Mumbai, Sep 3 (IANS) A benchmark index for Indian equities closed almost flat Friday in volatile but range-bound trade. Broader markets, however, continued to see robust buys.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,238.03 points, closed at 18,208.78 points (provisional), 29.53 points or 0.16 percent down from its previous close at 18,238.31 points.

At the National Stock Exchange (NSE), the broader 50-share S&P CNX Nifty shut shop 0.17 percent lower at 5,476.75 points.

Broader markets indices showed buying interest, with the BSE midcap ending 0.95 percent up and the BSE smallcap index 0.84 percent higher.

Metal, and energy stocks saw selling, while realty and auto scrips were in favour.