U.S. stocks ended higher, shaking off early losses after a disappointing existing home sales report, as some investors took the data as a factor that could delay the start of the Fed Reserve's reduced bond purchases.
Asian stocks rose for a 2nd day after a slump in U.S. home sales eased speculation the Fed Reserve will reduce economic stimulus next month.
Sensex rallied 206 points to close above 18,500 levels, while Nifty extended short-covering led pull-back rally for 2nd straight day on the back of gains in capital goods, banks and oil & gas sectors. The Indian rupee pared intraday losses on the back of gains in the equities. Market is expected to open on a positive note and to remain range bound during the day.