Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a significant rise on Thursday, with the KSE100 index gaining 2,202.78 points to close at 136,502.55, marking a 1.64% increase. This surge comes amid a broader upward trend in the market, as reflected by the KSE30 index, which also rose by 738.33 points to settle at 41,552.62, a 1.81% increase.

The day's trading saw substantial activity with a total volume of 841.46 million shares exchanged, amounting to a total value of Rs 37.05 billion, equivalent to $130.13 million. This was an increase from the 52-week average daily turnover of 652.92 million shares.

Among the top gainers were POML, BNWM, MEHT, and ABL, each witnessing a 10% increase in their share prices. POML's share price closed at 234.81, BNWM at 103.28, MEHT at 426.80, and ABL at 180.66.

In contrast, the market also saw some declines, with KOSM, NATF, and IBFL among the top losers. KOSM's share price fell by 2.84% to 6.50, while NATF and IBFL decreased by 2.47% and 2.43%, respectively.

The PSX market capitalization reached Rs 16,494.37 billion, or $57.93 billion, showing a 1.26% increase from the previous day. Year-to-date, the KSE100 index has increased by 14.84%, while the fiscal year-to-date growth stands at 8.66%.

In parallel, regional markets displayed mixed performances. China's SSEA saw a slight increase of 0.3%, while India's BSESN dropped by 0.3%. Korea's KOSPI showed a notable rise of 0.8%, reflecting a significant year-to-date growth of 33.4%.

This positive movement in the PSX is attributed to increased investor confidence and a favorable economic outlook. Market analysts suggest that continued foreign investment and a stable economic environment could sustain this upward trend.