Karachi: The KSE-100 index experienced an uptick, gaining 232 points to close at 94,996, with a trading volume of 765 million shares. The highest price changes were observed in EFUG, PSX, and PSEL, while PKGP, UNITY, and BNWM saw declines. Trading activity was predominantly concentrated in the oil marketing companies (OMCs), technology, and food sectors.
According to Taurus Securities Limited, the broader economic landscape reveals several developments. Interest costs are projected to consume 40 percent of the 2025 budget, as reported by Moody's. The Ministry of Commerce has collaborated with other ministries to address EU firms' concerns. Foreign direct investment (FDI) saw a 32 percent increase year-on-year from July to October, reaching $904.3 million. Bilateral trade with the United States surpassed $6.5 billion.
The current account posted a $218 million surplus due to foreign inflows for the same period. The Ministry of Finance approved Rs1.1 trillion for the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), against a demand of Rs2.9 trillion. The Roshan Digital Account (RDA) attracted $8.95 billion, while the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) index appreciated by 2.25 percent to 100.86. Cement sector profitability remains intact, with ICT services exports soaring by 35 percent. Additionally, the sale of 35 percent of unallocated gas is underway, and the country is set to face a sharp decline in cotton harvest. Power generation rose by 7 percent year-on-year in October, and Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) increased its offer price for Agritech shares to Rs39.05.