PSX scales another milestone of 148,000

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) soared to an all-time high on Monday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index surging 1,704 points, or 1.16 per cent, to close at 148,196.42 — its highest level in history — driven by renewed investor confidence amid credit rating upgrades, strong corporate earnings outlook, and anticipated economic reforms. Market optimism was fuelled by Fitch Ratings’ improved outlook on Pakistan’s banking sector and Moody’s upgrade of the country’s currency rating to Caa1. Analysts noted growing investor appetite on expectations of macroeconomic stability, supported by a stable rupee, strong earnings potential, and speculation surrounding prospective US-Pakistan trade and investment engagements. According to Topline Securities Ltd, the rally gained further momentum from reports of the government’s circular debt reform plan. The proposed measures include reducing LNG cargoes, revising RLNG pricing, and mobilising funds through LNG diversion savings, state-owned enterprise (SOE) dividends, and power sector receivables. Detailed proposals are expected to be unveiled next week, sustaining bullish sentiment.