KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) steadied by mid‑day Thursday, with the benchmark KSE‑100 Index gaining 1,175 points, or 0.68 per cent, to reach 172,879.99 at 12:55pm.
The advance came after a volatile morning session that saw the index swing sharply between gains and losses within minutes of the opening bell.
Market breadth was supportive, with 347 scrips advancing against 119 declining and 94 unchanged. Trading activity remained intense, as 605.8 million shares worth Rs30.85 billion changed hands across 304,930 transactions, underscoring strong investor participation.
Other indices also posted gains: the All‑Share Index rose 0.79pc to 103,303.19, the KSE‑30 climbed 0.64pc to 52,067.08, while the KMI‑30 advanced 0.84pc to 248,500.06. The Banking Index (BKTI) added 0.21pc, reflecting continued strength in financial counters.
Analysts noted that the mid‑day recovery highlights resilience after the morning’s roller‑coaster swings. “The market is consolidating after yesterday’s massive buying spree, but the underlying sentiment remains positive on easing oil prices and calmer Gulf geopolitics,” a brokerage note observed.
Market watchers cautioned that while the mid‑day gains suggest stability, sustainability will hinge on external financing clarity and policy signals from the IMF’s upcoming review. For now, the PSX’s ability to absorb volatility and hold firm reflects investor confidence in the broader outlook.
