Summary The Pakistan Stock Exchange extended its bullish momentum on Thursday as the KSE-100 Index surged past 168,000 points amid optimism over possible US-Iran peace efforts and strong gains in Asian marke
KARACHI (Dunya News) - The Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed a powerful rally on Thursday as investors responded positively to improving global sentiment and hopes of easing tensions between the United States and Iran.
The benchmark KSE-100 Index surged by more than 3,600 points during the trading session, reclaiming the crucial 168,000-point level after strong buying activity across major sectors.
At the close of business, the KSE-100 Index settled at 168,514 points, recording a gain of 3,683 points compared to the previous close of 164,831 points.
Earlier during the session, the market had climbed 2,969 points to reach 167,801 points, reflecting a positive change of 1.8 per cent. Analysts said investor confidence strengthened after reports suggested progress towards a possible peace understanding between the US and Iran.
Global financial markets also remained upbeat as some vessels resumed movement through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over oil supply disruptions and regional instability.
Asian stock markets recorded sharp gains on Thursday, supported by easing geopolitical fears and strong earnings in the technology sector. MSCI’s broadest Asia-Pacific index outside Japan rose 2.6 per cent, ending a four-day losing streak.
South Korea’s KOSPI index jumped more than seven per cent, while Taiwan’s stock market gained 3.5 per cent and Chinese blue-chip shares advanced 1.1 per cent. Market sentiment further improved after better-than-expected financial results from Nvidia and the suspension of a workers’ strike at Samsung Electronics.
At the Pakistan Stock Exchange, trading activity remained strong throughout the day. More than 270 million shares worth over Rs26.5 billion were traded during Thursday’s session.
According to PSX data, the ready market previously recorded a trading volume of 386.394 million shares valued at Rs20.125 billion, compared to 391.935 million shares worth Rs22.975 billion in the prior session.
Market capitalisation increased significantly to Rs18.243 trillion from Rs18.081 trillion a day earlier, reflecting renewed investor participation and improved confidence in equities.
Out of 483 active companies in the ready market, 302 posted gains, 141 recorded losses, while 40 remained unchanged.
Analysts believe the latest rally reflects optimism regarding Pakistan’s economic outlook, improving investor sentiment, and positive developments in global markets. They added that continued stability in international oil routes and easing geopolitical tensions could further support market performance in the coming sessions.
A day earlier, the benchmark KSE-100 Index had already gained 1,934 points, closing at 164,831 points, indicating sustained bullish momentum at the Pakistan Stock Exchange.
