KARACHI: The KSE-100 Index surged by 1,018 points, closing at 142,053, with a trading volume of 664 million shares. The top gainers in terms of price change were FHAM, TRG, and AGL, whereas PKGP, BNWM, and THALL saw declines. Market activity was primarily concentrated in the technology, cement, and refinery sectors.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has called for a protest, marking the beginning of what it describes as a struggle for justice. In response, the Rawalpindi administration has banned assemblies and gatherings for a week in anticipation of the demonstration.
In economic developments, the Prime Minister has restarted the remittance subsidy, contributing to a reduction in the budget deficit, which has dropped to 5.4 percent in the fiscal year 2025 from 6.8 percent in the previous year. Discussions on economic cooperation have also taken place between Finance Minister Dar and Senator Rubio.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has hinted at a potential negative tariff adjustment of Rs1.80 per unit, and new regulations have been introduced to curb economic transactions of ineligible persons. Additionally, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) plans to disallow 50 percent of business expenditures while easing key provisions of the Finance Act.
On the trade front, Dhaka is exploring Pakistan's coal-to-power industry as trade ties expand, and the "Mera Brand Pakistan" Expo aims to build trust. The Karachi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) has welcomed 12 new agreements between Pakistan and Iran.
Following breakthrough talks between the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the government, a planned traders' strike has been called off. The power sector has seen a reduction in circular debt by Rs780 billion, and the State Bank of Pakistan is supporting digital payments as part of a push toward a cashless future.
The Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) has issued tenders to buy 100,000 metric tons of sugar, and the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has rescheduled sugar cartel case hearings to September. Oil marketing company (OMC) sales in Pakistan dropped by 22 percent month-on-month in July 2025 but increased by 2 percent year-on-year.
In agriculture, Pakistan's cotton production has decreased by 30 percent, according to a report by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners' Association (PCGA). The Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC) has received its first interest payment of Rs7.7 billion.
Finally, TOMCL has entered the Tajikistan market with a $3.24 million frozen beef export deal, marking a significant expansion in its international trade efforts.