Sensex gains for third day, up 131 pts

Positive global cues pushed up the BSE Sensex by 131 points ahead of heavyweight RIL's Q4 results, although lower-than-expected TCS numbers and upward turnaround in food inflation erased initial gains.

The Bombay Stock Exchange 30-share barometer opened firm and remained in the positive terrain throughout the day before settling at 19,602.23, up 131.25 points or 0.67 per cent.

Sensex has gained 511.06 points or 2.68 per cent in three straight sessions, ahead of long weekend starting tomorrow in view of "Good Friday" holiday.

The NSE 50-share Nifty also improved further by 33.05 points or 0.56 per cent to 5,884.70.

Metal stocks were at the forefront after overnight smart gains due to rise in prices on the London Metal Exchange (LMEX) yesterday.

Refinery counters too were in keen demand ahead of the Q4 results by top heavyweight RIL to be announced later today.

Bullish world markets helped the rally on local bourses.

Key Asian indices from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan closed higher between 0.67 per cent and 1.64 per cent following strong rally on Wall Street yesterday.

"Markets started off in the green amid gains in the equity markets across the globe. However, key indices saw a sharp decline after the weekly inflation data dampened the sentiments," said Amar Ambani, Head of Research (India Private Clients) at IIFL