Karachi, February 19, 2025 – The KSE-100 index, the benchmark of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), extended its bullish momentum on Wednesday, gaining 254 points as strong corporate earnings lifted investor confidence.
The KSE-100 index closed at 113,342 points, up from the previous day’s close of 113,088 points. Intraday, the KSE-100 index surged by 941 points, demonstrating a high level of investor optimism before settling with a 0.22% gain at the closing bell.
KSE-100 Index Driven by Strong Earnings
According to analysts at Topline Securities Limited, the market rally was primarily driven by better-than-expected corporate earnings, which encouraged fresh buying across multiple sectors. The KSE-100 index continued its upward trajectory from the previous session, supported by investor enthusiasm over key financial results.
The primary contributors to the KSE-100 index’s gain were Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC), Bank AL Habib (BAHL), Millat Tractors Limited (MTL), Systems Limited (SYS), and Kohat Cement (KOHC). These companies collectively added 433 points to the benchmark index. However, the gains were partially offset by losses in United Bank Limited (UBL), Lucky Cement (LUCK), Hub Power Company (HUBC), Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), and Oil & Gas Development Company (OGDC), which together dragged the index down by 619 points.
Market Activity and Trading Volume
Investor participation remained robust, with 667 million shares traded, generating a total turnover of Rs 25.7 billion. K-Electric (KEL) dominated the volume charts with 180.8 million shares exchanging hands, reflecting strong investor interest in the energy sector.
Corporate Earnings Highlights
United Bank Limited (UBL) – Banking Sector
• UBL reported 4Q2024 EPS of Rs 21.27, bringing its full-year FY2024 EPS to Rs 61.39, exceeding market expectations.
• The bank declared a cash dividend of Rs 11 per share.
Habib Bank Limited (HBL) – Banking Sector
• HBL’s 4Q2024 EPS stood at Rs 9.83, with a FY2024 EPS of Rs 39.85, surpassing analyst projections.
• The bank announced a cash dividend of Rs 4 per share.
DG Khan Cement (DGKC) – Cement Sector
• DGKC posted 2QFY25 EPS of Rs 6.21, bringing its 1HFY25 EPS to Rs 8.04 per share.
• The company’s performance exceeded industry expectations, driven by strong demand and operational efficiencies.
With corporate earnings continuing to fuel optimism, the KSE-100 index is expected to remain in focus as investors watch key economic indicators and sectoral performance in the coming weeks.