Money on the markets

Sensex ends 2 pct up after choppy start

The BSE Sensex saw a choppy start today but buying by domestic funds lifted it into positive territory.

The 30-share sensitive index rose 2 percent to 9,424.24, its highest close since January 7, as domestic funds focussed on blue chips with earnings potential, such as Reliance Industries.

The Nifty ended 1.8 percent higher at 2,874.80 points.

Investor sentiment was also boosted from higher European shares that rode a rally in drug makers.

Index heavyweight Reliance Industries rose 4.5 percent to 1,325.20 rupees, its highest close in nearly four weeks. The energy giant is expected to start gas sales in the second half of February from its large field off the east coast.