Sensex gains 137 points on healthy results

The BSE benchmark Sensex bounced back 137 points today, on healthy quarterly results posted by blue-chip companies and a clutch of positive economic data, coupled with firm global cues.

The 30-share barometer of the Bombay Stock Exchange ended the session at 20,303.12, higher by 137.26 points, or 0.68 per cent, with HDFC, RIL, TCS and Hindalco contributing the most.

During the session, Sensex climbed 286 points to touch a high of 20,452, but profit booking at the higher levels erased some of the early gains. On Friday, the index lost 95 points.

The National Stock Exchange's wide-based 50-share Nifty Index too rose by 0.66 per cent to settle at 6,105.80.

Analysts said better-than-expected second quarter numbers by FMCG major HUL, bumpy trade data for September and positive news from the conference of G-20 finance ministers and central bank governors in South Korea boosted the investor confidence.

"Robust export data, good quarterly result show by India Inc and positive happening on global currency valuation front helped the market to start the week

Auto, metal and pharma stocks led the rally, while the IT FMCG and technology stocks were under pressure.

Hindustan Unilever, which posted a 32 per cent jump in Q2 profit, rose 1.36 per cent. However, ITC saw selling pressure and finished 1.1 per cent down, dragging the BSE FMCG Index in the red.

"With quarterly results pouring in and F&O expiry week we expect more volatility in the coming days," IIFL Research head Amar Ambani said.

Reliance Industries, that holds the maximum weight in the Sensex, rose 0.82 per cent to close at Rs 1,090.35.

Metal stocks also attracted smart buying and Hindalco that jumped 4.3 per cent was the biggest gainer in the Sensex pack.

Sterlite rose 2.4 per cent, Jindal Steel 1.5 per cent and Tata Steel 0.70 per cent.