PTBP Web Desk
The PSX market volatility remained a key highlight on Monday as trading at the Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed sharp fluctuations. The benchmark KSE-100 Index moved in both directions during the session, reflecting investor uncertainty driven by global geopolitical tensions.
At the start of trading, the market opened on a negative note. The index quickly dropped to an intra-day low of 147,771.35 points. However, sentiment shifted in the second half of the session as buying interest picked up. This recovery pushed the index to an intra-day high of 151,875.01 points. By the close, the KSE-100 Index settled at 151,207.81, gaining 809.10 points or 0.54%.
According to market analysts, early pressure was mainly due to rising geopolitical concerns. However, optimism surrounding a possible ceasefire and the expected reopening of the Strait of Hormuz helped restore investor confidence. As a result, aggressive value buying and short covering drove a late-session rally.
On the corporate front, stocks such as UBL, BAFL, ATRL, POL, and NESTLE weighed on the index, collectively dragging it down by 716 points. In contrast, ENGROH, PPL, LUCK, HUBC, OGDC, and MCB supported the market, contributing a combined 666 points.
Meanwhile, global developments also played a significant role. Reports suggest that the United States and Iran are considering a Pakistan-backed framework aimed at ending their ongoing conflict. The plan proposes an immediate ceasefire followed by negotiations over the next 15 to 20 days. This development improved market sentiment and reduced uncertainty.
Last week, the PSX had remained under pressure due to escalating tensions and rising global oil prices. The index declined by 1,309 points on a weekly basis. However, Monday’s recovery indicates renewed investor confidence.
In the global markets, oil prices increased, with Brent crude rising to $110.58 per barrel. This came after OPEC+ agreed to raise output levels. At the same time, Asian markets showed mixed trends, reflecting ongoing uncertainty.
On the currency side, the Pakistani rupee showed slight improvement against the US dollar, closing at 279.07 in the inter-bank market.
Trading activity remained stable, with 483 companies participating. Of these, 261 stocks gained, 153 declined, and 69 remained unchanged. Overall, the session highlighted how PSX market volatility continues to be influenced by both domestic factors and global geopolitical developments.
