Mumbai, Oct. 30 -- The key equity benchmarks ended higher on Friday, supported by buying interest in heavyweight stocks, with the Nifty settled above the 23,050 mark. However, gains remained moderate as elevated crude oil prices and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East kept investors cautious. Brent crude trading above $115 per barrel heightened concerns over inflationary pressures and India's import bill, potentially limiting the scope for a sustained market recovery.

Going ahead, investors are likely to track crude oil price movements, geopolitical developments and corporate earnings for further directional cues.

IT and pharma shares advanced while consumer durables, media and auto shares declined.

As per provisional c...