KMI-30 Records Major Decline as Investor Sentiment Turns Cautious

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a volatile session on Tuesday, with the KMI-30 index ending deep in the red amid selling pressure in key sectors including cement, energy and technology.

The benchmark Islamic index closed at 242,598.23 points, registering a decline of 2,138.05 points or 0.87 percent compared to the previous trading session. During intraday trade, the market reached a high of 246,661.47 points before retreating to a session low of 242,462.99.
Experts said the decline reflected cautious investor sentiment, as traders opted for profit-taking after recent market gains. The total volume of index constituents was recorded at 241.53 million shares.

Data showed Lucky Cement was the largest negative contributor to the index, dragging it down by 343.05 points. Engro Holdings followed with a negative impact of 340.93 points, while Systems Limited, Maple Leaf Cement and Hub Power Company also weighed on market performance.

In contrast, Meezan Bank emerged as the top positive contributor, adding 69.55 points to the index. Airlink Communication and Cnergyico also supported the market during the session.

Market observers noted that while short-term volatility persists, the KMI-30 still reflects strong fiscal year performance, posting gains of 31.21 percent on an FYTD basis. However, the index remains down 2.39 percent on a calendar year basis.

Analysts believe investor confidence in the coming days will depend on economic stability, monetary policy expectations, and developments related to Pakistan’s external financing outlook.