KARACHI:

The Pakistan Stock Exchange extended its bullish run on Thursday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index climbing to 175,464.01 by midday, up 3,450.53 points or 2.01% from the previous close of 172,013.48.

The index touched an intraday high of 176,604.51 and a low of 174,291.25 so far. Trading remained active, with volume reaching 268.12 million shares and value standing at Rs22.68 billion as the market stayed open.

The gains build on Wednesday’s strong session, when the KSE-100 rose nearly 4,000 points to close at 172,013.48 amid broad-based buying. Over the two sessions, the benchmark has advanced around 7,400 points.

Buying interest continued amid easing geopolitical concerns after the US midterm elections, where results reduced near-term risks of further escalation involving Iran.

Read: US Vice President Vance says Iran war is ‘the reason we lost’ midterms

International oil prices also remained under pressure, supporting sentiment in import-dependent sectors.

Activity was visible across several counters early in the session, including banking, cement, and power-related stocks, which contributed to overall volume. The market has now moved firmly above the 175,000 level during the day, though it has eased slightly from the session high.

Investors will watch for further developments on global energy prices and any additional cues from international markets as the session progresses. The rupee also posted a marginal gain against the dollar in interbank trading.

The midday move reflects continued risk appetite following the previous day’s rally, with participation holding steady so far.