Summary:**Sensex jumps 238 points, Nifty soars past 23,950 in lively market session****Introduction** India
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**Sensex jumps 238 points, Nifty soars past 23,950 in lively market session**
**Introduction**
Indian equity markets ended Thursday’s trading with a noticeable uplift, as the benchmark Sensex gained 238 points to close at 78,642 and the Nifty 50 breached the 23,950 mark, settling at 23,967. The gains, translating to 0.31 % for the Sensex and 0.34 % for the Nifty, were driven by broad‑based buying that saw advancing stocks outnumber decliners by more than two‑to‑one. Investors appeared reassured by a mix of domestic macro‑data and steady global cues, setting the stage for a cautiously optimistic session.
**Key Developments**
The rally was led by heavyweight constituents in the financial and IT sectors. HDFC Bank added 1.2 %, while Infosys rose 0.9 % after reporting better‑than‑expected quarterly margins. Energy stocks also contributed, with Reliance Industries gaining 0.7 % on the back of stable crude prices and a favorable refining margin outlook. On the broader market, the BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices each climbed roughly 0.4 %, indicating that the optimism was not confined to large‑caps alone. Trading volumes remained robust, with over 3.2 billion shares changing hands on the NSE, reflecting active participation from both retail and institutional players.
**Industry Analysis**
Analysts attribute the day’s strength to a confluence of factors. First, the Reserve Bank of India’s recent policy minutes signaled a pause in rate hikes, easing concerns about tighter liquidity. Second, domestic manufacturing PMI data released earlier in the week showed expansion for the third consecutive month, bolstering confidence in the earnings outlook for industrials. Third, global markets exhibited a risk‑on tone after the U.S. Federal Reserve hinted at a potential slowdown in its tightening cycle, which lifted sentiment toward emerging‑market equities. Sector‑wise, banks benefited from expectations of improved loan growth, while IT firms gained from a weaker rupee that enhances export competitiveness. However, some caution remains; analysts note that valu