Buy or sell stocks, Aug. 1 -- The Indian stock market extended its winning streak for a third straight session on Friday, July 31, as benchmark indices closed higher despite mixed global signals. Gains were supported by encouraging June-quarter earnings, although persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, elevated US bond yields and firm crude oil prices continued to cap the upside.

The Sensex climbed 166 points, or 0.21%, to settle at 78,094.64, while the Nifty 50 advanced 66 points, or 0.27%, to end at 24,383.60.

The benchmarks have now gained more than 2% in July, marking their second consecutive month of advances, as stronger-than-expected Q1 earnings continued to underpin investor sentiment.

Despite the positive momentum...