New Delhi, March 19 -- The benchmark stock market indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, rose by nearly 1% on Wednesday, continuing their upward trend for the third consecutive day, supported by a slight decline in crude oil prices and a strong performance in global markets.

A surge in IT stocks also contributed to the positive sentiment in the domestic markets.

The 30-share BSE Sensex increased by 633.29 points, or 0.83%, closing at 76,704.13. Throughout the day, it had reached a peak of 929.38 points, or 1.22%, at 77,000.22.

Nifty 50 climbed 196.65 points, or 0.83%, to finish at 23,777.80.

The Gift Nifty Live Chart is showing a weak start for the Indian stock market today. By 7:34 AM, the Gift Nifty was trading around 23,221.5 level, a disco...