The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a sharp reversal on Friday as early trading pressure dragged the benchmark KSE-100 Index down by more than 1,100 points, ending its recent upward momentum.
The index fell to 171,728.22, losing 1,166.05 points or 0.67% compared to the previous close of 172,894.27. During the session, the market swung widely between an intraday high of 172,048.16 and a low of 170,393.12, reflecting heightened volatility before trading was temporarily halted.
Despite the downturn, investor participation remained strong, with over 176 million shares traded and a turnover of around Rs 12.45 billion.
Analysts linked the decline to profit-taking after recent gains, rising global uncertainty, and renewed pressure from international developments, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and concerns over the Iran-related conflict involving global powers. The surge in international oil prices and fears of foreign capital outflows further weighed on sentiment.
Heavy selling was observed across major sectors, particularly blue-chip stocks, which contributed significantly to the index’s decline. However, detailed sector-wise performance remained unclear due to the temporary suspension of trading activity.
The bearish session came just a day after strong bullish momentum, when the PSX had surged nearly 1,190 points to close near the 173,000 level, driven by optimism over easing regional tensions and strong buying in banking, cement, oil, and fertiliser sectors.
Market experts noted that the recent volatility reflects shifting investor sentiment, where optimism over geopolitical easing is being countered by profit-taking and global macroeconomic uncertainty.
