KSE-100 slips 352 points amid weak trading

KSE-100 slips 352 points amid weak trading

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed lower on Friday as the benchmark KSE-100 Index shed 352 points amid sluggish trading, political uncertainty and persistent geopolitical tensions.

The index settled at 167,089 points, down 0.21% from the previous close. Trading activity remained subdued, with total volumes reaching just 110 million shares as investors adopted a cautious approach ahead of the weekend.

Ahmed Sheraz, Head of Support Trading at KASB KTrade, said market sentiment improved slightly after US President Donald Trump’s remarks indicated limited prospects of further escalation before the US midterm elections.

Oil prices also eased after surging more than 5% in the previous session. Brent crude fell from nearly $106 per barrel to around $102–103 before trading between $103 and $104 during market hours, offering some relief to investors.

However, domestic political uncertainty and continuing geopolitical risks, particularly tensions involving the Houthis and the Red Sea, kept market sentiment under pressure.

Commercial banks, cement and technology stocks contributed to the decline. Major banking stocks, including HBL, UBL and MCB, faced selling pressure, while OGDC also remained among the stocks weighing on market performance. CNERGY, KEL and PIBTL were among the most actively traded shares.

Market participants expect the benchmark index to remain volatile and move within a narrow range in the near term. Investor participation may stay weak until greater clarity emerges on Pakistan’s political situation and regional geopolitical developments. Oil price movements will also remain a key factor shaping market sentiment.