Sensex at fresh record high of 22,769; Nifty holds 6,800 level

The benchmark BSE Sensex climbed to a new record high of 22,769.20 in early trade today on sustained buying by funds and retail investors amid a firming trend in Asian markets.

The 30-share index, which had gained 358.89 points in the previous session, rose further by 66.86 points, or 0.29%, to 22,769.20 points. The wide-based Nifty of the National Stock Exchange moved up by 14.40 points, or 0.21%, to 6,810.60. Brokers said continued buying by funds as well as retail investors, tracking a firming trend on the other Asian bourses, mainly buoyed the trading sentiment.

They said the rally was led by stocks of realty, auto, power, oil and gas, capital goods and health care sectors. Among Asian markets, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index rose by 0.47%, while Japan's Nikkei moved up by 0.69% in early trade today.