The KSE-100 Index continued its upward momentum on Thursday, closing at nearly 172,900 points after gaining around 1,190 points in a constructive session marked by strong participation across key sectors.

The KSE-100 extended its upward momentum, closing at 172,894 points, up 1,189 points (+0.69% DoD), in another constructive session supported by broad-based participation across major sectors.

“Sentiment remained positive throughout the day, with strength emerging from cements, oil and gas, power, and commercial banks, keeping the benchmark comfortably in the green,” said Ahmed Sheraz of KASB KTrade.

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Heavyweights including UBL, FFC, LUCK, OGDC, MARI, MTL, MEBL, and PPL remained key contributors on the positive side, reflecting continued institutional interest in index-heavy names. Activity levels also stayed healthy, with 429 million shares traded in the (KSE100) benchmark index. Volume leaders included BOP, MLCF, and KEL.

On the external front, international oil prices hovering near the $98-99/bbl range continued to support sentiment by easing concerns around imported inflation and external account pressure. Markets also remained attentive to developments surrounding US-Iran negotiations, where diplomatic signals have gradually improved over recent sessions.

Reports suggesting constructive engagement between both sides, alongside Pakistan’s role in facilitating communication, helped cool immediate geopolitical fears in the region. For now, the broader market tone remains constructive, though near-term direction will continue to depend on how these negotiations evolve and whether stability in global oil prices sustains.