FX.co ★ Sensex Closes on Higher Note

India’s BSE Sensex closed about 0.5% higher at 78,954.8 on Thursday, its strongest finish since April 21 and the second consecutive session of gains. Sentiment was supported by optimism over a possible resolution to the Middle East conflict, a stronger-than-expected corporate earnings season, and the RBI’s unchanged policy stance coupled with a positive growth outlook.

These factors underpinned selective buying in heavyweight and banking shares, even as investors booked profits in auto, metals, IT, and cement counters. Reliance Industries led the advance, jumping 3.4% after multiple block deals were executed at a premium to the previous close. State Bank of India climbed 3% ahead of its Q1 results due on Friday. Bharat Electronics (up 2.6%), ICICI Bank (2.3%), Eternal (2%), and Titan (1.5%) were also among the notable gainers.

On the downside, state-run Power Grid was the session’s worst performer, sliding about 4% after it reported a 0.9% year-on-year decline in consolidated net profit for Q1 FY27, despite higher total income and ongoing expansion of its transmission network.