Karachi: The KSE-100 index experienced a decrease of 308 points, closing at 114,496, with a trading volume of 659 million shares. The market saw notable performances in EFUG, AGP, and GLAXO, while SRVI, PGLC, and PABC were among the top decliners. The day's trading activity was primarily driven by the Technology, Refinery, and Cement sectors.
According to a statement by Taurus Securities Limited, the day's market activity coincided with several economic developments. The government announced an increase in petrol prices by Rs3.47 and high-speed diesel by Rs2.61. Despite the fuel price hikes, inflation showed a decline to 3%, attributed to recent economic reforms.
The day also witnessed a 61 basis points drop in the yield of Pakistan Investment Bonds, reflecting some changes in the financial landscape. Additionally, the Large Scale Manufacturing (LSM) sector saw a year-on-year contraction of 1.25% during the first five months of the fiscal year 2025.
In other economic news, Pakistan has entered an agreement to export rice to Bangladesh, and KE consumers are set to receive a tariff relief of Rs4.98 per unit. The charging tariff for electric vehicle stations has been reduced to Rs39.70 per unit, reflecting ongoing adjustments in the energy sector.
Regulatory developments included a warning from Nepra on daily penalties to Karachi Electric (KE) and other distribution companies, reinforcing the regulatory oversight in the energy sector. In the energy production arena, OGDC has successfully brought the Kharo-1 well into production, contributing to the country's energy supply.