New Delhi, Oct. 17 -- The Indian stock market extended its gains to the third consecutive session on Friday, October 17, supported by a mix of positive factors that pushed key indices to fresh one-year highs, bringing early Diwali cheer to Dalal Street.

The Nifty 50 climbed 0.50% to cross the 25,700 mark and settled at 25,709, the highest level since October 2024. The index has closed most sessions in October on a positive note, taking its month-to-date gains to 4.46%, marking its best monthly performance since March 2025.

A strong start to the banking earnings season, led by Axis Bank, which beat margin estimates and reported improved asset quality, along with a robust Nestle India performance in the September quarter, sparked a rally ...