TLDR:
• KSE-100 crosses 140,000 barrier
• Trump deal boosts investor confidence
• Energy and policy drive rally
KARACHI (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan’s stock market opened with explosive momentum on Thursday, pushing the KSE-100 Index past the symbolic 140,000 mark for the first time. A sharp rise in investor confidence, favourable economic signals, and renewed international focus on Pakistan’s energy sector triggered a surge that turned heads across the region.
Market opens with sharp upward move
The day began at 138,412 points. Within the first trading hour, the KSE-100 Index soared to 140,031.21 — a leap of 1,618.96 points, or roughly 1.17 percent. Market activity remained strong throughout, with the index peaking at 140,077.85 before stabilising slightly.
This rally pushed total traded volume to over 65 million shares, with a total value exceeding PKR 9 billion. Key contributors to this surge included banking, energy, and cement stocks — all of which saw heavy institutional buying early in the day.
Trump’s trade deal triggers global interest
The market momentum coincides with a statement from US President Donald Trump confirming a fresh trade agreement between Washington and Islamabad. Under the agreement, Pakistan and the US will jointly develop Pakistan’s vast untapped oil reserves.
This announcement has been interpreted by investors as a sign of renewed global confidence in Pakistan’s economy — and more importantly, as a signal that Washington sees strategic long-term value in Pakistan’s resource sector. For foreign investors, this is not just a bilateral project — it’s a strategic foothold.
Energy sector gains on oil optimism
Energy shares led the gains, reflecting expectations that joint US-Pakistani oil development will improve sector performance and attract fresh capital. Companies tied to exploration, refining, and logistics saw a spike in orders. Traders anticipate additional listings, contract awards, and private equity activity to follow.
Cement stocks also surged amid talk of increased infrastructure investment linked to energy logistics and export corridors, while banks gained on speculation of future inflows and stable interest rates.
Economic indicators add momentum
Pakistan’s macro picture is playing its part too. Inflation continues to decline. The rupee has stabilised. Foreign reserves have ticked upward thanks to remittances and IMF support, creating room for looser monetary policy ahead.
