PSX Achieves 100,000 Milestone, KSE-100 Index Soars

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has reached a remarkable milestone, with the KSE-100 Index crossing the 100,000-point mark on Thursday. This significant achievement is not just a number; it represents a stunning 142% return over the past 17 months, showcasing the growing confidence of investors in the country's economic landscape.

As the market closed on Thursday, the KSE-100 Index surged by 813.52 points, climbing to 100,082.77 points from its previous close of 99,269.25. This rally is occurring at a time when inflation is showing signs of cooling and interest rates are declining, which has led to increased market liquidity and unprecedented gains for investors.

Over the last five years, the PSX has demonstrated its resilience, delivering an annual return of 20.9% in Pakistani Rupee (PKR) terms and 7.7% in US Dollar (USD) terms. This performance underscores the appeal of the PSX as a viable investment option for both local and international investors.

Farrukh H. Sabzwari, the Managing Director and CEO of PSX, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, "KSE-100 Index crossing the 100,000 mark is a proud moment for Pakistan Stock Exchange and a testament to the trust of our investors and the progress of the nation’s economy." He emphasized that this milestone reflects the potential of the capital market and the importance of sustainable growth.

Sabzwari further highlighted the need to expand retail investor participation, which he believes is crucial for fostering inclusivity and resilience in the market. He stated, "Our focus is on driving sustainable growth and working towards increasing the depth of our market and ensuring it supports the broader economic objectives of the country." This approach aims to enhance the market's ability to attract long-term investments.

Additionally, he pointed out the importance of broadening the base of listed companies, especially from underrepresented sectors. By doing so, the PSX aims to improve Pakistan’s market capitalisation-to-GDP ratio, which will further complement economic growth.

On the same day, Governor Sindh, Kamran Tessori, visited the PSX to celebrate this historic achievement and congratulate the management. This visit underscores the significance of the milestone not only for the PSX but also for the overall economic development of Pakistan.

The crossing of the 100,000-point mark by the KSE-100 Index is a significant indicator of the positive trajectory of Pakistan's economy. It reflects the trust of investors and the potential for future growth. As the PSX continues to evolve and adapt to the changing economic landscape, it is poised to play a crucial role in driving the nation’s economic objectives forward. Investors and stakeholders alike should remain optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead in this thriving market.