Pre-market: Markets likely to open firm

Positive global cues to aid sentiment

Markets are likely to start off in the green on account of positive global cues.At 755 am Indian Standard Time, the SGX Nifty was up 23 points at 5.955.

Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha today cleared the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2011, after Finance Minister P Chidambaram agreed to drop the contentious proposals on allowing banks to indulge in futures trading.

Techinacclay, the Nifty is likely to seek support around 5,865-5,845, and face resistance around 5,930-5,950.

On the global front, US stocks rose extending a rally that lifted the S&P 500 to its highest in nearly two months, as optimism grew that a deal would be made to avert the "fiscal cliff."

Asian markets too are trading positive.

STOCKS TO WATCH

Shriram City Union Finance has got fair trade regulator CCI's approval for a proposed merger of its two group companies through a multi-stage transaction.

NSE has decided to remove Suzlon Energy and Gujarat Fluorochemicals from the futures & options segment.

Reliance Industries has agreed to audit by CAG of its spending in KG-D6 gas block.

Shareholders of United Spirits (USL) have approved the preferential allotment of shares to liquor giant Diageo.