Benchmark indices close higher on strong gains in metal and energy stocks amid positive global cues

Equity markets extended their winning streak for the second consecutive session on Thursday, with the benchmark indices closing significantly higher, driven by strong gains in metal and energy stocks amid positive global cues.

The BSE Sensex surged 609.86 points or 0.83 per cent to close at 74,340.09, while the NSE Nifty50 jumped 207.40 points or 0.93 per cent to settle at 22,544.70. The market showed resilience despite early volatility, with the indices recovering sharply after a brief dip in early trade.

Top gainers

Asian Paints led the rally, surging 4.70 per cent to ₹2,267.10, buoyed by a strong demand outlook and robust institutional buying. NTPC followed, rising 3.41 per cent to ₹337.75 on firm power sector demand.

Reliance Industries gained 2.96 per cent to close at ₹1,210.55, as investors cheered its recent expansion plans. Tata Steel added 2.87 per cent to finish at ₹150.35, driven by rising metal prices. Bajaj Finserv rounded off the top five, climbing 2.39 per cent to ₹1,845.15.

Top losers

Tech Mahindra was the biggest laggard, falling 2.31 per cent to ₹1,503.60 amid weak global IT sector cues. Kotak Mahindra Bank declined 0.96 per cent to ₹1,921.60, facing selling pressure after recent gains.

Zomato slipped 0.62 per cent to ₹225.40, while Tata Motors dropped 0.19 per cent to ₹639.75. IndusInd Bank saw a marginal loss of 0.07 per cent, closing at ₹971.05.

The day’s gains were largely driven by strength in metal, energy, and infrastructure stocks, reflecting upbeat investor sentiment. The Nifty Metal index surged 2.48 per cent, while the Nifty Energy index gained 1.92 per cent.