Markets continue to trade strong

Markets have continues to trade firm on buying in index heavyweights. An impressive set of advance tax numbers coupled with FIIs inflow have strenthened the markets towards a 32-month high.

The Sensex is trading at 19,876 up 281 points. The Nifty has touched a high of 5969 and is now trading  up 84 points.

Investors will be cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserve's monetary policy meeting on Tuesday which will decide whether the US economy needs reinforced monetary help.

Foreign Institutional Investors have invested over Rs 12,442 crore so far.

Reliance Communications has gained 4.5% at Rs 174. ITC and BPCL have surged 4% each to Rs 176 and Rs 799, respectively.

Suzlon, Hindustan Unilever, Hero Honda, DLF and HDFC are some of the other top gainers.

Meanwhile, NTPC has dropped 1% to Rs 204. Sterlite has slipped 1% at Rs 172.

Ranbaxy, Idea Cellular, Wipro and TCS have declined marginally in late-noon trades.