Indian Equities Extend Gains on Friday as Broad-Based Buying Lifts Market
Indian benchmark indices ended higher on Friday as broad-based buying lifted markets, supported by gains in consumer goods and oil & gas stocks.The BSE Sensex rose 504.86 points, or 0.7%, to close at 78,493.54, while the NSE Nifty 50 gained 156.80 points, or also 0.7%, to settle at 24,353.55.Sentiment improved on expectations of easing tensions in the Middle East. Reports of a possible progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations and a potential extension of the ceasefire supported risk appetite.A sharp decline in crude oil prices further supported the market.In corporate developments, Bajaj Consumer Care (NSE:BAJAJCON, BOM:533229) reported a rise in consolidated profit to 636.0 million rupees in the fiscal fourth quarter from 309.8 million rupees a year earlier.Aurobindo Pharma (NSE:AUROPHARMA, BOM:524804) received U.S. FDA approval to manufacture and market Glycerol Phenylbutyrate Oral Liquid. The product is equivalent to the reference drug Ravicti and will be launched immediately, the company said in a Friday filing.