Karachi: The KSE-100 index, a key barometer for market activity at the Karachi Stock Exchange, ended a volatile session with a decline, closing at 85,261, down 222 points from the previous session. This fluctuation in numbers reflects a broader trend of instability, hinting at more consolidation in the days ahead.

According to JS Global, the trading volume on the day tallied at 478 million shares, a decrease from the 561 million shares traded in the previous session. Analysts from JS Global interpret the recent high of 86,451 as the upcoming key resistance level for the index, while the support level could test yesterday's low of 85,156. A drop below this could signal a corrective phase targeting 84,122. Technical indicators like the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and the Stochastic Oscillator are also pointing towards a potential corrective trend.

Investors are advised to exercise caution, particularly at higher market levels, and consider buying on dips. The immediate support and resistance levels to watch are 84,910 and 85,859, respectively.

In individual stock strategies, ATRL and ISL both show potential for gains. ATRL is recommended for purchase on dips, targeting prices of Rs350.63 and Rs364.95, with a stop-loss at Rs336.22. Similarly, ISL, having closed above its 30-day moving average (DMA), suggests buying on dips to target Rs72.21 and Rs74.52, setting a stop-loss at Rs68.53.