STC NEWS DESK
MUMBAI, APRIL 16 (STC): The Sensex gained 309.40 points or 0.40 per cent to end at 77,044.29, close to the day’s high of 77,110.23, and Nifty 50 rose 108.65 points or 0.47 per cent to 23,437.20.
The banking sector led the gainers, while the auto and pharma indices slipped to end in the red.
India VIX was down 1.61% to ₹15.87 A widening trade deficit and easing inflation shaped market sentiment, with analysts expecting range-bound movement ahead of the Good Friday holiday.
India’s trade deficit surged to $21.54 billion in March, as imports rose 11.4%, while exports grew just 0.7%. Meanwhile, retail inflation eased to a five-year low of 3.34%, driven by softer food prices. Analysts say the moderation in inflation, especially core inflation, could pave the way for an RBI rate cut. However, US policy shifts and geopolitical volatility remain key risks. (Inputs from agencies)