Indian stock markets gained momentum in late afternoon trading, driven by robust buying in Power and Utilities sectors despite weak trends from European counterparts. Optimism was fueled by expectations that November’s GST collection will surpass October’s figure of ₹1.87 lakh crore, making it the second-highest monthly collection ever, aided by festive sales. Additionally, the government is working on an integrated insolvency platform to expedite resolutions under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).

European markets traded lower as Finland’s consumer confidence fell sharply. In Asia, most markets declined, with China’s industrial profits showing a slower but persistent contraction.

Market Highlights:

• BSE Sensex: Gained 279 points to trade at 80,283.13, led by Utilities and Power.
• Nifty 50: Up 94.5 points at 24,289, driven by Adani Enterprises and NTPC.
• Top Gainers: Adani Ports (+7.1%), NTPC (+2.24%), Bajaj Finance (+1.21%).
• Top Losers: Titan (-0.72%), Asian Paints (-0.65%), Sun Pharma (-0.53%).

Sector Performance: Utilities rose 2.83%, while Realty and Healthcare lagged.

Policy Developments:
The government is focusing on launching the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme, aiming to generate 2 crore jobs in two years. The EPFO has been directed to prepare for the scheme rollout and improve dispute resolution mechanisms.

Globally, UK’s FTSE 100 and Germany’s DAX fell slightly, while China’s Hang Seng surged by 2.26%.