Indian equity markets ended Friday’s session on a strong note, with benchmark indices extending gains despite weak global cues. Nifty 50 rose 261.55 points (1.09%) to close at 24,334.30. Meanwhile, BSE Sensex advanced around 750–900 points, supported by broad-based buying in banking and information technology stocks amid optimism around the Q1 earnings season. Investor sentiment improved on expectations of healthy corporate earnings, particularly from financial heavyweights, while a firmer rupee and positive domestic flows helped offset geopolitical concerns. On the sectoral front, Nifty Private Bank (+2.12%) and Nifty IT (+1.75%) led the rally, followed by Auto (+1.24%), Financial Services (+1.14%), Realty (+1.38%), and Oil & Gas (+0.99%). In contrast, Pharma (-1.40%), Healthcare (-1.28%), and Metal (-0.47%) underperformed. However, market breadth remained weak, with 1,314 stocks advancing, 2,005 stocks declining, and 100 remaining unchanged, indicating gains were concentrated in large-cap heavyweights rather than the broader market.
