KARACHI, June 15, 2026: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) posted a strong rally on Monday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index gaining 4,639 points, or 2.69%, to close at 177,040, as investors welcomed the FY27 federal budget, the State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to keep interest rates unchanged, and optimism over a possible U.S.-Iran peace agreement.
Investor sentiment remained upbeat after the federal budget introduced several market-friendly measures. In particular, the reduction in Super Tax for selected sectors improved the earnings outlook for listed companies and encouraged broad-based buying.
Moreover, reports that the United States and Iran could sign a peace agreement in Geneva later this week further boosted market confidence. The development increased investors’ appetite for risk and supported gains across major sectors.
Meanwhile, the State Bank of Pakistan kept the policy rate unchanged at 11.5%, in line with market expectations. The decision reinforced confidence by signaling policy stability amid rising inflation and regional uncertainty.
Among index-heavy stocks, UBL, HUBC, Lucky Cement, Engro Holdings, Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC), Systems Limited, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC), and National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) led the rally. Collectively, these stocks added 2,586 points to the benchmark index.
Trading activity also remained robust. Total traded volume reached 980.5 million shares, while market turnover stood at Rs63.3 billion. KOSM emerged as the most actively traded stock, with 64.1 million shares changing hands.
Market analysts said the combination of a growth-oriented budget, stable monetary policy, and improving geopolitical sentiment created a favorable environment for equities.
Looking ahead, analysts expect the market to maintain its positive momentum and move toward its record closing level of above 189,000 points. However, they cautioned that investors will continue to monitor the implementation of budget measures, global developments, and regional geopolitical risks.