Energy, Cement Stocks Weigh on KMI-30 as Index Slides 1.31%

The KMI-30 Index witnessed another challenging day at the Pakistan Stock Exchange, closing lower after sustained pressure from energy, cement and banking sectors. The benchmark index slipped more than 3,400 points, highlighting cautious sentiment among investors amid ongoing profit-taking.
Opening at 261,474.81 points, the market initially showed strength and reached 262,188.84 points. However, the rally quickly lost steam as sellers stepped in. Throughout the session, the index struggled to maintain stability, eventually falling to a low of 254,361.82 points before staging a partial recovery.
The closing figure of 256,499.31 points marked a loss of 1.31 percent, or 3,408.58 points. Traders described the mood as defensive, with many preferring to lock in gains rather than hold positions amid fluctuating conditions.
Trading volume stood at 111.48 million shares, suggesting moderate participation. Analysts noted that the decline was largely concentrated in a few heavyweight stocks rather than a broad market collapse.
Sazgar Engineering led the gainers with a strong positive contribution, while GHNI, PAEL, GLAXO and SNGP provided additional support. These stocks showed resilience and attracted selective buying.
However, the impact of OGDC, MEBL, PPL, Lucky Cement and HUBC proved too strong, dragging the index lower. Their combined losses erased gains elsewhere and set the tone for the session.
Even with the day’s setback, the broader picture remains constructive. Fiscal year gains of over 38 percent highlight sustained growth momentum. Experts suggest that such corrections are healthy for market stability and can create opportunities for value investors.
Investors are encouraged to stay patient and focus on fundamentals, as the PSX continues to offer long-term potential despite short-term volatility.