and HCL Tech were trading higher on scattered buying by investors.

"Volatility is likely to continue amid growing concerns over the trade fight between the US and China, also Markets to closely track domestic macroeconomic data like IIP, CPI and WPI scheduled this week," said Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 960.04 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 843.73 crore on Friday, provisional data released by the stock exchanges showed.

In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.13 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index, which reopened after a long week, was up 0.83 per cent in their late morning deals. Japan's financial markets are closed for a public holiday. Korea's Kospi fell 0.16 per cent and Singapore Straits Times was down 0.58 per cent.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.25 per cent lower on Friday.

The BSE Sensex fell over 150 points and NSE Nifty slipped below the 10,900 level in early trade Monday on losses in auto, banking, power and pharma stocks amid sustained selling by domestic institutional investors and mixed Asian cues on worries about global growth and China-US tariff tiff.

The BSE Sensex fell over 150 points and NSE Nifty slipped below the 10,900 level in early trade Monday on losses in auto, banking, power and pharma stocks amid sustained selling by domestic institutional investors and mixed Asian cues on worries about global growth and China-US tariff tiff. The 30-share barometer was trading 191.15 points, or 0.52 per cent, lower at 36,355.33. The gauge had lost 424.61 points on Friday. The NSE Nifty was trading down by 48.80 points, or 0.54 per cent, at 10,894.80. Sectoral indices led by auto, banking, capital goods, consumer durables and healthcare were trading in the negative terrain, falling up to 1.55 per cent. The laggards were Hero MotoCorp, M&M, ONGC, Vedanta, Coal India, Yes Bank, L&T, ICICI Bank, Asian paint, Maruti Suzuki, Bajaj Auto, ITC, RIL, HUL, IndusBank, SBI, Axis Bank, PowerGrid and Sun Pharma, dropping up to 2.98 per cent. However, Tata Steel, Kotak Bank, Infosys, TCS, HDFC, HDFC Bank and HCL Tech were trading higher on scattered buying by investors. "Volatility is likely to continue amid growing concerns over the trade fight between the US and China, also Markets to closely track domestic macroeconomic data like IIP, CPI and WPI scheduled this week," said Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 960.04 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 843.73 crore on Friday, provisional data released by the stock exchanges showed. In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.13 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index, which reopened after a long week, was up 0.83 per cent in their late morning deals. Japan's financial markets are closed for a public holiday. Korea's Kospi fell 0.16 per cent and Singapore Straits Times was down 0.58 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.25 per cent lower on Friday.

Sensex falls over 150 points; Nifty slips below 10,900 level

Rising for the fifth straight day, the rupee firmed up by another 9 paise to 71.22 against the dollar in opening trade Monday on increased selling of the American currency by exporters amid foreign fund inflows.

Forex dealers said weakness in the dollar against some other currencies overseas and foreign capital inflows in the domestic equity markets supported the rupee, but a lower opening of the domestic equity market capped the gains.

At the interbank forex exchange, the rupee started lower at 71.37 and softened to 71.44 against the US dollar, but regained strength to quote 9 paise higher at 71.22 against the last close of 71.31.

According to provisional exchange data, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 843.73 crore on net basis on Friday.

On Friday, the rupee had ended 14 paise higher at 71.31 against the US dollar.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 177.02 points, or 0.44 per cent, to 36,369.46 in early trade Monday.&nbsp;

Rising for the fifth straight day, the rupee firmed up by another 9 paise to 71.22 against the dollar in opening trade Monday on increased selling of the American currency by exporters amid foreign fund inflows.

Rising for the fifth straight day, the rupee firmed up by another 9 paise to 71.22 against the dollar in opening trade Monday on increased selling of the American currency by exporters amid foreign fund inflows. Forex dealers said weakness in the dollar against some other currencies overseas and foreign capital inflows in the domestic equity markets supported the rupee, but a lower opening of the domestic equity market capped the gains. At the interbank forex exchange, the rupee started lower at 71.37 and softened to 71.44 against the US dollar, but regained strength to quote 9 paise higher at 71.22 against the last close of 71.31. According to provisional exchange data, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 843.73 crore on net basis on Friday. On Friday, the rupee had ended 14 paise higher at 71.31 against the US dollar. Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 177.02 points, or 0.44 per cent, to 36,369.46 in early trade Monday.

Rupee gains 9 paise against dollar in early trade

Stock market indices extended their fall for yet another session Monday, with the BSE Sensex falling over 150 points and the NSE Nifty slipping below the 10,900 marks, as selling pressure continued in the market despite a rebound in global stocks.

Brokers said auto sector stocks were the centre of nervous selling, triggered by dismal quarterly earnings posted by leading automakers.

The 30-share barometer after shuttling between 36,588.41 and 36,300.48 points, finally ended at 36,395.03, down 151.45 points, or 0.41 per cent. The gauge had lost nearly 429 points in the previous two sessions.

The 50-scrip NSE Nifty finished 49.80 points, or 0.50 per cent, down at 10,888.80, after touching a low of 10,857.10 and a high of 10,930.90 during the session.

"Selling pressure continued in the market despite a rebound in the global market as investors turned risk-averse due to an upcoming election," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services.

Quarterly results have not surprised investors while the scope of the downgrade in earnings further dampened the sentiment, he said adding that "global trade deal and risk of a slowdown in growth continue to give caution while investors remain focused on tomorrow's CPI inflation and IIP data to get some direction."

Auto segment stocks continued to trade in the red with M&amp;M emerging as the biggest loser in the Sensex pack by plunging nearly 5 per cent after it reported 11.44 per cent decline in standalone profit after tax (PAT) at Rs 1,076.81 crore on Friday for the third quarter ended December 31, 2018.

Meanwhile, domestic passenger vehicle (PV) sales declined for the third month in a row in January, dropping 1.87 per cent, as manufacturers continued to reduce inventory at dealers following a tepid festive season sales, according to SIAM.

Other losers include ONGC, Bajaj Finance, Reliance, SBI, Hero MotoCorp, ICICI Bank, L&amp;T, Vedanta, Yes Bank and Axis Bank, falling up to 2.54 per cent.

Shares of Dr Reddy's Lab faced the selling pressure, plunging about 6 per cent after the drugmaker's Hyderabad-based plant was inspected by the US Food and Drug Administration on Friday.

However, Tata Steel emerged as the top gainer in the Sensex kitty, climbing 2.31 per cent the company on Friday reported a 54.33 per cent jump in consolidated net profit to Rs 1,753.07 crore during the quarter ended on December 31, 2019, helped by higher income.

Other gainers include PowerGrid, HCL Tech, Kotak Bank and Maruti, rising up to 1.36 per cent.

Small and mid-cap indices fell 1.51 per cent and 1.47 per cent, respectively.

Among sectoral indices, the healthcare index suffered the most by plunging 1.88 per cent, followed by capital goods by falling 1.46 per cent.

Others indices, led by consumer durables, oil &amp; gas, auto PSU, infrastructure, realty, banks, FMCG and power indices, also ended in the negative terrain, falling up to 1.46 per cent.

