The Sensex ended eight points lower at 5,195. The Nifty closed at 1,631 - down 8 points.

Cement stocks were in limelight throughout the day. Gujarat Ambuja was the top performer, and the scrip ended nearly 5% higher at Rs 297. Grasim and ACC also posted smart gains.

HPCL witnessed heavy buying towards the end, and the scrip ended 3% higher at Rs 332. MTNL and Tisco were up 2% each.

Hindalco was the major loser - down 2.5% at Rs 1,035. ONGC, HDFC Bank and Bhel were also down 2% each.