The key equity benchmarks hovered near the flat line in early afternoon trade. The Nifty traded above the 22,400 level. Pharma stocks gained for second consecutive trading session.

At 12:30 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was down 5.50 points or 0.01% to 73,847.44. The Nifty 50 index added 2.25 points or 0.01% to 22,404.65.

In the broader market, the S&P BSE Mid-Cap index rose 0.19% and the S&P BSE Small-Cap index added 0.38%.

The market breadth was strong. On the BSE, 1,985 shares rose and 1,669 shares fell. A total of 158 shares were unchanged.

Politics:

The second phase of voting will be held on April 26 in 89 constituencies spread across 13 states and Union territories. The BJP is looking to consolidate its grip on power as it aims for a histor...

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  (01-Jan-16 08:45)

  Market may edge higher in early trade
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  Metal stocks may slide on weak Chinese data
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  (01-Jan-16 09:34)

  Market drops in early trade
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  (01-Jan-16 10:17)

  Strong market breadth