Bucking the trend, tech and IT indices ended in the green.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 960.04 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 843.73 crore on Friday, provisional data released by the stock exchanges showed.

In the Asian region, the Shanghai Composite Index, which re-opened after a week, ended 1.36 per cent higher, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 0.50 per cent. Korea's Kospi too ended 0.17 per cent higher. Japan's financial markets were shut for a public holiday.

European shares were quoting higher in their early deals. Paris CAC 40 was up 0.77 per cent AND Frankfurt's DAX rose 0.67 per cent. London's FTSE was also trading at 0.65 per cent higher.

Stock market indices extended their fall for yet another session Monday, with the BSE Sensex falling over 150 points and the NSE Nifty slipping below the 10,900 marks, as selling pressure continued in the market despite a rebound in global stocks.

Stock market indices extended their fall for yet another session Monday, with the BSE Sensex falling over 150 points and the NSE Nifty slipping below the 10,900 marks, as selling pressure continued in the market despite a rebound in global stocks. Brokers said auto sector stocks were the centre of nervous selling, triggered by dismal quarterly earnings posted by leading automakers. The 30-share barometer after shuttling between 36,588.41 and 36,300.48 points, finally ended at 36,395.03, down 151.45 points, or 0.41 per cent. The gauge had lost nearly 429 points in the previous two sessions. The 50-scrip NSE Nifty finished 49.80 points, or 0.50 per cent, down at 10,888.80, after touching a low of 10,857.10 and a high of 10,930.90 during the session. "Selling pressure continued in the market despite a rebound in the global market as investors turned risk-averse due to an upcoming election," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services. Quarterly results have not surprised investors while the scope of the downgrade in earnings further dampened the sentiment, he said adding that "global trade deal and risk of a slowdown in growth continue to give caution while investors remain focused on tomorrow's CPI inflation and IIP data to get some direction." Auto segment stocks continued to trade in the red with M&M emerging as the biggest loser in the Sensex pack by plunging nearly 5 per cent after it reported 11.44 per cent decline in standalone profit after tax (PAT) at Rs 1,076.81 crore on Friday for the third quarter ended December 31, 2018. Meanwhile, domestic passenger vehicle (PV) sales declined for the third month in a row in January, dropping 1.87 per cent, as manufacturers continued to reduce inventory at dealers following a tepid festive season sales, according to SIAM. Other losers include ONGC, Bajaj Finance, Reliance, SBI, Hero MotoCorp, ICICI Bank, L&T, Vedanta, Yes Bank and Axis Bank, falling up to 2.54 per cent. Shares of Dr Reddy's Lab faced the selling pressure, plunging about 6 per cent after the drugmaker's Hyderabad-based plant was inspected by the US Food and Drug Administration on Friday. However, Tata Steel emerged as the top gainer in the Sensex kitty, climbing 2.31 per cent the company on Friday reported a 54.33 per cent jump in consolidated net profit to Rs 1,753.07 crore during the quarter ended on December 31, 2019, helped by higher income. Other gainers include PowerGrid, HCL Tech, Kotak Bank and Maruti, rising up to 1.36 per cent. Small and mid-cap indices fell 1.51 per cent and 1.47 per cent, respectively. Among sectoral indices, the healthcare index suffered the most by plunging 1.88 per cent, followed by capital goods by falling 1.46 per cent. Others indices, led by consumer durables, oil & gas, auto PSU, infrastructure, realty, banks, FMCG and power indices, also ended in the negative terrain, falling up to 1.46 per cent. Bucking the trend, tech and IT indices ended in the green. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 960.04 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 843.73 crore on Friday, provisional data released by the stock exchanges showed. In the Asian region, the Shanghai Composite Index, which re-opened after a week, ended 1.36 per cent higher, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 0.50 per cent. Korea's Kospi too ended 0.17 per cent higher. Japan's financial markets were shut for a public holiday. European shares were quoting higher in their early deals. Paris CAC 40 was up 0.77 per cent AND Frankfurt's DAX rose 0.67 per cent. London's FTSE was also trading at 0.65 per cent higher.

Sensex drops 151 points on heavy selloff in auto, bank stocks

BSE benchmark Sensex dropped over 200 points in early trade Friday led by heavy losses in Tata Motors, and weak cues from global markets on renewed concerns over US-China trade tiff.

The 30-share index was trading 140.62 points, or 0.38 per cent, lower at 36,830.47. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty dropped 33.40 points, or 0.30 per cent to 11,036.00.

On Thursday, the Sensex ended 4.14 points, or 0.01 per cent, lower at 36,971.09; while the broader Nifty settled 6.95 points, or 0.06 per cent, higher at 11,069.40.

In the morning session on Friday, Tata Motors was the biggest losers on both indices, cracking over 14 per cent, after the auto major reported its biggest-ever quarterly net loss of Rs 26,960.8 crore for the third quarter ended December 31, hit by one-time asset impairment in its struggling British arm Jaguar Land Rover.

This is the third consecutive quarterly loss reported by the company, which had registered a net profit of Rs 1,214.6 crore in the October-December quarter of 2017-18.

Other losers include Sun Pharma, Vedanta, L&amp;T, SBI, ICICI Bank, M&amp;M, Tata Steel, Infosys, HDFC and Tata Steel, falling up to 1.58 per cent. 
On the other hand, PowerGrid, HCL Tech, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Finance, NTPC, Coal India and RIL were the top gainers, rising up to 1.38 per cent.

According to traders, besides heavy losses in Tata Motors, investor sentiment turned weak as fears of a global economic slowdown resurfaced after US President Donald Trump said that he doesn't expect to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping before a March 1 deadline in trade war negotiations between the two economic superpowers.

A top White House adviser Thursday said Washington and Beijing were still a "sizeable distance" apart in the trade talks, and no date has been set for a meeting between the countries' leaders.

The remarks helped deepen losses on Wall Street, which opened lower on Thursday following downbeat economic forecasts for major European economies.

Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.87 per cent lower on Thursday. 
Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei plunged 1.63 per cent, Korea's Kospi cracked 1.12 per cent, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.47 per cent in their early sessions on Friday.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 418.01 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 294.11 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 5 paise against US dollar to 71.40. 
The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.46 per cent to USD 61.17 per barrel.&nbsp;

BSE benchmark Sensex dropped over 200 points in early trade Friday led by heavy losses in Tata Motors, and weak cues from global markets on renewed concerns over US-China trade tiff.

