The KSE-100 Index delivered a powerful performance on March 18, 2026, surging over 4,000 points in a broad-based rally at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The benchmark index climbed 4,276.09 points, or 2.85%, to close at 154,292.26. This marked a continuation of bullish momentum, with the index hitting an intraday high of 154,684.45 and trading volume rising significantly to 397.4 million shares (valued at Rs22.3 billion), up from the previous session.
Investor sentiment stayed firmly upbeat, driving widespread buying across multiple sectors. The rally reflected strong confidence despite recent volatility in the market.
Most Active Buying Sectors
Notable accumulation was seen in:
- Commercial Banks – Leading contribution from banking heavyweights.
- Oil and Gas Exploration Companies – Strong interest in E&P names.
- Fertiliser – Robust buying amid sector optimism.
- Cement – Positive momentum in construction-related stocks.
- Automobile Assemblers – Gains in auto sector players.
- Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) – Upstream and downstream support.
- Power Generation and Refinery sectors – Broad participation across energy.
The Bank of Punjab emerged as the volume leader, trading 54.8 million shares and closing higher. Overall, shares of 483 companies were traded, with 339 advancing, 79 declining, and 65 unchanged.
This strong session highlights renewed risk appetite and sustained buying interest in key cyclical and defensive sectors.
