U.S. stocks rose, as monthly flows into equity exchange-traded funds reached a five-year high, after housing data and earnings from companies including McDonald's Corp. fueled speculation stimulus would continue.
Asian stocks rose, extending a two-month high, after a decline in U.S. home sales eased concern that the Federal Reserve will start stimulus reduction within two months.
Extending its winning run for fourth day, the Sensex inched up 9 points to close at two-month high of 20,159.12 helped by smart gains in HDFC, ICICI Bank and Infosys shares even as L&T tanked by over 7% after reporting a decline in profit. BHEL, Tata Steel, RIL and ONGC also saw losses but rate-sensitive auto and banking stocks helped Sensex end up. Market is expected to open on a positive note and remain strong during the day.