BSE benchmark Sensex dropped over 200 points in early trade Friday led by heavy losses in Tata Motors, and weak cues from global markets on renewed concerns over US-China trade tiff. The 30-share index was trading 140.62 points, or 0.38 per cent, lower at 36,830.47. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty dropped 33.40 points, or 0.30 per cent to 11,036.00. On Thursday, the Sensex ended 4.14 points, or 0.01 per cent, lower at 36,971.09; while the broader Nifty settled 6.95 points, or 0.06 per cent, higher at 11,069.40. In the morning session on Friday, Tata Motors was the biggest losers on both indices, cracking over 14 per cent, after the auto major reported its biggest-ever quarterly net loss of Rs 26,960.8 crore for the third quarter ended December 31, hit by one-time asset impairment in its struggling British arm Jaguar Land Rover. This is the third consecutive quarterly loss reported by the company, which had registered a net profit of Rs 1,214.6 crore in the October-December quarter of 2017-18. Other losers include Sun Pharma, Vedanta, L&T, SBI, ICICI Bank, M&M, Tata Steel, Infosys, HDFC and Tata Steel, falling up to 1.58 per cent. On the other hand, PowerGrid, HCL Tech, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Finance, NTPC, Coal India and RIL were the top gainers, rising up to 1.38 per cent. According to traders, besides heavy losses in Tata Motors, investor sentiment turned weak as fears of a global economic slowdown resurfaced after US President Donald Trump said that he doesn't expect to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping before a March 1 deadline in trade war negotiations between the two economic superpowers. A top White House adviser Thursday said Washington and Beijing were still a "sizeable distance" apart in the trade talks, and no date has been set for a meeting between the countries' leaders. The remarks helped deepen losses on Wall Street, which opened lower on Thursday following downbeat economic forecasts for major European economies. Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.87 per cent lower on Thursday. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei plunged 1.63 per cent, Korea's Kospi cracked 1.12 per cent, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.47 per cent in their early sessions on Friday. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 418.01 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 294.11 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 5 paise against US dollar to 71.40. The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.46 per cent to USD 61.17 per barrel.

Sensex drops over 200 points; Tata Motors tanks 14 per cent

BSE benchmark Sensex plummeted over 424 points Friday led by a sharp selloff in metal and auto stocks amid negative cues from the global markets on renewed concerns over the US-China trade tiff.

The 30-share index cracked 424.61 points, or 1.15 per cent, to finish at 36,546.48, while the broader NSE Nifty slumped 125.80 points, or 1.14 per cent to 10,943.60.

Sudden selling in metal and auto counters led to a sharp drop at the fag end of the session, traders said.

Tata Motors was the biggest loser on Sensex, cracking 17.93 per cent, after the auto major reported its biggest-ever quarterly net loss of Rs 26,960.8 crore for the December quarter, hit by one-time asset impairment in its struggling British arm Jaguar Land Rover.

Other losers included Vedanta, Tata Steel, NTPC, ONGC, L&amp;T, M&amp;M, Coal India, Maruti, PowerGrid, Axis Bank, ITC and HDFC, dropping up to 5.75 per cent.

On the other hand, Kotak Bank, Bharti Airtel, HCL Tech, Bajaj Finance and Hero MotoCorp rose up to 0.95 per cent.

The BSE Metal index plunged 3.42 per cent, while the auto gauge shed 3.37 per cent.

Sectorally, FMCG, banking and pharma indices also ended in the red. Realty was the only gainer.

Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 418.01 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 294.11 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

On the global front, fears of an economic slowdown resurfaced after US President Donald Trump said he does not expect to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping before the March 1 deadline in trade war negotiations between the two superpowers.

A top White House adviser Thursday said Washington and Beijing were still a "sizeable distance" apart in the trade talks, and no date has been set for a meeting between the countries' leaders.

Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.87 per cent lower on Thursday.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei cracked 2.19 per cent, while Korea's Kospi dropped 1.20 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.16 per cent.

In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.10 per cent, while Paris CAC 40 rose 0.12 per cent in late morning deals. London's FTSE was up 0.19 per cent.

The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 32 paise against the US dollar to 71.13 intra-day.

The benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.28 per cent to US $61.80 per barrel.

BSE benchmark Sensex plummeted over 424 points Friday led by a sharp selloff in metal and auto stocks amid negative cues from the global markets on renewed concerns over the US-China trade tiff.

BSE benchmark Sensex plummeted over 424 points Friday led by a sharp selloff in metal and auto stocks amid negative cues from the global markets on renewed concerns over the US-China trade tiff. The 30-share index cracked 424.61 points, or 1.15 per cent, to finish at 36,546.48, while the broader NSE Nifty slumped 125.80 points, or 1.14 per cent to 10,943.60. Sudden selling in metal and auto counters led to a sharp drop at the fag end of the session, traders said. Tata Motors was the biggest loser on Sensex, cracking 17.93 per cent, after the auto major reported its biggest-ever quarterly net loss of Rs 26,960.8 crore for the December quarter, hit by one-time asset impairment in its struggling British arm Jaguar Land Rover. Other losers included Vedanta, Tata Steel, NTPC, ONGC, L&T, M&M, Coal India, Maruti, PowerGrid, Axis Bank, ITC and HDFC, dropping up to 5.75 per cent. On the other hand, Kotak Bank, Bharti Airtel, HCL Tech, Bajaj Finance and Hero MotoCorp rose up to 0.95 per cent. The BSE Metal index plunged 3.42 per cent, while the auto gauge shed 3.37 per cent. Sectorally, FMCG, banking and pharma indices also ended in the red. Realty was the only gainer. Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 418.01 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 294.11 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. On the global front, fears of an economic slowdown resurfaced after US President Donald Trump said he does not expect to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping before the March 1 deadline in trade war negotiations between the two superpowers. A top White House adviser Thursday said Washington and Beijing were still a "sizeable distance" apart in the trade talks, and no date has been set for a meeting between the countries' leaders. Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.87 per cent lower on Thursday. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei cracked 2.19 per cent, while Korea's Kospi dropped 1.20 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.16 per cent. In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.10 per cent, while Paris CAC 40 rose 0.12 per cent in late morning deals. London's FTSE was up 0.19 per cent. The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 32 paise against the US dollar to 71.13 intra-day. The benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.28 per cent to US $61.80 per barrel.

Sensex plunges 424 points; Tata Motors crashes 17%

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

Benchmark equity indices gave up gains to end almost flat on Thursday as investors booked profits at higher levels, after the Reserve Bank surprisingly reduced the repo rate by 0.25 per cent.

After rising nearly 200 points, the 30-share BSE Sensex ended 4.14 points, or 0.01 per cent, lower at 36,971.09; while the broader Nifty settled 6.95 points, or 0.06 per cent, higher at 11,069.40.

India VIX, the fear gauge for domestic equities, rose 1.40 per cent.

Rate-sensitive stocks swung between gains and losses after the rate-cut announcement, with BSE realty index slipping 0.02 per cent, Bankex gaining 0.04 per cent and auto index soaring 1.77 per cent.

The Reserve Bank of India cut the repo rate by 0.25 per cent to 6.25 per cent on expectation that inflation will stay within its target range, a move that may make home and other loans cheaper.

The RBI, under its new Governor Shaktikanta Das, changed the monetary policy stance to 'neutral' from the earlier 'calibrated tightening', signalling further softening of rates if inflation remain benign.

From stock market point of view, the policy decision is already discounted in indices. Traders are looking to book some profit from here, which can push indices to lower levels, said Debabrata Bhattacharjee, Head of Research, CapitalAim.

