Indian equity benchmarks ended higher for the second consecutive session on December 12, supported by gains in metal stocks and positive global cues after the US Federal Reserve’s rate cut. The Sensex rose 449 points to close at 85,267, while the Nifty 50 held firmly above the 26,000 mark, signalling improving sentiment despite a marginal weekly decline. According to Sumeet Bagadia of Choice Broking, sustaining above this psychological level could open the path toward 26,300 in the near term.