The equity benchmark indices settled nearly flat on Friday after a volatile session, offering a brief pause following recent declines.

This marked the third straight session of decline for domestic equities as sustained foreign fund outflows and weak global cues weighed on investor sentiment. After a subdued opening, the Nifty recovered part of its losses during the day before ending marginally in the red.

The Sensex fell 94.73 points, or 0.11 percent to close at 83,216.28. During the day, it dropped 640.06 points, or 0.76 percent to 82,670.95. The Nifty settled lower by 17.40 points, or 0.07 percent at 25,492.30.

Market experts said the Nifty would remain a "sell on rise" as long as it trades below the 25,600 mark, while Bank Nifty’s immediate support lies at 57,300.

"Lately, Nifty ha

See Full Page