Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a steady climb on its benchmark indices as the KSE100 index rose by 313.45 points to close at 158,183.95, marking a 0.20% increase. The KSE30 index also saw a slight uptick of 47.49 points, closing at 47,890.56, reflecting a 0.10% rise.
The trading session recorded a total volume of 757.24 million shares, with a turnover amounting to Rs 33.41 billion, equivalent to approximately $119.01 million. The market capitalization, however, saw a marginal decline of 0.07%, standing at Rs 18,067.01 billion ($64.35 billion).
Among the top gainers, KTML led with a 9.99% increase, closing at Rs 52.61 per share. FHAM followed with an 8.15% rise, while PSEL saw a 6.80% gain. Other notable gainers included BNWM and LOTCHEM, up by 6.49% and 5.41% respectively.
Conversely, the market also witnessed a decline in certain stocks. PGLC experienced the largest drop, falling by 4.91% to Rs 15.49. MEHT and TGL also saw declines, decreasing by 3.14% and 2.45% respectively. SEARL and MTL posted declines of 2.03% and 1.96%.
In terms of market activity, FNEL recorded the highest trading volume with 89.37 million shares traded, followed by PIAHCLA and WTL. BOP and AMTEX also featured prominently in trading volumes for the day.
Regional markets showed mixed trends, with Korea's KOSPI index leading with a 1.1% gain, while Malaysia's KLSE saw a 0.2% decline. The Philippines' PSI marked a notable rise of 1.5%, whereas China's SSEA saw a slight decrease of 0.1%.
These movements reflect a broader pattern of fluctuating market conditions across the region, influenced by various economic factors and investor sentiment. As the year progresses, market analysts will watch closely for trends that may impact future trading sessions.