Karachi, February 16, 2026 – The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a sharp selloff on Monday as the benchmark KSE-100 index plunged 5,150 points, or 2.87%, amid escalating political uncertainty, weak corporate earnings, and sustained foreign selling.
The index closed at 174,453.93 points, compared to the previous close of 179,603.73, marking one of the steepest single-day declines in recent months. Heavy selling pressure was observed across major sectors, particularly banking, cement, energy, and fertilizer stocks.
KSE-100 Index Performance – February 16, 2026
| Indicator | Value |
| Current Index | 174,453.93 |
| Change | -5,149.80 |
| Percent Change | -2.87% |
| Day’s High | 179,969.22 |
| Day’s Low | 173,574.26 |
| Volume | 377,634,777 |
| Value Traded | Rs37.27 billion |
| Previous Close | 179,603.73 |
Market analysts attributed the steep decline to persistent foreign outflows, disappointing corporate earnings, and heightened political noise. Investor sentiment remained fragile due to uncertainty surrounding IMF negotiations, concerns over super tax impacts on high-earning companies, and fears of higher inflation.
Additionally, expectations of fiscal tightening and concerns over State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) losses added to the bearish mood. Changes in MSCI’s February review, which resulted in portfolio reshuffling, further intensified selling pressure.
Despite positive macro indicators, including a 15% year-on-year rise in remittances to $3.5 billion and a rebound in automobile sales to 23,000 units in January, market sentiment remained subdued.
Analysts expect range-bound trading in the coming week as Ramazan begins, with reduced trading hours and lower participation likely to limit volatility. Investors will closely monitor trade and current account data for signs of economic stabilization.