PSX Closing Bell: From Green Dreams to Red Reality

May 15, 2026 (MLN): The benchmark KSE-100 Index extended its losing streak on Friday, closing at 165,596.07, down by 902.76 points or 0.54%, as investor sentiment remained weak amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and rising global oil prices.

The index traded within a range of 1,632.95 points, reaching an intraday high of 166,924.48 (+425.65) and a low of 165,291.53 (-1,207.30) points. Total traded volume in the KSE-100 Index stood at 264.75 million shares.

Out of the 100 index companies, 41 closed higher while 56 declined, reflecting continued cautious activity across the market.

Among the top losers were PGLC (-5.27%), FHAM (-3.59%), KTML (-2.96%), BAHL (-2.65%), and ENGROH (-2.51%). On the gaining side, GADT (+10.00%), SAZEW (+4.18%), PIBTL (+2.22%), MUREB (+1.73%), and PTC (+1.54%) posted gains.

In terms of index-point contribution, ENGROH (-227.99pts), UBL (-144.31pts), FFC (-136.12pts), BAHL (-127.34pts), and LUCK (-77.59pts) were the major drags on the benchmark index. Meanwhile, SAZEW (+65.64pts), MCB (+27.26pts), BAFL (+19.85pts), POL (+17.04pts), and BOP (+16.43pts) helped limit losses.

Sector-wise, the market was weighed down by Commercial Banks (-306.74pts), Inv. Banks / Inv. Cos. / Securities Cos. (-235.89pts), Fertilizer (-186.95pts), Cement (-141.21pts), and Oil & Gas Exploration Companies (-57.31pts). However, gains in Automobile Assembler (+46.10pts), Technology & Communication (+22.41pts), Refinery (+16.45pts), Transport (+10.11pts), and Textile Spinning (+9.55pts) provided some support.

In the broader market, the All-Share Index closed at 100,017.71, posting a decline of 463.69 points or 0.46%. Total market volume stood at 625.45 million shares, while traded value was recorded at Rs22.31 billion. A total of 323,437 trades were reported across 484 companies, with 167 closing higher, 272 lower, and 45 remaining unchanged.

Investor sentiment remained subdued as global crude oil prices climbed to $109 per barrel following renewed tensions between the United States and Iran. Markets reacted negatively after U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning toward Tehran, signaling growing impatience over the prolonged geopolitical standoff.

The sharp rise in oil prices intensified concerns over inflationary pressures, external account risks, and the broader economic impact of prolonged instability in the Middle East. The uncertainty encouraged investors to adopt a cautious stance, particularly in banking, fertilizer, and cyclical stocks, resulting in another weak session at the Pakistan Stock Exchange.

To note, the KSE-100 has gained 39,969 points or 31.82% during the fiscal year, whereas it has decreased 8,458 points or 4.86% so far this calendar year.

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