Mumbai/IBNS, April 16 -- The Indian stock market rallied sharply on Thursday, buoyed by easing crude oil prices and optimism around a potential de-escalation in tensions involving the US and Iran, according to media reports.

Sensex, Nifty open strong

The BSE Sensex surged over 500 points, while the NSE Nifty 50 opened near the 24,390 mark, reflecting strong investor sentiment in early trade.

Oil prices dip below $95

Crude oil prices slipping below $95 per barrel added to the positive momentum, alongside multiple supportive global and domestic cues.

Metals, IT, financials lead rally

Sectorally, metals, financial services and IT stocks led the gains, with most indices trading in the green.

However, FMCG, realty and midcap-heavy segme...