The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) benchmark KSE-100 index experienced a slight retreat, closing at 64,816.47, down by 247.80 points or 0.38%. This fluctuation came amidst a day of varied trading, marked by a 594.05-point range that saw the index reaching a high of 65,353.66 and dipping to a low of 64,759.61.
The financial ecosystem is abuzz as Pakistan embarks on the final review of the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with the IMF. Successful negotiations could unlock a critical $1.1 billion tranche, further impacting currency valuation and economic stability.
PAKISTAN STOCK MARKET CLOSING SUMMARY – MARCH 15, 2024
| Index at Close | 64,816.46 |
|---|---|
| Change | -247.80 (-0.38%) |
| High | 65,353.66 |
| Low | 64,759.60 |
| Volume | 99,404,749 |
| 1-Year Change | 54.79% |
| YTD Change | 0.24% |
| Previous Close | 65,064.26 |
| Day Range | 64,759.60 — 65,353.66 |
| 52-Week Range | 39,482.17 — 67,093.96 |
TRADING VOLUME AND STOCK PERFORMANCE
Friday’s session reported a trading volume of approximately 99.405 million shares within the KSE-100 index. The performance of the 100 listed companies varied, with 30 advancing, 63 declining, and 7 remaining unchanged, reflecting a mixed sentiment among investors.
SECTORAL IMPACTS ON THE INDEX
The index faced downward pressure primarily from the Oil & Gas Exploration, Power Generation & Distribution, Oil & Gas Marketing, Cement, and Refinery sectors. Conversely, sectors such as Fertilizer, Automobile Parts & Accessories, Miscellaneous, Tobacco, and Chemical offered some support, albeit not enough to offset the losses.
KEY CONTRIBUTORS TO THE INDEX MOVEMENT
Notably, major losses were recorded by OGDC, HUBC, PPL, BAHL, and UBL, significantly affecting the index’s overall performance. On the positive side, contributions from EFERT, MEBL, LUCK, NBP, and MARI helped cushion the index’s fall.
BROADER MARKET TRENDS
Expanding the lens to the broader market, the All-Share index also faced a downturn, closing at 43,157.02, down by 105.90 points. The trading session witnessed a decrease in total market volume and value compared to the previous session, signaling cautious trading behavior among participants.
VOLUME LEADERS
The day’s most active stocks included HASCOL, CNERGY, WTL, and others, showcasing a diverse interest across sectors. These volume leaders highlight where investor focus was primarily concentrated during the session.
FISCAL YEAR AND CALENDAR YEAR PERFORMANCE
Despite the day’s losses, the KSE-100 index has shown remarkable growth, gaining 23,364 points or 56.36% during the fiscal year. Additionally, the current calendar year has also seen a positive trend, with a cumulative increase of 2,365 points, amounting to a 3.79% rise.
