Mumbai: Led by public sector undertakings (PSU) stocks, select key shares moved upwards aiding the SENSEX to open on a firm note on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on December 23 due to selective buying support from operators as also Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs).

The Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL) and power sector shares surged up on buying prompted by expectations of reforms in the near future.

The BSE Sensitive Index opened firm at 3,346.56 as against the December 20 close of 3,351.01 and later rose to a high of 3,351.01 before being quoted at 3,322.67 at 10.30 am (IST).

However, software shares met with selling pressure and were quoted moderately lower during the initial period of the session.

FIIs, which were net buyers to the tune of Rs 191 crore in the first four sessions last week, seemed to be the principal driving force in the market.

PTI