The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) began trading on Wednesday with strong upward momentum, supported by relatively stable global oil prices that remained below the $90 per barrel mark. The easing of concerns over major supply disruptions in international energy markets helped boost investor sentiment at the start of the session.
During early trading hours, the benchmark KSE-100 index recorded a sharp rise, gaining 2,047.87 points to reach 158,224.99 points. This represented an increase of 1.31 percent compared with the previous closing level of 156,177.12 points.
Market analysts attributed the initial surge to improved investor confidence following signs that global energy markets may avoid severe supply shocks despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. Lower oil prices are generally considered favorable for Pakistan’s economy, which heavily relies on energy imports.
However, the early bullish momentum did not fully sustain throughout the session. As trading progressed, profit-taking and cautious investor behavior reduced the gains. By mid-session, the KSE-100 index had trimmed its advance to around 1,587 points, highlighting continued volatility in the market.
Traders said investors remain sensitive to developments in international markets, particularly those related to the Middle East conflict and its potential impact on energy supply chains.
Meanwhile, global oil prices fluctuated on Wednesday after a report by the Wall Street Journal suggested that the International Energy Agency (IEA) had proposed releasing the largest volume of strategic oil reserves in its history. The move is aimed at stabilizing markets and compensating for potential supply shortages linked to the ongoing war involving Iran.
In early trading, Brent crude futures rose slightly by 11 cents, or 0.13 percent, to $87.91 per barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also edged higher, increasing by 7 cents, or 0.08 percent, to $83.52 per barrel.
