Indices ends higher, Nifty above 23,550, private banks climb

The domestic stocks clawed their way back on Thursday, ending slightly higher after a volatile session. Despite weekly options expiry shaking things up, the Nifty 50 managed to stay above 23,550. The action was sector-specific, with investors favoring realty, metals and private banks while taking profits in pharmaceuticals, autos and state-owned lenders. This highlights the ongoing trend of rotation, with money moving into undervalued large caps and out of previously hot counters. Even the broader market, which has been on a tear, seems to be taking a breather.