KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) opened Wednesday on a strong footing, with the benchmark KSE‑100 Index climbing 3,220.83 points, or 1.92 per cent, to 167,963.30 by 9:35am.
The rally was underpinned by falling global oil prices and a respite in Middle East tensions, which lifted investor confidence after weeks of volatility.
Broader market sentiment was upbeat, with 284 scrips advancing against only 16 declining and 260 remaining unchanged, reflecting widespread optimism. Trading activity was brisk, as 39.6 million shares worth Rs1.88 billion changed hands across 16,341 transactions.
Key indices also posted robust gains: the All‑Share Index rose 1.83pc to 100,427.09, the KSE‑30 advanced 2.10pc to 50,552.26, while the KMI‑30 climbed 2.08pc to 241,588.09. The Banking Index (BKTI) added 1.95pc, underscoring strength across financial counters.
Analysts said the rebound reflects a combination of bargain‑hunting and relief over easing energy costs, which have tempered inflationary concerns. “The calm in the Gulf and the dip in oil prices have given investors room to breathe, and the market is responding with broad‑based gains,” a brokerage note observed.
Market watchers cautioned, however, that sustainability will hinge on external financing clarity and policy signals from the IMF’s upcoming review. For now, the sharp rally highlights how quickly sentiment can swing when geopolitical risks recede and commodity pressures ease.
