Karachi, Pakistan – Web Desk: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed lower on Friday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index falling over 718 points as renewed US-Iran tensions and higher crude oil prices pressured investor sentiment .
Market Performance
The KSE-100 index settled at 171,021, down 718.25 points (0.42%), extending its weekly decline to 2.72%. The index tested its 200-day moving average—a level that has provided reliable support in recent months .
Sector and Stock Movement
Buying activity was seen in selected stocks, with Adamjee Insurance (+6.38%), TRG Pakistan (+3.66%), and Meezan Bank (+0.3%) providing support. On the downside, UBL, NBP, and Systems Limited were the heaviest drags .
In terms of volume, Cnergyico Pk, Trust Brokerage, and Kohinoor Spinning led the activity. Trading volumes reached 579.94 million shares worth Rs23.90 billion, with 186 stocks closing higher, 270 lower, and 36 unchanged .
Factors Driving the Decline
Investors remained cautious as US-Iran tensions escalated and crude oil prices surged near $100 per barrel, though a late pullback in oil helped the index recover some losses .
Outlook
Analysts expect the State Bank of Pakistan to keep the policy rate unchanged at 11.5% in the upcoming monetary policy meeting. The benchmark index has now fallen 10% from its July peak, with the 190,000 mark remaining a key upside target .
