>TOP PICKS (SHAREKHAN)

After a breather in June 2009 the markets resumed their upward journey in July 2009 with the Sensex and the Nifty gaining 10.5% and 10.1% respectively. Better than expected first quarter results and positive global cues improved the overall sentiments at the domestic bourses last month. Our portfolio of top picks outperformed the benchmark indices by giving a return of 15.4% led by smart outperformance by consumer goods stocks, Godrej Consumer Products, ITC and Balrampur Chini Mills (the latter two were added in the last month). Apart from the consumer stocks, Shiv-Vani Oil and Gas Exploration Services (Shiv-Vani) was the top performer in the top picks basket with a stupendous return of 32.6% for the month.

• Apollo Tyres
• Bajaj Holdings
• Balrampur Chini
• Bharti Airtel
• Bharat Heavy Electricals
• Emco
• Godrej Consumer
• ITC
• Lupin
• Reliance Industries

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