Mumbai, June 9 -- The benchmark equity indices traded with moderate gains in early afternoon trade supported by decline in crude oil prices following easing geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran. Investor sentiment was further aided by improved risk appetite across global markets. However, market participants will monitor inflation trajectory, movements in crude oil and gold prices and global cues for further direction. Nifty traded above 23,200 level.

Auto shares advanced after declining in the past trading session.

At 12:25 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex advanced 207.16 points or 0.28% to 73,731.42. The Nifty 50 index rose 82.75 points or 0.36% to 23,205.75.

In the broader market, the BSE 150 MidCap Index rose 1...