"In a medium-term, market has always reacted positively to a rate cut. Since we are in an environment where RBI is now neutral with a focus to keep growth in an economy and tab on inflation, we may attract long term money that can move the market.

"This is a positive event for the market though on a cautious note - we have an election in the next three months. So that needs to be taken into account," Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research, said.

In the Sensex pack, Sun Pharma was the biggest gainer, rallying 4.48 per cent, followed by Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Coal India, Hero MotoCorp, Maruti and HCL Tech, rising up to 3.01 per cent.

While, RIL, PowerGrid, HDFC, L&amp;T, IndusInd Bank, NTPC and Bajaj Finance declined up to 1.50 per cent.

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.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei fell 0.59 per cent, while Korea's Kospi ended flat. Bourses in China were closed for Lunar New Year break.

In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.48 per cent and Paris CAC 40 fell 0.30 per cent in late morning deals; while London's FTSE was up 0.18 per cent.

The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 11 paise against the US dollar to 71.45 intra-day.

The benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.06 per cent to US $62.73 per barrel.&nbsp;

Benchmark equity indices gave up gains to end almost flat on Thursday as investors booked profits at higher levels, after the Reserve Bank surprisingly reduced the repo rate by 0.

Benchmark equity indices gave up gains to end almost flat on Thursday as investors booked profits at higher levels, after the Reserve Bank surprisingly reduced the repo rate by 0.25 per cent. After rising nearly 200 points, the 30-share BSE Sensex ended 4.14 points, or 0.01 per cent, lower at 36,971.09; while the broader Nifty settled 6.95 points, or 0.06 per cent, higher at 11,069.40. India VIX, the fear gauge for domestic equities, rose 1.40 per cent. Rate-sensitive stocks swung between gains and losses after the rate-cut announcement, with BSE realty index slipping 0.02 per cent, Bankex gaining 0.04 per cent and auto index soaring 1.77 per cent. The Reserve Bank of India cut the repo rate by 0.25 per cent to 6.25 per cent on expectation that inflation will stay within its target range, a move that may make home and other loans cheaper. The RBI, under its new Governor Shaktikanta Das, changed the monetary policy stance to 'neutral' from the earlier 'calibrated tightening', signalling further softening of rates if inflation remain benign. From stock market point of view, the policy decision is already discounted in indices. Traders are looking to book some profit from here, which can push indices to lower levels, said Debabrata Bhattacharjee, Head of Research, CapitalAim. "In a medium-term, market has always reacted positively to a rate cut. Since we are in an environment where RBI is now neutral with a focus to keep growth in an economy and tab on inflation, we may attract long term money that can move the market. "This is a positive event for the market though on a cautious note - we have an election in the next three months. So that needs to be taken into account," Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research, said. In the Sensex pack, Sun Pharma was the biggest gainer, rallying 4.48 per cent, followed by Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Coal India, Hero MotoCorp, Maruti and HCL Tech, rising up to 3.01 per cent. While, RIL, PowerGrid, HDFC, L&T, IndusInd Bank, NTPC and Bajaj Finance declined up to 1.50 per cent. 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. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei fell 0.59 per cent, while Korea's Kospi ended flat. Bourses in China were closed for Lunar New Year break. In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.48 per cent and Paris CAC 40 fell 0.30 per cent in late morning deals; while London's FTSE was up 0.18 per cent. The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 11 paise against the US dollar to 71.45 intra-day. The benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.06 per cent to US $62.73 per barrel.

Market ends flat after RBI rate cut; rate sensitive stocks turn volatile

The rupee Wednesday appreciated by 8 paise to 71.49 in early trade on the forex market amid a positive opening in domestic equities and fresh foreign fund inflows.

Forex traders said investors were cautious ahead RBI's Monetary Policy Committee outcome scheduled for February 7.

Moreover, rising crude prices capped the gains for the domestic unit.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange, the rupee opened higher at 71.56 then gained further ground to touch 71.49 against the US $, showing a gain of 8 paise over its previous closing.

In a very volatile trade, the domestic currency also touched a low of 71.60, showing a loss of 3 paise over its last close.

On Tuesday, the rupee had settled 23 paise higher at 71.57 against the US $.

Foreign funds purchased shares worth Rs 420.65 crore on a net basis, and domestic institutional investors bought shares worth Rs 194.31 crore Tuesday, provisional data showed.

The global benchmark, Brent crude oil was trading at the US $ 62.02 per barrel, higher by 0.06 per cent.

Meanwhile, the domestic equity market opened on a higher note. The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex was trading at 36,833.84, up 217.03 points in early trade. The wide-based Nifty was also trading up by 65 points at 10,999.35.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The rupee Wednesday appreciated by 8 paise to 71.49 in early trade on the forex market amid a positive opening in domestic equities and fresh foreign fund inflows.

The rupee Wednesday appreciated by 8 paise to 71.49 in early trade on the forex market amid a positive opening in domestic equities and fresh foreign fund inflows. Forex traders said investors were cautious ahead RBI's Monetary Policy Committee outcome scheduled for February 7. Moreover, rising crude prices capped the gains for the domestic unit. At the Interbank Foreign Exchange, the rupee opened higher at 71.56 then gained further ground to touch 71.49 against the US $, showing a gain of 8 paise over its previous closing. In a very volatile trade, the domestic currency also touched a low of 71.60, showing a loss of 3 paise over its last close. On Tuesday, the rupee had settled 23 paise higher at 71.57 against the US $. Foreign funds purchased shares worth Rs 420.65 crore on a net basis, and domestic institutional investors bought shares worth Rs 194.31 crore Tuesday, provisional data showed. The global benchmark, Brent crude oil was trading at the US $ 62.02 per barrel, higher by 0.06 per cent. Meanwhile, the domestic equity market opened on a higher note. The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex was trading at 36,833.84, up 217.03 points in early trade. The wide-based Nifty was also trading up by 65 points at 10,999.35.

Rupee gains 8 paise to 71.49 vs US dollar

BSE benchmark Sensex jumped over 250 points and NSE Nifty breached the 11,000 marks in early trade Wednesday led by gains in IT and metal stocks amid heavy buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors.

The 30-share index was trading 255.89 points or 0.70 per cent, higher at 36,872.70.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty reclaimed the 11,000 marks, rallying 81.40 points, or 0.74 per cent, 11,015.75.

On Tuesday, the Sensex ended 34.07 points, or 0.09 per cent, higher at 36,616.81; and the NSE Nifty edged up 22.10 points, or 0.20 per cent, to 10,934.35.

"The Indian market is embracing for the monetary policy to be released on February 7; and a majority of the economists now expect status quo against a rate cut sometime back," said Paras Bothra, President, Equity Research, Ashika Group.

The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) began its three-day review meet on Tuesday.

"Foreign participation has certainly gained pace after the US Fed's patient view and is expected to support stocks with strong underlying fundamentals," he added.

In the morning session on Tuesday, HCL Tech, NTPC, ONGC, RIL, Infosys, ICICI Bank, Asian Paints, Bajaj Finance, ITC and HDFC were the top gainers in the Sensex pack, rising up to 2 per cent.

