The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed the last trading session of the week on a muted note, with the benchmark KSE-100 index slipping 38 points, or 0.03%, to settle at 146,491.
The market struggled to hold above the 147,000 mark as investors squared off positions ahead of the weekend. Sentiment remained mixed, with traders opting for a cautious stance while awaiting fresh triggers to guide the next market move, said Deputy Head of Trading at Arif Habib Ltd, Ali Najib.
On the sectoral front, EFERT, LUCK, ENGROH, MEBL, and AIRLINK emerged as the major gainers, contributing a combined 512 points to the index. Their gains were offset by declines in OGDC, UBL, PPL, HUBC, and MARI, which collectively shaved off 499 points.
Trading activity slowed compared to the previous day, with 472 million shares changing hands, amounting to a turnover of Rs32.8 billion. ASL topped the volume charts with 30 million shares traded.
The benchmark extended its winning streak to eight consecutive weeks, advancing 1,108 points, or 0.76%, over the period. Opening the week at 145,650, the index touched a high of 147,977 and a low of 145,259 before closing at 146,491.
Analysts believe progress on circular debt resolution could sustain buying momentum, though a phase of consolidation or mild correction cannot be ruled out. Immediate support is seen at the 145,000 and 143,000 levels, while resistance remains at 148,000.
