The benchmark equity indices closed the final trading session of the week on a positive note, reflecting investor optimism. Both the Sensex and Nifty 50 registered gains, supported by strong performances from key stocks.

Equity benchmarks rise in afternoon trade, Sensex at 78,788.13, Nifty at 23,846.35, auto and banking stocks lead gains.

Market experts expect the indices to consolidate within a narrow range for the rest of the year, as the lack of major positive or negative triggers limits market movement