Pakistan’s benchmark index traded in a narrow range amid a lack of market triggers and elevated crude oil prices, while SYS, UBL and MCB led gains.

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) recorded a range-bound session, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index closing at 166,419 points, up 0.14%, as investors remained cautious amid limited market triggers and elevated crude oil prices.

During the session, the index fluctuated between an intraday high of 0.31% and a low of 0.14%, reflecting mixed investor sentiment and a lack of strong direction.

The subdued movement came as investors assessed market conditions, with higher oil prices continuing to weigh on sentiment.

SYS, UBL lead index gains

Systems Limited (SYS), United Bank Limited (UBL), MCB Bank, Bank AL Habib (BAHL) and Engro Fertilisers (EFERT) were the leading positive contributors to the benchmark index.

The five stocks collectively added 269 points to the KSE-100 Index, providing support to the market and helping it finish in positive territory.

However, gains were partly offset by losses in Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC), Lucky Cement (LUCK), Meezan Bank (MEBL), Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTC) and Engro Holdings (ENGROH).

These stocks collectively dragged the index down by 223 points, limiting its overall advance.

PSO dominates traded value

Pakistan State Oil (PSO) led trading by value, with transactions worth Rs1.42 billion. UBL followed with Rs1.07 billion, while Cnergyico PK Limited (CNERGY) recorded Rs479 million in traded value.

Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and Attock Refinery Limited (ATRL) followed, with trading values of Rs473 million and Rs384 million, respectively.

Trading activity remains active

Total trading volume stood at 396.9 million shares, while the value of shares traded reached Rs18.7 billion during the session.

Despite the benchmark’s modest gain, the market remained range-bound as investors awaited stronger triggers to determine its next direction. Elevated crude oil prices and uncertainty over market drivers continued to shape trading sentiment.