The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) moved higher on Friday as the benchmark KSE-100 Index gained 346.70 points, or 0.21%, to reach 166,532.86. Trading was suspended before Friday prayers, with the market showing a modest increase during the morning session.
The index opened near its previous closing level of 166,186.16 and traded between 165,956.51 and 166,663. The movement reflected limited gains as investors monitored market conditions ahead of the midday trading break.
Trading activity remained measured during the session. By the time trading was suspended, approximately 45.71 million shares had changed hands, with a total traded value of around Rs3.53 billion.
Market participants attributed the increase to selective buying in a small number of large-cap stocks. However, overall activity remained cautious, suggesting that investors were not making aggressive moves during the first half of the trading session.
The KSE-100 Index remained above the 166,000-point mark before the break. This level provided a key reference point for market participants assessing the index’s short-term direction and the strength of buying activity.
The session high of 166,663 remained within reach if buying momentum continued after trading resumed. Meanwhile, the low of 165,956.51 provided a reference level for investors monitoring potential declines during the remainder of the session.
Trading on Fridays is regularly suspended for the midday prayer break. Market participants were expected to assess the direction of the Pakistan Stock Exchange after trading resumed later in the afternoon, with further movement depending on investor activity and trading volumes.
