KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a volatile week, with the KSE-100 index closing at 153,866 points. This marked a 3,630-point (-2.3%) decline week-on-week as rising global oil prices and escalating US-Iran tensions rattled investors.
The PSX opened the week with a sharp sell-off on Monday, plunging 11,016 points (-6.99%) to 146,480, marking the second-largest point-wise decline in its history. However, the market rebounded strongly on Tuesday, gaining 9,697 points (+6.62%) to close at 156,177, the second-highest single-day gain in history.
The bourse remained mixed on Wednesday, ending at 155,858, down 319 points (-0.20%), followed by another volatile session on Thursday, with the KSE-100 closing at 154,421, down 1,437 points (-0.92%). The week concluded with the index at 153,866, down 555 points (-0.36%), reflecting overall market uncertainty.
Analysts at Arif Habib Limited (AHL) said the PSX remained under pressure due to geopolitical tensions and surging petroleum costs. The State Bank kept the policy rate steady at 10.5%, adopting a cautious approach amid global oil price volatility.
The PSX performance was also influenced by strong domestic fuel demand, higher petroleum sales, and rising production costs for cement and other sectors. Auto sales and remittances showed mixed trends, adding to investor caution. Pakistan’s trade deficit widened to $3 billion in February 2026, further affecting market sentiment.
JS Global Research Head Muhammad Waqas Ghani noted that the KSE-100 index had fallen nearly 19% from its January 2026 peak of 189,167 points. Market participants remained cautious amid regional tensions, domestic security concerns, and rising fuel costs.
In other neews read more about PSX Raises Sahulat Account Investment Limit to Rs3 Million
The IMF highlighted progress in Pakistan’s Extended Fund Facility and Resilience and Sustainability Facility reviews. However, analysts said the PSX is likely to remain volatile until global energy prices stabilize and geopolitical tensions ease.
