Karachi, Pakistan – Web Desk: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a major sell-off on Monday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index plunging by over 1,700 points as escalating US-Iran military tensions triggered investor panic over potential global energy supply disruptions and rising oil prices.
Market in Free Fall
The selling pressure began immediately after the opening bell, with the KSE-100 index dropping to 180,392.40 points—a loss of 1,849.37 points (1.01%) within the first 39 minutes of trading. The decline deepened to 1,944.48 points (1.07%) by 10:00am, pushing the index to 180,297.29 points .
The market touched an intraday low of 179,448.52 before recovering some ground. By 1:09pm, the index stood at 180,513.45, down 1,728.32 points (0.95%), while the latest data showed the KSE-100 at 180,540.96, lower by 1,700.81 points (0.93%) .
Over 249.31 million shares changed hands in transactions worth Rs15.56 billion during the session .
Oil Price Surge Sparks Investor Fears
The market rout followed a more than 3% surge in global oil prices as renewed US-Iran military strikes reignited concerns over crude supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments .
Analysts attribute the sell-off to fears that the escalating conflict could disrupt global energy supplies, pushing oil prices higher and impacting Pakistan’s already strained import bill and current account balance .
Market Recovery Hopes Remain
Despite the sharp decline, analysts suggest that with the new bottom reaching the 180,000-level, the market may attempt a recovery ahead of the upcoming monetary policy announcement . The State Bank of Pakistan is expected to announce a potential 100-150 basis point rate cut, which could inject positive sentiment into the market .
