Lower global crude oil prices lift investor sentiment as the KSE-100 Index rises more than 1,300 points in early trading.
KARACHI: The benchmark KSE-100 Index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) climbed more than 1,300 points in early trading on Thursday, as a sharp decline in global crude oil prices boosted investor confidence and fuelled broad-based buying across the market.
At 9:36 AM, the KSE-100 Index stood at 181,316.64 points, gaining 1,301.71 points, or 0.72%, from the previous close of 180,014.93.
Strong Opening Session
The stock market opened on a positive note, with investors returning to the market amid improving global commodity trends.
Early market performance:
| Indicator | Value |
| Current KSE-100 Index | 181,316.64 |
| Change | +1,301.71 points |
| Percentage Change | +0.72% |
| Previous Close | 180,014.93 |
| Day’s High | 181,316.64 |
| Day’s Low | 180,686.36 |
| Volume | 6,535,556 shares |
| Traded Value | Rs915.13 million |
The early gains reflected renewed buying interest across key sectors, with healthy trading volumes recorded during the opening minutes of the session.
Declining Oil Prices Boost Market Sentiment
Market participants attributed the rally to the sharp decline in international crude oil prices, with Brent crude falling to around $79 per barrel.
Lower global oil prices are generally viewed as favourable for Pakistan’s economy, which depends heavily on imported petroleum products. A sustained decline in crude prices can reduce the country’s import bill, ease inflationary pressures, improve the current account balance and lower input costs for businesses.
The improved macroeconomic outlook encouraged investors to increase exposure to equities, particularly in sectors expected to benefit from lower energy costs.
Investors Eye Global and Domestic Developments
Analysts said market participants will continue to monitor movements in international commodity prices, corporate earnings announcements and key domestic economic indicators for further direction.
The strong opening suggests investors remain optimistic that softer global energy prices could strengthen Pakistan’s economic outlook, improve corporate profitability and provide further support to the equity market in the coming sessions.