PSX Maintains Upward Trajectory, KSE-100 Nears 119,000

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) sustained its positive momentum, as the benchmark KSE-100 Index approached the 119,000 mark, gaining over 400 points during Wednesday’s trading session.

At 11:05 am, the KSE-100 Index stood at 118,981.43, reflecting an increase of 405.55 points, which translates to a 0.34% rise.

Buying activity was prominent in key sectors such as cement, commercial banking, power generation, and oil refining. Major stocks, including HUBCO, NRL, MARI, MEBL, NBP, and UBL, demonstrated positive trading patterns.

IMF Discussions Commence

A team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is scheduled to commence discussions with Pakistani officials today. The primary focus will be on the upcoming budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. The government is also anticipated to provide updates to the IMF regarding advancements in tax expansion efforts, reforms in the energy sector, and the restructuring of state-owned enterprises.

Previous Day’s Performance

On Tuesday, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced robust bullish activity. Investors reacted favorably to the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. The KSE-100 Index concluded Tuesday’s session with an increase of nearly 1,300 points, settling at 118,575.88.

Global Market Overview

Globally, Asian stocks saw slight gains on Wednesday, while the US dollar fluctuated. Relatively mild US inflation data has raised expectations for potential rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later in the year, even as investors continue to assess the resolution of trade disputes.

Financial markets exhibited caution regarding the economic outlook, despite indications that US President Donald Trump’s global trade war might be easing, particularly with a temporary truce in the tariff conflict between China and the United States.

MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares, excluding Japan, rose by 0.9% in early trading after U.S. stocks recovered into positive territory for the year, offsetting losses caused by Trump’s tariff implementations.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index increased in early trading, supported by tech stocks, after strong results were reported by Chinese e-commerce retailer Jd.com. This week, investor attention will be directed towards earnings reports from Tencent and Alibaba.

Equity futures suggested potential declines in both European and US markets.

This information reflects an intra-day market update.