The benchmark equity indices extended their gains on Friday, supported by strong buying in IT, realty, pharma and healthcare stocks, even as the broader market delivered a mixed performance. The Nifty advanced 95.15 points, or 0.39 per cent, to trade at 24,270.85, while the Sensex climbed 262.79 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 77,763.91.
Commenting on Nifty technical outlook, experts said that the 24,400 level remains the immediate resistance. "A sustained breakout above this zone could reinforce bullish momentum and pave the way for an advance towards the 24,500–24,600 region," an analyst said.
"On the downside, the 24,200 level is expected to provide immediate support, followed by the 24,000 psychological mark, which remains a crucial support zone," the market expert noted. Among the top performers on the Nifty were HCLTech, Max Healthcare Institute and Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, with healthcare and technology stocks leading the market higher.
The broader market, however, showed a divergent trend. The Nifty MidCap index slipped 0.19 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap index edged up 0.04 per cent. On the sectoral front, the Nifty Realty index emerged as the best-performing gauge during the session.
The Nifty IT, Pharma and Healthcare indices also traded firmly in positive territory. In contrast, the Nifty PSU Bank index was the biggest sectoral loser, weighing on overall market sentiment despite the strength in other segments.
"Domestic markets closed the session higher, despite intermittent volatility and profit-booking, aided by supportive global cues and growing expectations of a more accommodative global rate environment following softer US labour market data," the analyst mentioned.
"Going forward, focus shifts to Q1 FY27 earnings season and management commentary, especially amid a widening monsoon deficit," according to market expert.