SBP rate meeting, Saudi investment to dominate PSX

Equity investors are closely watching the upcoming State Bank of Pakistan’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on Sept 14, anticipating a 200 basis points hike in key interest rates and its potential impact on inflation and economic stability. Simultaneously, all eyes are on an impending visit by a Saudi Arabian delegation, poised to unveil investment plans in Pakistan’s mineral, mining, and refinery sectors, market analysts said. The benchmark KSE-100 index witnessed its highest weekly decline in points since Nov 26, 2021, with a drop of 2,358 points or 4.95pcon the last trading session on Friday (Sept 1). On Nov 26, 2021, it had declined by 2,375 points or 5.11pc. Throughout August, the KSE-100 index grappled with persistent downward pressure, culminating in a 6.3pc decline, ultimately settling at 45,002 points. Investor sentiment took a hit due to skyrocketing fuel prices and escalating electricity and gas bills, leading to nationwide protests within the business community. A weakening rupee, soaring inflation, a sluggish economy, and a dearth of positive indicators continued to exert pressure on the equity market throughout the month.