Mumbai, Sep 4: Indian equity markets ended higher on Friday, breaking a four-session losing streak as easing concerns over an immediate US Federal Reserve rate hike provided some relief to investors.
The Sensex climbed 362.57 points, or 0.48 per cent, to close at 76,515.43, while the Nifty 50 gained 24.25 points, or 0.10 per cent, to settle at 23,897.70. The modest recovery reflected improved global sentiment and fresh buying in select large-cap stocks.
Investor sentiment received a boost after comments from Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller reduced expectations of an immediate rate increase in the US. Lower Treasury yields following the remarks also offered support to global equities ahead of the US jobs data.
The broader market remained mixed, with small-cap stocks showing resilience. However, elevated crude oil prices and continued geopolitical uncertainty remained key concerns for investors. Brent crude has risen sharply amid tensions involving the US and Iran, keeping inflation and energy costs in focus.
Sector-wise, insurance and selected metal and financial stocks supported the market, while several other sectors remained under pressure. Capital-market stocks also attracted attention following regulatory developments related to derivatives pricing.
Despite Friday’s recovery, the domestic benchmarks ended the week lower. The Nifty declined around 1.2 per cent and the Sensex about 1 per cent over the week, marking their fourth consecutive weekly fall.
Going ahead, investors are likely to track US employment data, Federal Reserve signals, crude oil prices and global geopolitical developments closely. The latest rebound, however, offered some breathing room to Indian markets after a volatile week and showed that investors remain willing to buy selectively when global rate concerns ease.