CARACAS -- Venezuela's stock market rose sharply the week ending November 30, with the Caracas Stock Index up 6.3% at 407,593, with investors betting that once again there is an increased probability for political change after Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez returned to Cuba for more cancer treatment.

Volume was high all week. Banco de Venezuela was the biggest gainer, increasing by 25% at Bs. 10. Mercantil Servicios Financieros A rose 12.2% at Bs. 129, while the class B shares rose 8.7% at Bs. 125. Banco Provincial rose 3.6% at Bs. 130, while Manpa rose 3.85% at 5.4%.

The Venezuela Stock Market is now up 248.26% for the year to date.