The Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex today witnessed a five-week high of 18,736.97 before ending flat due to profit booking amid firm global trends. Tracking rally in Asian stocks, the 30-share barometer opened firm and touched a five-week high of 18,736.97 points. Later, profit booking at existing higher levels, however, changed the index down to 18,486.45 points at close, a slope of mere 3.31 points. The Sensex had rallied by 857.35 points, or 4.86 per cent in the last four straight sessions.

Brokers attributed early rise to hopes of financial sector reforms as the government yesterday cleared the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2011.The National Stock Exchange 50-issue Nifty also finished nearly steady but survived to close in positive terrain at 5,538.75 points from yesterday’s close of 5,536.20. Brokers attributed early rise to hopes of financial sector reforms as the government yesterday cleared the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2011.

Despite strong global cues, operators as well as retail investors preferred to book profits on worries over spiraling global crude oil prices which were trading above USD 102 a barrel in London. The market will make serious attempts to be on the bullish side.Capital goods stocks were at the receiving end while some of the banking and auto stocks attracted good customer support.