Karachi, Pakistan — The Pakistani stock market came under significant selling pressure on Tuesday, as the KSE-100 index closed lower for the second straight session. The benchmark slipped to 166,173, down 1,578.66 points (–0.94 %), as investor concerns over the economy and a possible revision in growth forecasts weighed heavily. Pakistan Stock Exchange
Although the day began with optimism — the index rose by around 766 points — that momentum was short-lived. Heavy profit-taking, especially from institutional investors, reversed gains and pushed the index past its intraday low near 165,997. Key contributors to the decline included Hub Power, Engro Holdings, Lucky Cement, Mari Energies, and United Bank, which collectively erased 986 points. Some support came from Habib Bank, Engro Fertilizer, Askari Bank, and Allied Bank, which added 380 points to cushion the drop. Pakistan Stock Exchange
Trading activity also cooled, with the volume shrinking by 0.63 % and value traded down 10.44 %. The Pakistan Telecommunication Company led in volume, moving 180.5 million shares. Pakistan Stock Exchange
Economic Pressures Adding to Market Jitters
Investor sentiment was dampened by reports that the government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are considering a downward revision of Pakistan’s GDP growth forecast, citing damages from floods to agriculture, infrastructure, and livestock. This scenario raised concerns over rising inflation, fiscal strain, and macro instability. Reuters Dawn
Despite these pressures, many analysts expect the index to remain rangebound in the near term, possibly oscillating between 165,000 and 170,000.
📊 Pakistan Stock Exchange Snapshot (Tuesday Session)
| Index / Metric | Value / Change |
|---|---|
| KSE-100 Close | 166,173.74 (–1,578.66, –0.94 %) Pakistan Stock Exchange |
| Intraday Low | ~165,997 |
| Key Losers (Top Contributors) | Hub Power, Engro Holdings, Lucky Cement, Mari Energies, UBL |
| Key Gainers (Supporters) | Habib Bank, Engro Fertilizer, Askari Bank, Allied Bank |
| Volume Change | –0.63 % |
| Value Traded Change | –10.44 % |
| Volume Leader | Pakistan Telecommunication Company (180.5M shares) |
| Growth Forecast | Under review; current IMF/analyst forecasts range ~2.6 %–3.0 % Business Recorder Dawn |
Looking Ahead
The sell-off in the KSE-100 reflects a mix of profit-taking behavior and mounting macroeconomic uncertainty. The possible revision of GDP projections and flood damage pressure adds to the market nerves.
For investors, the near term may present limited upside amid volatility. The key levels to watch are 165,000 on the downside and 170,000 on the upside.
For more in-depth coverage and real-time updates, check reputable portals like Dawn Business and Geo Business.
