The benchmark index gains 376 points amid optimism over Pakistan-mediated diplomatic efforts involving Iran.

The KSE-100 Index remained largely in positive territory during Friday’s trading session, supported by a decline in global oil prices and signs of progress in Pakistan-mediated diplomatic efforts involving Iran.

The benchmark index climbed to an intraday high of 0.41% before closing at 177,697 points, marking a gain of 0.21%.

Investor sentiment was supported by easing oil prices, which helped improve expectations surrounding economic conditions and corporate profitability. The market also remained attentive to developments related to diplomatic efforts involving Iran, adding to the positive tone during the session.

The strongest positive contributions to the KSE-100 Index came from Systems Limited (SYS), Bank of Punjab (BOP), Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Meezan Bank Limited (MEBL) and Interloop Limited (ILP). Collectively, these stocks added around 594 points to the benchmark index.

Trading activity remained robust during the session, with several stocks attracting significant investor interest. BOP led activity by traded value with transactions worth approximately PKR 3.17 billion.

It was followed by Attock Refinery Limited (ATRL) with a traded value of PKR 1.62 billion, while Cnergyico PK Limited (CNERGY) recorded transactions worth around PKR 1.31 billion.

Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and Pakistan State Oil (PSO) also remained among the most actively traded stocks by value, recording approximately PKR 923 million and PKR 842 million, respectively.

Overall, market participation remained active, with total traded volume reaching approximately 686 million shares. The total traded value stood at around PKR 31 billion.

The latest session reflects continued investor interest in selected banking, technology, energy and cyclical stocks, while developments in global oil prices and regional diplomacy are likely to remain important factors for the market’s near-term direction.