The benchmark KSE-100 Index on Friday closed sharply lower as investors remained cautious amid fears of re-escalation in geopolitical tensions ahead of the weekend.
The index at the Pakistan Stock Exchange declined by 1,778.45 points, or 1.03%, to settle at 171,115.82 points compared with the previous closing level of 172,894.27 points.
KSE-100 Witnesses Volatile Trading Session
Market analysts said the stock market remained volatile throughout the trading session as uncertainty surrounding geopolitical developments weighed heavily on investor sentiment.
According to analysts at Ismail Iqbal Securities Limited, investors adopted a cautious approach due to concerns about potential escalation in regional tensions.
The benchmark index touched an intraday high of 172,287.45 points and a low of 170,393.12 points during the session.
Trading Volumes Increase at PSX
Despite the negative market performance, trading activity improved compared to the previous session.
Total trading volume increased to 431.76 million shares, up from 429 million shares recorded a day earlier.
The total market value traded during the session stood at Rs24.16 billion.
Banking and Energy Stocks Lead Decline
Analysts stated that banking, exploration and petroleum, and fertilizer sectors remained the major laggards during the session.
Collectively, these sectors erased around 1,212 points from the benchmark index.
The decline in heavyweight sectors contributed significantly to the broader weakness in the market.
Investors Remain Cautious Ahead of Weekend
Market participants remained cautious ahead of the weekend amid uncertainty over geopolitical developments and broader market risks.
Analysts believe investors may continue to adopt a defensive strategy in the coming sessions until clarity emerges regarding regional tensions and economic outlook.
KSE-100 Closing Snapshot
• Current Index: 171,115.82
• Change: -1,778.45 points
• Percentage Change: -1.03%
• Day High: 172,287.45
• Day Low: 170,393.12
• Volume: 431,757,518 shares
• Previous Close: 172,894.27
• Traded Value: Rs24.16 billion