TORONTO (Reuters) - The main index of the Toronto Stock Exchange capped a losing month with a broad-based surge of more than 200 points as investors found solace in a pair of speeches by top US officials regarding the recent turmoil in financial markets.

The S&P/TSX composite index rose 215.85, or 1.6 percent, to close at 13,660.48.

"I think it gives some consolation for a very tough month," John Kinsey, portfolio manager at Caldwell Securities Ltd, said of yesterday's rally. "July had been good and August had been very bad."

The index was up one percent for the week, but down 1.5 percent on the month.

All of the benchmark's 10 main subgroups gained ground, including the key energy and materials sectors, which added 1.62 percent and 2.35 percent respectively. Financials rose 0.77 percent.

The S&P/TSX 60 index of large-cap stocks added 12.29 to close at 793.37.

The gains came as US President George W. Bush and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke delivered speeches regarding the US subprime mortgage turmoil and the resulting crisis gripping credit markets. The crunch has hit equities markets around the world, including Toronto.

Bush unveiled plans to help some subprime borrowers to avoid foreclosure. Bernanke said the central bank was ready to act to curb the impact of the turbulence on the economy — but would not bail out investors who made bad choices.

"I think it boosted confidence," Kate Warne, Canadian market strategist at Edward Jones in St. Louis, Missouri, said of the speeches.

However, she added: "I don't think it'll be sufficient to avoid a lot of volatility in September."

Yesterday's top net gainers in Toronto included Niko Resources, which jumped C$3, or 3.33 percent, to close at C$93.

BlackBerry maker Research In Motion wasn't far behind, gaining C$2.50, or 2.85 percent, to finish at C$90.21, one day after rumours resurfaced that Microsoft Corp may bid for the company.