Provisional: Markets end higher, shrug off US shutdown

Sensex ends up 148 points at 19,528 and Nifty gains 45 points to settle at 5,780.

Markets shrugged off the US federal government shutdown and firmed up in late trades after first quarter current account deficit came in line with expectation and moderate contraction in PMI September manufacturing. Encouraging sales reported by auto companies also boosted sentiment.

The 30-share Sensex was up 148 points at 19,528 and the 50-share Nifty was up 45 points at 5,780.