Karachi: The KSE-100 Index experienced a decline on the trading floor, shedding 386 points to settle at 188,202 amidst substantial trading activity, with approximately 745 million shares exchanged. The session saw the highest gains in the stocks of FFC, PSEL, and BAFL, while GADT, DHPL, and HCAR emerged as the top decliners. Trading was predominantly focused on the power, technology, and banking sectors.
According to Taurus Securities Limited, the financial and economic landscape is facing notable developments. The International Monetary Fund's third review talks are anticipated to occur in February. Concurrently, the Finance Division has released the fiscal year 2027 budget call circular, projecting a GDP growth of 5.1% and inflation at 6.5%. Notably, Foreign Direct Investment has decreased significantly by 43.3% during the first half of the current fiscal year.
Additional economic indicators include the World Bank's projection of Pakistan's GDP growth rate at 3% for the current fiscal year, while January inflation is expected to range between 5-6% according to the finance ministry. The Federal Constitutional Court has upheld the super tax, and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan is considering removing the requirement for Pakistani firms' shareholders to declare foreign shareholdings.
In other sectors, Australian firms are showing interest in expanding their involvement in the Reko Diq project. The government is advancing plans to develop underground gas storage facilities in response to increasing LNG diversions. Despite a tariff advantage, exports to the United States remained flat in December. The State Bank of Pakistan reportedly purchased $1 billion from the currency market in October, while copper exports to China have surpassed $1.14 billion. The value-added textile segment has seen a year-on-year growth, reaching $7.70 billion in the first half of the fiscal year 2026.
Other notable developments include a $430 million crude oil deal with the United States and a significant increase in K-Electric's payables to the government, which surged over 50% amid a tariff dispute. Additionally, Haleon is planning to upgrade its Panadol packaging line.