PSX jumps 1,200 points on IMF loan hopes

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) opened the week on a strong note as bullish sentiment dominated trading throughout the session. Investor confidence was buoyed by expectations that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board would approve the long-awaited $1 billion disbursement for Pakistan later in the day. The benchmark KSE-100 index touched the day's peak at 168,755 and the low at 167,386, ultimately settling at 168,303, up 1,218 points, or 0.73%. The rally reflected optimism across key sectors, particularly cement, banking, fertiliser and energy. The anticipated IMF's approval reduced uncertainty in the market, encouraging both institutional and individual investors to take fresh positions. The inflow is expected to strengthen Pakistan's external account position, support the currency and guide fiscal reforms.