Marginal Gains Observed in Pakistan Stock Exchange Trading

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed modest gains during Thursday’s trading session, with an increase of approximately 150 points.

As of 11:40 am, the KSE-100 Index reached 122,909.16, reflecting a rise of 147.52 points, equivalent to a 0.12% increase.

Key sectors such as oil and gas exploration, OMCs, and refineries demonstrated positive trends, while the banking sector faced selling pressure. Major stocks, including MARI, OGDC, PPL, POL, PSO, and SNGPL, showed positive movement.

On Wednesday, the PSX experienced mixed trading. Investor sentiment improved due to reduced tensions in the Middle East. Key indices marked gains for the second consecutive day, with healthy market activity.

The KSE-100 Index increased by 515 points, or 0.42%, to close at 122,761.64 points.

Asian stocks showed a sluggish trend, while oil prices stabilized, and the euro remained near a 3-1/2-year high. Investors weighed geopolitical, economic, and fiscal uncertainties as they prepared for the US President’s tariff deadline.

Markets were calmed by a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, decreasing the risks of disruptions to the global oil trade and supporting sentiment.

MSCI’s index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan showed minimal change in early trading, as Wall Street’s rally paused overnight. Tokyo’s Nikkei increased by 0.9%, reaching a four-month high.

The US dollar experienced increased selling after a report suggested Trump considered announcing Jerome Powell’s replacement as Federal Reserve Chair by September or October. The intention was reportedly to weaken Powell’s position.

This development propelled the euro to its highest level since November 2021, last trading at $1.6805. The Swiss franc strengthened to a decade-high, while the Japanese yen appreciated by 0.35% to 144.70 per dollar.

Trump has frequently criticized Powell for not lowering interest rates and considered dismissing him or appointing a successor, impacting investor confidence in U.S. assets and undermining the central bank’s independence.

This information is an intra-day market update.