Global stock markets reached record highs on Thursday, driven by gains in various sectors. In India, the Sensex and Nifty 50 indices both hit new peaks, with significant contributions from IT and banking stocks, supported by positive global trends and investor optimism. The Nifty Bank also touched new highs but ended flat due to profit booking. Meanwhile, Japan's Topix index surpassed its 34-year-old record, boosted by automakers and banks. In the U.S., the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also closed at record highs, fueled by weaker economic data that bolstered expectations for a Federal Reserve rate cut. Investors globally are optimistic, anticipating favorable economic policies and improved corporate outlooks in the latter half of 2024.