The Pakistan Stock Exchange began the week on a negative note, with investor sentiment remaining cautious due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
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During intraday trading, the benchmark KSE-100 Index fell by 715.91 points to 149,682.80 points, marking a decline of 0.48 percent from the previous close of 150,398.71 points.
Market participants remained wary amid rising uncertainty linked to the ongoing standoff involving Donald Trump and Iran over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump’s warnings of severe consequences if the waterway is not reopened have heightened fears of further escalation and potential disruptions to global oil supplies.
On the global front, oil prices moved higher, reflecting supply concerns, while equity markets showed mixed performance. Futures linked to the S&P 500 edged slightly lower, while Asia-Pacific markets showed modest gains. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1.3 percent, and South Korea’s KOSPI advanced 0.9 percent.
Analysts noted that thin trading volumes, partly due to Easter Monday in several global markets, contributed to volatility, while reports of possible ceasefire efforts offered limited relief to investors.
The overall outlook remains uncertain as traders closely monitor geopolitical developments and their potential impact on energy markets and global financial stability.
