Banking and Energy Stocks Drive Market Activity
The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continued its positive momentum on Friday as investors maintained buying interest following improving market sentiment linked to international developments and easing oil prices.
During the Friday prayers break, the benchmark KSE-100 Index stood at 168,665.65 points, showing an increase of 151.21 points or 0.09%.
Market activity remained positive across several major sectors. Investors actively purchased shares in commercial banks, fertiliser companies, oil and gas exploration firms, and power generation businesses.
Meanwhile, several index-heavy stocks traded in positive territory and contributed to the market’s upward movement. Shares of HUBCO, MARI, POL, Bank of Khyber, MCB, and JSBL recorded gains during the session.
Analysts attributed the improved sentiment largely to optimism surrounding ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran. Investors also reacted positively to declining international oil prices, which eased concerns over external economic pressures.
Consequently, market participants continued building positions in key sectors amid expectations of a more stable economic environment.
Previous Session Strengthened Positive Market Sentiment
The latest gains followed a strong bullish session recorded a day earlier when the stock market posted significant advances.
On Thursday, the Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed broad-based buying as declining global oil prices strengthened investor confidence and encouraged fresh participation.
As a result, the KSE-100 Index surged by 3,683.02 points, or 2.23%, to close at 168,514.45 points.
The sharp increase reflected renewed investor optimism after several sessions affected by uncertainty related to regional tensions and international developments.
Furthermore, analysts noted that lower oil prices generally reduce pressure on Pakistan’s import bill and improve expectations regarding inflation and economic stability.
Investors now continue monitoring international political developments, commodity prices, and broader economic indicators that may influence market direction in the coming sessions.
