DHAKA: The BSE Sensex soared over 1,400 points to a new record high as the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance headed for a win in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. The Sensex crossed the psychological 25,000 for the first time.
The 50-share Nifty surged over 400 points to an all-time high of 7,553.90. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee traded at a 10-month high of 58.76 per dollar.
According to latest trends, Narendra Modi-led NDA is leading in 297 seats, wining 159 more seats as compared to 2009 elections. That will be enough to form a majority government. The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance was leading in 77 seats, down 152 seats from last elections.
"It's a good sign that BJP and its allies are headed for majority... There is a sense that the Narendra Modi government will be able to deliver what has been promised," said Madan Sabnavis of Care Ratings.
Indian stock markets have been on a roll on hopes that a stable government post elections in May would pull out all stops to bring the country's sluggish economy on track. Analysts expect a revival in investment cycle and fast-tracking of reforms under the new regime.
The rally in markets has come on the back of strong buying by overseas investors. Foreigners betting on a BJP victory have poured more than $16 billion into Indian stocks and bonds in the past six months and now hold over 22 per cent of Mumbai-listed equities - a stake estimated by Morgan Stanley at almost $280 billion.
Banking stocks led the bull charge on the Dalal Street, up around 10 per cent. Energy, auto, consumer durable and capital goods stocks traded with over 5 per cent gains.
On the Nifty, 49 of the 50 stocks traded higher. Private lender ICICI Bank surged nearly 12 per cent and was the top Nifty gainer followed by two-wheeler major Hero MotoCorp. State-run Punjab National Bank was up 11 per cent.
Gujarat-based companies saw strong buying as BJP headed for victory in elections. Adani Enterprises was up 9 per cent, Adani Ports traded 3.5 per cent higher, while Adani Ports traded with 5.3 per cent gains, reports the NDTV.
BDST: 1205 HRS, MAY 16, 2014
