New Delhi, 20 February (H.S.): Indian equity benchmarks exhibited persistent volatility on Friday, the concluding trading session of the week, opening in negative territory before staging a robust recovery into green.

Benchmark Indices Surge

The Bombay Stock Exchange's 30-share Sensex climbed 121.68 points, or 0.15 percent, to trade at 82,619.82 during early hours.

Similarly, the National Stock Exchange's Nifty 50 advanced 45.85 points, or 0.18 percent, reaching 25,500.20.

Sectoral Divergences Emerge

IT stocks faced selling pressure in today's dealings, exerting downward drag on the indices. Conversely, public sector banking shares attracted robust buying interest, bolstering overall market sentiment.

Rupee Weakens Against Dollar

In forex markets, the Indian Rupee depreciated 27 paise to open at 90.95 against the US Dollar, influenced by a firm greenback and elevated crude prices amid geopolitical strains.

Thursday's Sharp Reversal

Notably, on Thursday, the Sensex halted a three-session rally, plummeting 1,236.11 points or 1.48 percent to close at 82,498.14. The Nifty too shed 365 points or 1.41 percent, settling at 25,454.35.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar