PSX KSE-100 Gains 347 Points Before Friday Break
The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s benchmark KSE-100 index rose 346.70 points, or 0.21 per cent, to 166,532.86 by early Friday afternoon, before trading was suspended for Friday prayers.
The index had opened near the previous close of 166,186.16 and traded in a range of 165,956.51 to 166,663 during the session. Volume stood at 45.71 million shares with a traded value of roughly Rs3.53 billion at the time of suspension. These are mid-session figures; the final close will be set after trading resumes in the afternoon.
Selective buying, measured mood
Market participants attributed the modest advance to selective buying in a handful of large-cap counters, although overall activity remained measured ahead of the midday break. The prayer suspension is a regular feature of the Friday trading calendar.
With the index holding above the 166,000 level, the session so far reflected cautious optimism rather than aggressive risk-taking. Traders noted that further direction would depend on the tone after trading resumes, particularly if volume picks up in key sectors.
The day’s high of 166,663 remains within striking distance if momentum carries through the second half, while the session low of 165,956.51 provides a near-term reference point for any pullback.
Still below last week’s finish
Friday’s mid-session position sits below where the market ended last week. On October 9, the KSE-100 closed at 167,089.27 after shedding 352.63 points in dull trading, with bank selling erasing early gains. The index is still roughly 550 points short of that close, so the morning’s advance reads as a partial recovery rather than a breakout.
The broader trend this month has been choppy. The market has seen a 2,288-point plunge on political uncertainty, a near-2,000-point Monday tumble and a 1,332-point selloff — with occasional relief rallies, including the session that followed the prime minister’s export-led growth push.
Frequently asked questions
Where did the KSE-100 stand at the Friday midday break?
The benchmark was up 346.70 points, or 0.21 per cent, at 166,532.86 when trading was suspended for Friday prayers. The final close comes after the afternoon session.
How did the session trade?
The index opened near the previous close of 166,186.16, moved between 165,956.51 and 166,663, and saw 45.71 million shares change hands worth about Rs3.53 billion by the break.
How does this compare with last week?
On October 9 the KSE-100 closed at 167,089.27, down 352.63 points. Friday’s mid-session level remains below that finish.
