Indian benchmark indices closed higher for the third trading session, primarily driven by foreign inflows. Despite weak fourth-quarter performance, IT stocks rebounded due to bargain opportunities and pent-up demand. Metal, pharma, and auto sectors drove buying interest, while IT stocks faced selling pressure due to weak signals from the US market. Investors are watchful ahead of events such as the release of FOMC minutes, US PMI, and progress in debt-ceiling talks. Experts anticipate the Nifty to continue consolidating within the range of 18,000 – 18,400.
