KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) extended its recovery on Wednesday, with value-hunting lifting the benchmark KSE-100 index above the 158,000 mark amid cautious optimism over easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The KSE-100 index closed at 158,313, up 4,347 points, reflecting improved market sentiment. During the session, the index touched an intraday high of 158,586 and a low of 155,199, as buying interest remained firm across key sectors.

Analysts attributed the positive momentum to softer international oil prices and expectations of de-escalation in regional tensions, which bolstered investor confidence.

Topline Securities said the market’s upward trajectory was supported by strong performances from index-heavy stocks, including MCB Bank, Fauji Fertiliser Company, Systems Ltd, Lucky Cement and Hub Power Company, which collectively added 1,613 points to the index.

Easing oil prices, diplomacy lift sentiment

Trading activity remained robust, with total volume recorded at around 612 million shares and turnover at Rs34.5 billion. Unity Foods led the volumes chart, with approximately 72 million shares traded.

Ali Najib of Arif Habib Ltd said the PSX witnessed broad-based buying, with the benchmark index gaining 2.82 per cent as sentiment improved on the back of easing geopolitical concerns.

He noted that renewed diplomatic efforts, including Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, helped fuel optimism about a potential de-escalation.

Reports of a proposed peace framework and declining oil prices further supported the market’s recovery.

On the corporate front, the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation informed investors that the federal cabinet had approved the release of Rs4bn under corporate social responsibility spending, citing wider public benefit.

Additional support to the index came from major stocks such as Mari Petroleum, Bank Al Habib, United Bank, Engro Holdings and others, highlighting strong participation from heavyweight scrips.

Analysts expect developments in the Middle East to remain a key trigger for near-term market direction, with investors closely tracking geopolitical signals alongside movements in global oil prices.

Published in Dawn, March 26th, 2026