Meanwhile, Hero Bharti Airtel, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors, Vedanta and L&amp;T were the losers, shedding up to 1.33 per cent.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 420.65 crore Tuesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 194.31 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.41 per cent. Bourses in China and Korea remained closed for the Lunar New Year.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.68 per cent higher on Tuesday.

The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 5 paise against US dollar to 71.52.

The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.10 per cent to USD 61.92 per barrel.

BSE benchmark Sensex jumped over 250 points and NSE Nifty breached the 11,000 marks in early trade Wednesday led by gains in IT and metal stocks amid heavy buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors.

BSE benchmark Sensex jumped over 250 points and NSE Nifty breached the 11,000 marks in early trade Wednesday led by gains in IT and metal stocks amid heavy buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors. The 30-share index was trading 255.89 points or 0.70 per cent, higher at 36,872.70. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty reclaimed the 11,000 marks, rallying 81.40 points, or 0.74 per cent, 11,015.75. On Tuesday, the Sensex ended 34.07 points, or 0.09 per cent, higher at 36,616.81; and the NSE Nifty edged up 22.10 points, or 0.20 per cent, to 10,934.35. "The Indian market is embracing for the monetary policy to be released on February 7; and a majority of the economists now expect status quo against a rate cut sometime back," said Paras Bothra, President, Equity Research, Ashika Group. The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) began its three-day review meet on Tuesday. "Foreign participation has certainly gained pace after the US Fed's patient view and is expected to support stocks with strong underlying fundamentals," he added. In the morning session on Tuesday, HCL Tech, NTPC, ONGC, RIL, Infosys, ICICI Bank, Asian Paints, Bajaj Finance, ITC and HDFC were the top gainers in the Sensex pack, rising up to 2 per cent. Meanwhile, Hero Bharti Airtel, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors, Vedanta and L&T were the losers, shedding up to 1.33 per cent. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 420.65 crore Tuesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 194.31 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.41 per cent. Bourses in China and Korea remained closed for the Lunar New Year. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.68 per cent higher on Tuesday. The rupee, meanwhile, appreciated 5 paise against US dollar to 71.52. The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.10 per cent to USD 61.92 per barrel.

Sensex jumps over 250 points; Nifty breaches 11,000 mark

The BSE benchmark Sensex rallied over 358 points Wednesday while the NSE Nifty recaptured the key 11,000 mark as investors wagered on the RBI changing its policy stance to neutral.

The 30-share Sensex soared 358.42 points, or 0.98 per cent, to close at 36,975.23. The broader Nifty jumped 128.10 points, or 1.17 per cent, to 11,062.45.

Investor sentiment was bullish ahead of the Reserve Bank of India's policy outcome, scheduled for Thursday, analysts said.

The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) began its three-day meet Tuesday to decide on key rates.

According to experts, the MPC is likely to change its policy stance to 'neutral' from the current 'calibrated tightening' on low inflation footprint but would refrain from cutting interest rates due to fiscal challenges and rising crude oil prices.

BI will have room to provide a dovish tilt to the upcoming policy along with a change in stance, a Kotak report said.

In the Sensex pack, Bajaj Finance, Tata Steel, ONGC, Bajaj Auto, Sun Pharma, NPTC, Coal India, Maruti, Tata Motors, ICICI Bank and Reliance surged up to 4.34 per cent.

On the other hand, Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank fell up to 0.54 per cent.

Broader indices, however, ended on a mixed note, with the BSE LargeCap rallying 1.13 per cent, BSE MidCap slipping 0.12 per cent and BSE SmallCap inching up 0.05 per cent.

Sectorally, banking, pharma, metal and IT stocks led the rally, jumping over 2 per cent.

Sustained buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors also boosted trading sentiment, traders said.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 420.65 crore Tuesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 194.31 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.14 per cent. Bourses in China and Korea remained closed for the Lunar New Year holidays.

In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.43 per cent while Paris CAC 40 fell 0.40 per cent in late morning deals. London's FTSE shed 0.32 per cent.

The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 5 paise against the US dollar to 71.62 intra-day.

The benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.76 per cent to US $61.51 per barrel.

The BSE benchmark Sensex rallied over 358 points Wednesday while the NSE Nifty recaptured the key 11,000 mark as investors wagered on the RBI changing its policy stance to neutral.

The BSE benchmark Sensex rallied over 358 points Wednesday while the NSE Nifty recaptured the key 11,000 mark as investors wagered on the RBI changing its policy stance to neutral. The 30-share Sensex soared 358.42 points, or 0.98 per cent, to close at 36,975.23. The broader Nifty jumped 128.10 points, or 1.17 per cent, to 11,062.45. Investor sentiment was bullish ahead of the Reserve Bank of India's policy outcome, scheduled for Thursday, analysts said. The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) began its three-day meet Tuesday to decide on key rates. According to experts, the MPC is likely to change its policy stance to 'neutral' from the current 'calibrated tightening' on low inflation footprint but would refrain from cutting interest rates due to fiscal challenges and rising crude oil prices. BI will have room to provide a dovish tilt to the upcoming policy along with a change in stance, a Kotak report said. In the Sensex pack, Bajaj Finance, Tata Steel, ONGC, Bajaj Auto, Sun Pharma, NPTC, Coal India, Maruti, Tata Motors, ICICI Bank and Reliance surged up to 4.34 per cent. On the other hand, Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank fell up to 0.54 per cent. Broader indices, however, ended on a mixed note, with the BSE LargeCap rallying 1.13 per cent, BSE MidCap slipping 0.12 per cent and BSE SmallCap inching up 0.05 per cent. Sectorally, banking, pharma, metal and IT stocks led the rally, jumping over 2 per cent. Sustained buying by domestic and foreign institutional investors also boosted trading sentiment, traders said. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 420.65 crore Tuesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 194.31 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.14 per cent. Bourses in China and Korea remained closed for the Lunar New Year holidays. In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.43 per cent while Paris CAC 40 fell 0.40 per cent in late morning deals. London's FTSE shed 0.32 per cent. The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 5 paise against the US dollar to 71.62 intra-day. The benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.76 per cent to US $61.51 per barrel.

Sensex soars 358 points; Nifty reclaims 11,000-mark

Shares flitted between negative and positive territory on Tuesday as investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meet, while gains in automobile stocks offset declines in telecom companies.

According to a Reuters poll of 65 analysts, two-thirds have said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would hold its repo rate, a surprise change of stance following the appointment of Shaktikanta Das as the central bank chief in December. The central bank will start its three-day policy meet later in the session.

The 'neutral' stance would be in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party's aim for a stimulative monetary policy ahead of national elections in May.

The RBI's mandate is to control price pressures, which historically have been difficult to tame in India.

However, analysts feel the possibility of a rejig in the indexes by global index provider MSCI Inc could impact some of the large-cap players.

"If MSCI does an index rejig, then the weight of some of the stocks could come down," said Deven Choksey, founder, KR Choksey Investment Managers.

Companies in the American depositary receipts (ADR) and global depositary receipt (GDR) lists such as Tata Motors Ltd and Infosys Ltd could be affected, Choksey added.

