Pakistan Stock Exchange Extends Gains for Third Session as Buying Momentum Holds

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) maintained its upward trajectory on Wednesday, marking a third consecutive session of gains as sustained buying interest propelled the benchmark index higher, even as international oil prices surged on renewed Middle East supply concerns.

The KSE-100 Index stood at 164,863.97 points at 12:49 p.m., reflecting an increase of 396.77 points, or 0.24%, from the previous close of 163,038.46 points.

Trading opened on a steady note and accelerated quickly, with the index climbing to 164,830.55 points—a gain of 363.35 points, or 0.22%—within minutes of the opening bell. The benchmark subsequently extended those gains before retreating slightly from the session’s earlier highs.

According to initial market highlights, the index fluctuated between a high of 164,368.47 and a low of 163,545.69 points during the session.

Regional markets provided additional support to investor sentiment, with Asian stocks rallying on Wednesday amid renewed enthusiasm for artificial intelligence ahead of major U.S. corporate earnings announcements.

However, international oil prices rose sharply following an attack on a refinery in Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest crude exporter, reviving concerns over supply disruptions amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Brent crude futures advanced $2.02, or 1.8%, to $115.90 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $2.01, or 2%, to $101.91 as of 0735 GMT.

The spike in oil prices remains a key external risk for Pakistan, given the implications of higher energy costs for the import bill and inflation.

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