Karachi: The KSE-100 Index saw a significant increase of 1,248 points, reaching a new high of 125,627, with a substantial 1,142 million shares changing hands. The stocks YOUW, FABL, and BNWM led in price increases, while PGLC, TRG, and AGL experienced declines. Trading activity was primarily centered in the Technology, Banks, and Textile Spinning sectors.

In the broader economic landscape, the fiscal year 2025 recorded a real GDP growth of 2.68 percent. Meanwhile, fuel prices have seen an uptick, with high-speed diesel rising by Rs10.39 and petrol by Rs8.36 per liter. The State Bank of Pakistan has revised its TT charges scheme, raising the transfer limit to $200 and including Exchange Companies.

President has enacted the Finance Bill, implementing new tax measures worth Rs5 billion. However, the Federal Board of Revenue fell short of its revised target by Rs178 billion for FY25. A Pakistani delegation is currently in the United States to finalize a trade agreement, with the government forecasting a rise in exports and inflation to stabilize at 5-7 percent in FY26.

In other developments, the State Bank of Pakistan has revised its remittance rebate scheme, and Vietnam is prioritizing trade with Pakistan, eyeing a $1 billion target. The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan is planning to tap into the global olive oil market, valued at $14 billion.

A recent governmental decision has eliminated electricity duty, while LPG prices have decreased by Rs7.51 per kilogram. However, potential increases in generation costs due to FO levies and the imposition of duty on Galvalume steel are also noted. The Federal Board of Revenue has set the maximum retail price for cement, and the Fuel Cost Adjustment proposal by the Power Division faces opposition from Nepra and Karachi stakeholders.