Tata Motors was trading 2.1 per cent lower, while Infosys slipped 0.9 per cent.

The broader Nifty was up 0.02 per cent at 10,914.55, as of 0605 GMT, while the benchmark Sensex was largely flat at 36,580.64.

Telecom bellwether Bharti Airtel Ltd fell as much as 4.5 per cent after rating agency Moody's Investor Service downgraded some of the company's notes.

Most automobile majors were in the green with Hero MotoCorp Ltd and Mahindra &amp; Mahindra Ltd gaining 1.8 per cent and 2.1 per cent, respectively.

Consumer giant Hindustan Unilever Ltd was among the biggest boost on the NSE index, rising as much as 1.4 per cent while extending gains to a fourth session.

IT stocks such as Wipro Ltd dropped 0.8 per cent, while Tech Mahindra Ltd, which is scheduled to report its quarterly results later in the day, fell nearly 1 per cent.

Reliance Communications Ltd dived as much as 16.7 per cent, a day after it sought fast-track resolution of its debt through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), the country`s court that deals with bankruptcy cases.

Shares flitted between negative and positive territory on Tuesday as investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meet, while gains in automobile stocks offset declines in telecom companies.

Shares flitted between negative and positive territory on Tuesday as investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meet, while gains in automobile stocks offset declines in telecom companies. According to a Reuters poll of 65 analysts, two-thirds have said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would hold its repo rate, a surprise change of stance following the appointment of Shaktikanta Das as the central bank chief in December. The central bank will start its three-day policy meet later in the session. The 'neutral' stance would be in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party's aim for a stimulative monetary policy ahead of national elections in May. The RBI's mandate is to control price pressures, which historically have been difficult to tame in India. However, analysts feel the possibility of a rejig in the indexes by global index provider MSCI Inc could impact some of the large-cap players. "If MSCI does an index rejig, then the weight of some of the stocks could come down," said Deven Choksey, founder, KR Choksey Investment Managers. Companies in the American depositary receipts (ADR) and global depositary receipt (GDR) lists such as Tata Motors Ltd and Infosys Ltd could be affected, Choksey added. Tata Motors was trading 2.1 per cent lower, while Infosys slipped 0.9 per cent. The broader Nifty was up 0.02 per cent at 10,914.55, as of 0605 GMT, while the benchmark Sensex was largely flat at 36,580.64. Telecom bellwether Bharti Airtel Ltd fell as much as 4.5 per cent after rating agency Moody's Investor Service downgraded some of the company's notes. Most automobile majors were in the green with Hero MotoCorp Ltd and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd gaining 1.8 per cent and 2.1 per cent, respectively. Consumer giant Hindustan Unilever Ltd was among the biggest boost on the NSE index, rising as much as 1.4 per cent while extending gains to a fourth session. IT stocks such as Wipro Ltd dropped 0.8 per cent, while Tech Mahindra Ltd, which is scheduled to report its quarterly results later in the day, fell nearly 1 per cent. Reliance Communications Ltd dived as much as 16.7 per cent, a day after it sought fast-track resolution of its debt through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), the country`s court that deals with bankruptcy cases.

Sensex, Nifty subdued ahead of RBI policy meet

Indian shares ended slightly higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in consumer stocks, while investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meeting outcome.

According to a Reuters poll of 65 analysts, two-thirds have said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would hold its repo rate, a surprise change of stance following the appointment of Shaktikanta Das as the central bank chief in December.&nbsp;

The broader Nifty closed 0.20 per cent higher at 10,934.35, while the benchmark Sensex edged up 0.09 per cent at 36,616.81.

Both indexes closed higher for a fourth straight session.

Titan Co Ltd extended gains to close 4 per cent firmer after it posted upbeat quarterly results on Friday. Financial stocks also climbed, with IndusInd Bank ending 2.47 per cent higher.&nbsp;

Indian shares ended slightly higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in consumer stocks, while investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meeting outcome.

Indian shares ended slightly higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in consumer stocks, while investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meeting outcome. According to a Reuters poll of 65 analysts, two-thirds have said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would hold its repo rate, a surprise change of stance following the appointment of Shaktikanta Das as the central bank chief in December. The broader Nifty closed 0.20 per cent higher at 10,934.35, while the benchmark Sensex edged up 0.09 per cent at 36,616.81. Both indexes closed higher for a fourth straight session. Titan Co Ltd extended gains to close 4 per cent firmer after it posted upbeat quarterly results on Friday. Financial stocks also climbed, with IndusInd Bank ending 2.47 per cent higher.

Sensex, Nifty end firmer as consumer, financials boost

The BSE benchmark Sensex Monday fell over 100 points tracking selloff in banking, auto and metal stocks amid mixed cues from global markets.

The 30-share index was trading 109.53 points, or 0.30 per cent, lower at 36,359.90.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 31.75 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 10,861.90.

On Friday, however, key indices finished with robust gains Friday after the government made a big populist push in its final budget before elections, even as some investors fretted about the fiscal impact of farm sops and tax rebates.

The BSE Sensex had climbed 212.74 points, or 0.59 per cent, to finish at 36,469.43, while the broader NSE Nifty rose 62.70 points, or 0.58 per cent, to 10,893.65.

Top gainers in the Sensex pack include ONGC, RIL, HCL Tech, Vedanta, HUL, Coal India, HDFC Bank, HDFC, TCS and Infosys, rising up to 2.39 per cent. 
On the other hand, Yes Bank, Tata Steel, Hero MotoCorp, ICICI Bank, Bharti Airtel, IndusInd Bank, M&amp;M, PowerGrid and Tata Motors were the top losers, falling up to 3.15 per cent.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 1,315.89 crore Friday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 5.07 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 1.30 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.02 per cent, and Japan's Nikkei gained 0.53 per cent; while Kospi slipped 0.06 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.26 per cent higher on Friday.

The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 37 paise against US dollar to 71.64.

The benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.16 per cent to USD 62.65 per barrel.

The BSE benchmark Sensex Monday fell over 100 points tracking selloff in banking, auto and metal stocks amid mixed cues from global markets. The 30-share index was trading 109.

The BSE benchmark Sensex Monday fell over 100 points tracking selloff in banking, auto and metal stocks amid mixed cues from global markets. The 30-share index was trading 109.53 points, or 0.30 per cent, lower at 36,359.90. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 31.75 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 10,861.90. On Friday, however, key indices finished with robust gains Friday after the government made a big populist push in its final budget before elections, even as some investors fretted about the fiscal impact of farm sops and tax rebates. The BSE Sensex had climbed 212.74 points, or 0.59 per cent, to finish at 36,469.43, while the broader NSE Nifty rose 62.70 points, or 0.58 per cent, to 10,893.65. Top gainers in the Sensex pack include ONGC, RIL, HCL Tech, Vedanta, HUL, Coal India, HDFC Bank, HDFC, TCS and Infosys, rising up to 2.39 per cent. On the other hand, Yes Bank, Tata Steel, Hero MotoCorp, ICICI Bank, Bharti Airtel, IndusInd Bank, M&M, PowerGrid and Tata Motors were the top losers, falling up to 3.15 per cent. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 1,315.89 crore Friday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 5.07 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 1.30 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.02 per cent, and Japan's Nikkei gained 0.53 per cent; while Kospi slipped 0.06 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.26 per cent higher on Friday. The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 37 paise against US dollar to 71.64. The benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.16 per cent to USD 62.65 per barrel.

