Karachi: The KSE-100 Index witnessed a significant drop, losing 5,150 points to close at 174,454, with a trading volume of 768 million shares. The performance of stocks varied, with SSOM, HUMNL, and FHAM showing notable gains, while SNGP, BOP, and AKBL experienced declines. Trading activity was primarily focused in the technology, power, and banking sectors.

According to Taurus Securities Limited, the market activity comes amid a backdrop of various economic developments, including the government's decision to maintain the petroleum levy and notify a Rs4.04 per unit cut in industrial tariffs. Additionally, the State Bank of Pakistan has launched a 'cyber shield' initiative to bolster the security of the banking system, while auto financing in the country reached Rs328 billion in January. These factors, alongside other economic adjustments, continue to shape investor sentiment and market dynamics.