Pakistan’s stock market opened Thursday’s trading session on a strong footing, driven by improving investor sentiment linked to easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The benchmark KSE-100 index at the Pakistan Stock Exchange recorded solid gains in early trading, climbing by 1,150 points to reach 169,670.25. This represents an increase of 0.68% compared to the previous close of 168,519.94.
During intraday trading, the index touched a high of 170,899.16 and a low of 169,517.49, reflecting active participation from investors. Market activity remained robust, with more than 81 million shares changing hands in the initial session.
Analysts attribute the upward trend to renewed optimism among investors, largely fueled by expectations of a possible diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran. Market participants are closely monitoring developments in the region, as any progress toward de-escalation could have broader economic implications, particularly for energy markets.
Meanwhile, global oil prices moved lower in early trading, as easing tensions between Washington and Tehran reduced fears of supply disruptions. Reports suggesting that Iran may allow smoother maritime traffic near the Strait of Hormuz helped calm markets.
Brent crude futures declined by 44 cents, or 0.5%, to settle at $94.49 per barrel. Similarly, U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped by 70 cents, or 0.8%, to $90.59 per barrel.