Sensex drops over 100 points; bank, auto stocks fall

The rupee on Monday dropped by 55 paise to close at 71.80 to the US dollar, the lowest level since December 17, ahead of the Reserve Bank of India's policy review meet.

This is the second straight session of loss for the domestic unit, during which it lost a total 72 paise.

Forex traders said foreign fund outflows and a stronger dollar following blockbuster US employment and factory data impacted the rupee sentiment.

Moreover, investors were cautious ahead of the next meeting of RBI's Monetary Policy Committee scheduled during February 5-7.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (forex) market, the rupee opened lower at 71.57 and fell further to touch the day's low of 71.82.

The domestic unit pared some losses before ending at 71.80 per dollar, down by 55 paise against its previous close.

On Friday, the rupee had settled 17 paise lower at 71.25 against the US dollar.

"Brent crude rose for fifth straight day to gain almost 6 per cent in last one week. The resultant pressure on Indian rupee is visible as it is trading lower," Sanctum Wealth Management Chief Investment Officer Sunil Sharma said.

Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, was trading at $62.97 per barrel, higher by 0.16 per cent.

Forex traders said concerns related to fiscal slippage weighed on the sentiment.&nbsp;

"The fiscal deficit for the current financial year is likely to be around 3.4 per cent of GDP, marginally higher than the targeted 3.3 per cent," said V K Sharma, Head PCG &amp; Capital Markets Strategy, HDFC Securities.

The benchmark BSE Sensex Monday recovered from the day's low to end 113.31 points or 0.31 per cent, higher at 36,582.74. The NSE Nifty also edged higher by 18.60 points, or 0.17 per cent, to close at 10,912.25.

Meanwhile, foreign funds sold shares worth Rs 112.13 crore from the capital markets on a net basis Friday, while domestic institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 65.22 crore, provisional data showed.

The Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 71.6580 and for rupee/euro at 81.9997. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 93.7067 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 65.29.

The rupee on Monday dropped by 55 paise to close at 71.80 to the US dollar, the lowest level since December 17, ahead of the Reserve Bank of India's policy review meet.

The rupee on Monday dropped by 55 paise to close at 71.80 to the US dollar, the lowest level since December 17, ahead of the Reserve Bank of India's policy review meet. This is the second straight session of loss for the domestic unit, during which it lost a total 72 paise. Forex traders said foreign fund outflows and a stronger dollar following blockbuster US employment and factory data impacted the rupee sentiment. Moreover, investors were cautious ahead of the next meeting of RBI's Monetary Policy Committee scheduled during February 5-7. At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (forex) market, the rupee opened lower at 71.57 and fell further to touch the day's low of 71.82. The domestic unit pared some losses before ending at 71.80 per dollar, down by 55 paise against its previous close. On Friday, the rupee had settled 17 paise lower at 71.25 against the US dollar. "Brent crude rose for fifth straight day to gain almost 6 per cent in last one week. The resultant pressure on Indian rupee is visible as it is trading lower," Sanctum Wealth Management Chief Investment Officer Sunil Sharma said. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, was trading at $62.97 per barrel, higher by 0.16 per cent. Forex traders said concerns related to fiscal slippage weighed on the sentiment. "The fiscal deficit for the current financial year is likely to be around 3.4 per cent of GDP, marginally higher than the targeted 3.3 per cent," said V K Sharma, Head PCG & Capital Markets Strategy, HDFC Securities. The benchmark BSE Sensex Monday recovered from the day's low to end 113.31 points or 0.31 per cent, higher at 36,582.74. The NSE Nifty also edged higher by 18.60 points, or 0.17 per cent, to close at 10,912.25. Meanwhile, foreign funds sold shares worth Rs 112.13 crore from the capital markets on a net basis Friday, while domestic institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 65.22 crore, provisional data showed. The Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 71.6580 and for rupee/euro at 81.9997. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 93.7067 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 65.29.

Rupee slumps 55 paise to 71.80 US dollar

The domestic stock markets on Monday closed in green with Sensex ending 113.31 points higher at 36,582.74. Nifty, on the other hand, rose 18.60 points to end at 10,912.25.&nbsp;

The BSE benchmark Sensex Monday fell over 100 points tracking selloff in banking, auto and metal stocks amid mixed cues from global markets.

The 30-share index was trading 109.53 points, or 0.30 per cent, lower at 36,359.90.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 31.75 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 10,861.90.

On Friday, however, key indices finished with robust gains Friday after the government made a big populist push in its final budget before elections, even as some investors fretted about the fiscal impact of farm sops and tax rebates, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The BSE Sensex had climbed 212.74 points, or 0.59 per cent, to finish at 36,469.43, while the broader NSE Nifty rose 62.70 points, or 0.58 per cent, to 10,893.65.

The domestic stock markets on Monday closed in green with Sensex ending 113.31 points higher at 36,582.74. Nifty, on the other hand, rose 18.60 points to end at 10,912.

The domestic stock markets on Monday closed in green with Sensex ending 113.31 points higher at 36,582.74. Nifty, on the other hand, rose 18.60 points to end at 10,912.25. The BSE benchmark Sensex Monday fell over 100 points tracking selloff in banking, auto and metal stocks amid mixed cues from global markets. The 30-share index was trading 109.53 points, or 0.30 per cent, lower at 36,359.90. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 31.75 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 10,861.90. On Friday, however, key indices finished with robust gains Friday after the government made a big populist push in its final budget before elections, even as some investors fretted about the fiscal impact of farm sops and tax rebates, news agency PTI reported. The BSE Sensex had climbed 212.74 points, or 0.59 per cent, to finish at 36,469.43, while the broader NSE Nifty rose 62.70 points, or 0.58 per cent, to 10,893.65.

Markets end in green, Sensex closes over 100 points higher 

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 rupee Friday depreciated by 9 paise to 71.17 in early trade on the forex market amid strengthening of the American currency and caution ahead of interim budget.

Forex traders said strengthening of the US dollar against some currencies overseas, focus on interim budget and rising crude oil prices weighed on the local unit.

The current government is set to present its last Budget Friday, which is expected to have major announcements to support the farm sector and spur consumption.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange, the rupee opened at 71.08 then fell further to 71.17 against the US dollar, showing a decline of 9 paise over its previous closing.

On Thursday, the rupee had settled 4 paise higher at 71.08 against the US dollar.

However, positive opening in domestic equities and fresh foreign fund inflows capped the losses for the domestic unit.

Foreign funds bought shares worth Rs 3,006.41 crore from the capital markets on a net basis Thursday, while domestic institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 1,634.32 crore, provisional data showed.

