The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) concluded the trading week on a negative note Friday, reversing earlier gains due to profit-taking activities across major sectors. The benchmark KSE-100 index fell by 696 points, or 0.41 percent, settling at 170,478 points.
The session was marked by volatility, with the index reaching an intraday low of 170,254 points as investors sold shares to secure profits following recent upward movements. Institutional selling and a cautious stance ahead of forthcoming macroeconomic data were cited as primary reasons for the decline.
Market analysts observed widespread selling pressure, particularly in heavyweight sectors that had experienced rallies in previous weeks. The cement, chemical, fertilizer, oil and gas, and commercial banking sectors led trading volumes, reflecting significant portfolio adjustments by institutional investors.
Despite robust market participation, overall sentiment was dampened by ongoing economic uncertainties. Traders anticipate the index will likely trade within a narrow range in the upcoming week as investors await new catalysts, including updates on fiscal policy and foreign investment inflows.
