The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed the week on a high note, with the benchmark KSE-100 index breaking past the 140,000 mark for the first time ever. It surged 1,645 points to settle at a record 141,035, gaining 1.18% on Friday.
Energy stocks led the charge, fueled by speculation of US-Pakistan collaboration on oil exploration and developments related to circular debt payments. Heavyweights like OGDC, PPL, PSO, and Hubco were among the day’s top gainers. OGDC soared 9.7%, PPL climbed 7.1%, PSO added 6.7%, and Hubco gained 4.71%.
The energy sector alone contributed 1,152 points to the index’s rally, underscoring its dominant role in the market’s performance.
Trading activity remained brisk, with over 610 million shares traded, and the session saw a traded value of Rs51 billion. WorldCall Telecom topped the volumes chart with 55 million shares changing hands.
This marks the sixth consecutive weekly gain for the KSE-100 index, adding 1,828 points (1.31%) during the week. The index ranged between a high of 141,161 and a low of 137,659 before closing just above the 141k milestone.
Analysts say the strong rebound around the 138k level has now set 140k as a key support. If that level holds, the bullish momentum could continue. However, a dip below it might prompt buying interest again, especially amid attractive valuations and expectations of monetary easing.
“The market’s performance reflects growing investor confidence in Pakistan’s economic trajectory,” said Ali Najib, Deputy Head of Trading at Arif Habib Ltd. “We anticipate further upward movement, particularly as economic indicators and foreign investor interest continue to improve.”
