Mumbai, July 4 -- Domestic benchmarks ended higher on Friday, breaking a two-day losing streak. The Nifty closed comfortably above the 25,450 level, powered by gains in energy and pharma stocks. However, metal and auto counters remained under pressure.

The session began on a cautious note, with indices trading in the red through the first half. But a strong rebound in heavyweight names helped the market recoup losses and finish on a positive note.

Investor focus now shifts to the anticipated US-India trade deal, with the July 9 tariff deadline looming. Hopes of a favorable outcome are keeping sentiment buoyant, potentially setting the stage for the next leg of the rally.

The S&P BSE Sensex advanced 193.42 points or 0.23% to 83,432.89. ...