Stock Market today, Jan. 31 -- The Benchmark Nifty 50 index and the S&P BSE index ended Thursday with gains of 0.37% and 0.30%, respectively, at 23,249.50 and 76,759.81. The Bank Nifty, at 49,311.95, rose 0.30%. Realty, energy, and pharma were other key gainers, while IT and auto lagged. Broader indices ended nearly flat.

Nifty is encountering resistance around its 20-day EMA at 23,300, and a decisive close above this level is crucial. Otherwise, the index may face renewed pressure and again inch toward the 23,000-22,700 zone, said Ajit Mishra - SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd

Bank Nifty index has crossed and sustained above 49,200, making it an immediate support level, while the previous breakdown point of 49,650 which will act as ...