KARACHI: After an initial extension of the overnight bull run, the stock market witnessed a roller-coaster session on Friday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index trading between intraday lows and highs of 1,083 points and 421 points, respectively.

Despite the absence of any positive triggers, the market started on a firm note as bulls tried to sustain early gains. However, a section of investors indulged in profit-taking in the weekend session, dragging the index to a finish with a loss of 834.01 points (0.51 per cent) at 162,102.92.

According to Topline Securities Ltd, the PSX remained range-bound for most of the trading session, as the index traded between positive and negative territory with low volume; however, pressure was observed in the closing hours.

The top positive contributors to the index were Habib Bank, Bank of Punjab, Fatima Fertiliser, MCB Bank, and Habib Metropolitan Bank Ltd, which together contributed 150 points. On the other hand, Fauji Fertiliser, Pakistan Petroleum, Engro Holdings, and Maple Leaf Cement Factory lost value, weighing down the index by 417 points.

Ali Najib, Deputy Head of Trading at Arif Habib Ltd, said that, as expected, the PSX slipped into the red ahead of roll-over week, approaching from Monday, profit-taking dominated the latter half.

Short-term inflation rose 3.53pc year on year and 0.07pc week on week, adding to investor caution.

Market activity stayed moderate, with 767 million shares traded and turnover touching Rs28.6 billion. WorldCall Telecom continued to dominate the volume board, with 76.7 million shares traded.

Analysts expect the index to consolidate between 157,000 and 164,000. To sustain stability and lay a foundation for a potential rebound, the market should ideally avoid posting a new low in the upcoming week.

Published in Dawn, November 22nd, 2025