PSX rally continues as KSE-100 index crosses 180,000 in intraday trade

Islamabad: The Pakistan Stock Exchange extended its record-setting rise on Tuesday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index crossing the 180,000 level during intraday trading as investor appetite remained strong.

By 1:14pm, the index was up 3,109.94 points, or 1.76%, at 180,149.76 points. During the session, it touched an intraday high of 180,499.96 points and a low of 177,741.46 points. Earlier in the day, the market opened firmly and by 9:34am the benchmark had advanced 1,267.86 points, or 0.72%, to 178,307.68 before building on those gains through the session.

Investors continued aggressive buying as confidence improved over Pakistan’s economic outlook and regional geopolitical tensions showed signs of easing. Market sentiment was also supported by Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aimed at regional peace, while expectations of lower energy costs internationally added to the positive mood.

International oil prices remained under pressure amid hopes that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz would help restore supply flows. That, in turn, eased concerns about inflation and strengthened the outlook for oil-importing economies such as Pakistan.

Buying was seen across a range of key sectors, including automobile assemblers, chemicals, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, oil marketing companies and refineries. Trading volumes stayed strong as well, with more than 408.23 million shares traded, while the total value of transactions reached Rs38.91 billion.

The latest advance followed Monday’s sharp rally and reflected continued investor interest amid signs of improving macroeconomic stability, supportive budget measures and expectations that softer oil prices could help reduce imported inflation.