KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) endured a turbulent four‑day trading week, with the benchmark KSE‑100 Index sliding 7,678 points, or 4.50 percent, to close at 162,994. The index had opened the week at 170,672, marking one of the steepest weekly declines in recent months.
During the 4-days week, the market lost eight key psychological levels, underscoring persistent bearish sentiment. The KSE‑100 touched a high of 171,306 points but later plunged to a weekly low of 160,391, reflecting heightened volatility.
Market capitalization shrank by Rs 854 billion, falling to Rs 18,022 billion, as listed companies struggled to attract investor confidence. Analysts said the downturn was driven by rising interest rates, regional tensions in the Middle East, and uncertainty over external inflows, which collectively dampened sentiment.
Experts noted that the sell‑off was broad‑based, with sectors such as banking, energy, cement, and industrials facing heavy pressure. “The combination of tightening monetary policy and geopolitical instability has created recessionary fears, leaving equities vulnerable,” a brokerage report observed.
Traders added that the IMF’s upcoming board review and surging global oil prices have further complicated the outlook, with investors reluctant to take fresh positions until clarity emerges.
Despite the week’s losses, market watchers believe bargain‑hunting could re‑emerge if external financing materializes and inflationary pressures ease. However, the prevailing mood remains defensive, with the PSX struggling to regain stability amid a challenging economic environment.