The global benchmark, brent crude oil was trading at $61.49 per barrel, higher by 0.28 per cent.

Meanwhile, domestic equity market opened on a higher note. The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex was trading at 36,364.70, up 106.13 points in early trade. The wide-based Nifty was also trading up by 30.20 points at 10,861.15.&nbsp;

The rupee Friday depreciated by 9 paise to 71.17 in early trade on the forex market amid strengthening of the American currency and caution ahead of interim budget.

The rupee Friday depreciated by 9 paise to 71.17 in early trade on the forex market amid strengthening of the American currency and caution ahead of interim budget. Forex traders said strengthening of the US dollar against some currencies overseas, focus on interim budget and rising crude oil prices weighed on the local unit. The current government is set to present its last Budget Friday, which is expected to have major announcements to support the farm sector and spur consumption. At the Interbank Foreign Exchange, the rupee opened at 71.08 then fell further to 71.17 against the US dollar, showing a decline of 9 paise over its previous closing. On Thursday, the rupee had settled 4 paise higher at 71.08 against the US dollar. However, positive opening in domestic equities and fresh foreign fund inflows capped the losses for the domestic unit. Foreign funds bought shares worth Rs 3,006.41 crore from the capital markets on a net basis Thursday, while domestic institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 1,634.32 crore, provisional data showed. The global benchmark, brent crude oil was trading at $61.49 per barrel, higher by 0.28 per cent. Meanwhile, domestic equity market opened on a higher note. The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex was trading at 36,364.70, up 106.13 points in early trade. The wide-based Nifty was also trading up by 30.20 points at 10,861.15.

Rupee slips 9 paise to 71.17 against US dollar in early trade; focus on interim budget

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;&nbsp;

It is a 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;&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 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 a 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.

Benchmark Sensex ended over 212 points higher in see-saw trade Friday after the government presented a farm-friendly, consumption-oriented Budget ahead of the general elections.

After rallying over 500 points to hit the day's high of 36,778.14, the 30-share index gave up all gains and sank to 36,221.32 in late-afternoon trade. It finally ended 212.74 points, or 0.59 per cent, higher at 36,469.43.

Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty jumped 62.70 points, or 0.58 per cent, to close at 10,893.65.

Auto and consumption stocks buzzed as investors welcomed incentives for the agriculture sector and middle class in the budget, traders said.

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal proposed to double the threshold tax exemption limit to Rs 5 lakh and increased the standard deduction to Rs 50,000 from Rs 40,000.

The proposal will benefit 3 crore middle-class tax payers, Goyal said while unveiling the budget proposals for 2019-20.

As widely expected, the finance minister also announced the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi for small and marginal farmers, providing Rs 6,000 per year to be transferred directly to farmers' bank accounts.

Overall, market mood was positive even as the government overshot the fiscal deficit target for the current financial year on the back of populist measures ahead of the general elections.

Goyal said the fiscal deficit for the current financial year is expected to be 3.4 per cent of GDP. As per the Budget estimate, the fiscal deficit for 2018-19 was pegged at 3.3 per cent.

"All these are those factors (sops) are going to bring in a lot of liquidity to the market in terms of investment," said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research.

Some profit-booking and consolidation in the short term was expected as prices tend to absorb the Budget, but we expect the momentum to remain strong, he added.

The BSE auto, consumer durables, FMCG and realty indices climbed up to 2.62 per cent.

Top gainers in the Sensex pack included Hero MotoCorp, Maruti, HCL Tech, Asian Paints, Bajaj Auto, Bajaj Finance, HDFC, RIL, HUL, Bharti Airtel and PowerGrid, rising up to 7.48 per cent.

Vedanta was the biggest loser on the Sensex, cracking 17.82 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.

Banking stocks were the other top losers, with Yes Bank, SBI, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank falling up to 4.68 per cent.

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.

Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index rallied 1.30 per cent and Japan's Nikkei rose 0.07 per cent. Hong Kong's Hang Seng ended 0.04 per cent lower and Korea's Kospi slipped 0.06 per cent.

In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX gained 0.20 per cent, Paris CAC 40 was up 0.19 per cent and London's FTSE jumped 0.37 per cent in late morning deals.

The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 24 paise against US dollar to 71.32.

The benchmark Brent crude futures were trading slightly lower at US $60.53 per barrel.&nbsp;

Benchmark Sensex ended over 212 points higher in see-saw trade Friday after the government presented a farm-friendly, consumption-oriented Budget ahead of the general elections.

Benchmark Sensex ended over 212 points higher in see-saw trade Friday after the government presented a farm-friendly, consumption-oriented Budget ahead of the general elections. After rallying over 500 points to hit the day's high of 36,778.14, the 30-share index gave up all gains and sank to 36,221.32 in late-afternoon trade. It finally ended 212.74 points, or 0.59 per cent, higher at 36,469.43. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty jumped 62.70 points, or 0.58 per cent, to close at 10,893.65. Auto and consumption stocks buzzed as investors welcomed incentives for the agriculture sector and middle class in the budget, traders said. Finance Minister Piyush Goyal proposed to double the threshold tax exemption limit to Rs 5 lakh and increased the standard deduction to Rs 50,000 from Rs 40,000. The proposal will benefit 3 crore middle-class tax payers, Goyal said while unveiling the budget proposals for 2019-20. As widely expected, the finance minister also announced the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi for small and marginal farmers, providing Rs 6,000 per year to be transferred directly to farmers' bank accounts. Overall, market mood was positive even as the government overshot the fiscal deficit target for the current financial year on the back of populist measures ahead of the general elections. Goyal said the fiscal deficit for the current financial year is expected to be 3.4 per cent of GDP. As per the Budget estimate, the fiscal deficit for 2018-19 was pegged at 3.3 per cent. "All these are those factors (sops) are going to bring in a lot of liquidity to the market in terms of investment," said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research. Some profit-booking and consolidation in the short term was expected as prices tend to absorb the Budget, but we expect the momentum to remain strong, he added. The BSE auto, consumer durables, FMCG and realty indices climbed up to 2.62 per cent. Top gainers in the Sensex pack included Hero MotoCorp, Maruti, HCL Tech, Asian Paints, Bajaj Auto, Bajaj Finance, HDFC, RIL, HUL, Bharti Airtel and PowerGrid, rising up to 7.48 per cent. Vedanta was the biggest loser on the Sensex, cracking 17.82 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. Banking stocks were the other top losers, with Yes Bank, SBI, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank falling up to 4.68 per cent. 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. Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index rallied 1.30 per cent and Japan's Nikkei rose 0.07 per cent. Hong Kong's Hang Seng ended 0.04 per cent lower and Korea's Kospi slipped 0.06 per cent. In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX gained 0.20 per cent, Paris CAC 40 was up 0.19 per cent and London's FTSE jumped 0.37 per cent in late morning deals. The rupee, meanwhile, depreciated 24 paise against US dollar to 71.32. The benchmark Brent crude futures were trading slightly lower at US $60.53 per barrel.

Budget day: Sensex ends 212 points higher; auto, consumption stocks rally

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

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