Strong buying across major sectors lifts the benchmark index to 175,380 points, supported by easing geopolitical concerns and declining oil prices.

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continued its bullish momentum for the fourth consecutive session on Thursday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index gaining approximately 3,666 points, or 1.96%, to close at 175,380 points. Broad-based buying across major sectors further strengthened investor confidence and supported the market’s positive trajectory.

The rally was primarily driven by easing geopolitical concerns, declining international oil prices and expectations of improved global economic stability following developments surrounding the US midterm elections. Investors showed strong interest in commercial banks, cement, automobile assemblers, oil and gas exploration companies, and oil marketing companies.

The KSE-100 Index touched an intraday high of approximately 176,605 points before witnessing some profit-taking at higher levels. Despite the selling pressure, the broader market maintained a positive tone, reflecting continued investor interest in equities.

On the contribution front, UBL, LUCK, MEBL, SYS and ENGROH emerged as the leading positive contributors. Together, these stocks added approximately 1,293 points to the benchmark index, providing substantial support to its upward movement.

The strong performance of heavyweight stocks and buying across multiple sectors helped the market sustain its gains, extending the ongoing rally to four consecutive sessions.

Market activity also remained robust during the session. Regular-market volumes exceeded 999.8 million shares, while the total traded value reached approximately Rs46.1 billion, indicating substantial participation by investors.

The latest advance highlights improving sentiment at the PSX, with market participants continuing to respond positively to developments in international oil prices and the geopolitical environment.