Sensex rises by 153 pts

The 30-share index of the Bombay Stock Exchange, which has gained nearly 1,277 points in the previous six sessions, rose further by 152.80 points, or 0.79 per cent, to 19,273.60.

All the sectoral indices were trading in the positive zone, registering gains of up to 1.11 per cent.

Similarly, the broad-based National Stock Exchange Nifty index also moved up by 43.60 points, or 0.76 per cent, to 5,779.95.

Brokers said the trading sentiment remained buoyant on the back of a firming trend on other Asian bourses following overnight gains in the US market and easing of oil prices, reducing fears of inflationary pressure and a hike in interest rates.

Covering-up of pending short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow`s monthly expiry in the derivatives segment on the NSE also supported the rise in stock prices, they said.