Karachi: The KSE-100 Index climbed by 655 points, closing at 187,688, following a lively trading session where 1,066 million shares changed hands. Top performers included ATRL, AICL, and ISL, while PGLC, BOP, and PSEL saw the most notable declines. Trading activity was largely focused on the power, oil marketing companies, and banking sectors.

According to Taurus Securities Limited, the market's ascent reflects a positive shift in investor sentiment, with significant activity in key sectors driving the gains. The press release also highlighted various developments on the national economic front, including Pakistan's upcoming debut in the Chinese capital market with a $250 million Panda bond by January 2026 and ongoing discussions around a $7 billion rail connectivity project, slated for signing during the Kazakh president's visit in February.

Additionally, the news snapshot provided updates on Pakistan's international engagements, such as the army chief's meetings with world leaders in Davos and Azerbaijan's SOCAR nearing a final investment decision in Pakistan's oil and gas sector. The government is also in talks with international financial institutions and Saudi Arabia for $36 billion in loans to address debt servicing in the power sector, reflecting broader efforts to sustain economic growth and stability.