The KSE-100 gained 125 points on Monday, July 20, closing at 175,927.74 as higher turnover helped the benchmark withstand caution over escalating Middle East tensions.
The Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX) benchmark rose 124.95 points, or 0.07%, from its previous close of 175,802.79, according to session figures.
Trading volume increased to 675.92 million shares from 621.02 million in the preceding session. The traded value rose to PKR 30.27 billion from PKR 29.88 billion.
Broader market activity remained negative despite the index gain. Of 492 active companies, 165 advanced, 277 declined, and 50 closed unchanged.
Total market capitalisation fell by PKR 28 billion to PKR 19.762 trillion from PKR 19.790 trillion. The description of market capitalisation as having increased.
Cnergyico Pk Limited (CNERGY) led turnover with 166 million shares. Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) followed with 49 million shares, while TPL Properties Limited (TPLP) recorded 38.43 million shares.
Market analysts attributed the volatile trading to profit-taking and uncertainty surrounding renewed fighting between the United States and Iran. Concerns centred on possible disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.
Read: Brent Oil Prices Top $90 as Hormuz Traffic Slows
Brent crude briefly reached USD 91.42 a barrel on Monday, its highest level since June 11, before retreating after Iran acknowledged receiving mediation proposals aimed at ending the conflict
