Karachi: The KSE-100 Index experienced a significant increase, climbing 1,836 points to close at 184,174 with a total of 344 million shares traded. The trading session saw notable performance gains in JVDC, KTML, and ILP, while PGLC, AICL, and HCAR experienced declines. The main trading activity was centered around the Power, Technology, and OMC sectors.

According to Taurus Securities Limited, the market's upward momentum coincided with broader economic developments, including the government's announcement of a relief package welcomed by industrialists and exporters. Additionally, a reduction in power tariffs for industries and a decline in the Export Refinance Scheme rate to 4.5% were reported. Despite these positive indicators, the FBR's tax collections from July to January FY26 fell short of targets by 2 trillion, reflecting ongoing fiscal challenges.

In related energy sector news, Ogra increased LPG prices by Rs 6.37 per kg, while the price of high-speed diesel rose, with petrol prices remaining unchanged. The government also announced measures to expand economic engagement with the European Union and approved an annual auction quantum for 800MW of wheeling over the next five years.

The financial landscape showed mixed signals as Pakistan's private sector credit surged by Rs 589 billion this year, contrasted by a breach in the public debt limit by Rs 17 trillion. Meanwhile, the World Bank committed to a $379 million loan aimed at overhauling the country's power transmission infrastructure.