Karachi, July 15, 2025 The record-setting rally at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) lost steam on Tuesday as investors opted to book profits at higher valuations, sending the KSE-100 Index down by 562.67 points, or 0.41%, to close at 135,939.87.
The session began on a bullish note, with the index surging to an intra-day high of 137,748, buoyed by gains in banking sector stocks. However, the momentum faded as investors shifted focus to profit-taking, leading to a gradual decline. The index touched an intra-day low of 135,826 before settling just above that level at the close.
In its market commentary, Topline Securities described the session as a “classic tug of war between bullish enthusiasm and prudent gain-taking.” It noted that early optimism propelled the index up by as much as 1,245 points, but selling pressure in the second half erased those gains, ending the day 563 points lower.
Among notable gainers, United Bank Limited (UBL), Fauji Fertiliser Company (FFC), Allied Bank Limited (ABL), Pakistan Services, and Engro Holdings added a combined 564 points to the index. On the downside, Meezan Bank, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Hub Power Company (Hubco), and Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDCL) collectively shaved 350 points off the index.
Investor activity remained strong, with trading volumes at 879 million shares and turnover reaching Rs38.6 billion. The Bank of Punjab led the volume chart, with over 61 million shares traded, reflecting continued liquidity and market participation.
Arif Habib Limited (AHL) reported a moderate pullback following Monday’s aggressive rally and noted support is expected in the 135,000 to 135,800 range in the next session. AHL also highlighted a positive development, citing a statement from the finance ministry indicating progress on a preferential trade deal with the United States.
Market breadth remained negative, with 27 stocks advancing and 72 declining on the KSE-100. UBL (+2.7%), FFC (+0.73%), and ABL (+10%) were among the top contributors to gains, while Meezan Bank (-2.62%), PPL (-1.95%), and Hubco (-1.49%) were the major laggards.
Analysts expect support levels to be tested in the coming session as investors await further cues from both macroeconomic developments and corporate earnings.
