Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a notable decline on Thursday, with both the KSE100 and KSE30 indices closing lower. The KSE100 index fell by 1,703.62 points, a decrease of 0.97%, settling at 174,429.94, while the KSE30 index dropped by 565.05 points, or 1.07%, to close at 52,098.85. This downturn occurs amid mixed trends in regional markets.

According to JS Global, the PSX's market capitalization fell by 0.83%, reaching Rs 19,625.69 billion, equivalent to US$ 70.62 billion. The total turnover was recorded at 695.70 million shares, with a total value of Rs 25.40 billion, which translates to US$ 91.41 million. The decline in indices was led by several key stocks, with Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGP) among the top losers, showing decreases of 4.50% and 3.03% respectively.

In contrast, some stocks managed to record gains. Youw topped the gainers' list with a rise of 6.26%, followed by Hum Network Limited (HUMNL) with a 2.02% increase. The overall market sentiment was affected by a downturn in regional markets, with India’s BSESN falling by 0.9% and the Philippines' PSI declining by 1.0%. Conversely, Korea’s KOSPI and Taiwan’s TWII indices showed positive movements, closing up by 0.7% and 1.3% respectively.

The PSX's 52-week high and low were recorded at Rs 21,304.78 billion and Rs 16,570.52 billion respectively. Despite the recent decline, the year-to-date change for the KSE100 index remains slightly positive at 0.22%. Market analysts suggest that the local equity market is reacting to global market trends, which have been volatile amid economic uncertainties.