Mumbai, May 26 -- The key equity benchmarks closed sharply higher today, notching up gains for the second straight session. The rally was fueled by the Reserve Bank of India's record dividend payout, which is likely to ease fiscal stress. Investor sentiment was further lifted by news of India becoming the world's fourth-largest economy. However, the upside was somewhat capped amid concerns over potential geopolitical tensions and trade-related risks from the US. The Nifty ended just above the 25,000 mark, with auto, IT, and FMCG stocks leading the charge.

The S&P BSE Sensex added 455.37 points or 0.56% to 82,176.45. The Nifty 50 index advanced 148 points or 0.60% to 25,001.15. In two trading sessions, the Sensex and Nifty have jumped 1.5...