Mumbai, Aug. 6 -- The benchmark indices ended higher in a volatile session on Thursday, extending their gains for a second consecutive session. Sentiment was supported by hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East and a better-than-expected June-quarter earnings season. The rally was led by strong buying in PSU bank and oil & gas stocks, although weakness in metal, auto and IT shares capped the upside. Broader market underperformed the benchmark indices. The Nifty closed above the 24,600 mark, supported by gains in Reliance Industries and State Bank of India. Technically, the 24,500-24,450 zone is expected to provide immediate support for the Nifty.

The S&P BSE Sensex, jumped 373.76 points or 0.48% to 78,954.76. The Nifty 50 i...