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, a development widely seen as pivotal for shaping the country’s near-term economic trajectory.

The benchmark index recorded a high of 168,755.19 and a low of 167,386.44, ultimately gaining 1,217.67 points, or 0.73%, to settle at 168,303.25. The market’s broad-based rally reflected optimism across key sectors, particularly cement, banking and fertiliser and energy.

The anticipated IMF approval has reduced uncertainty in the market, encouraging both institutional and individual investors to take fresh positions. The IMF inflow is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s external account position, support the currency, and guide fiscal reforms—all factors contributing to Monday’s upbeat performance.

KTrade Securities wrote in its market wrap that PSX kicked off the week with a solid upside, opening with a gap-up followed by a controlled consolidation phase. KSE-100 index advanced 1,217 points (+0.73%) to close at 168,303, keeping momentum firmly on the front foot.

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Leadership came from Fauji Fertiliser, with additional strength from Systems Limited, National Bank of Pakistan, Pakistan Telecommunication, DG Khan Cement, and Pakistan Petroleum, helping sustain broader confidence.

Market participation stayed healthy, with All-Share volumes clocking in at 781 million shares. Looking ahead, sentiment remains constructive as investors position themselves ahead of today’s IMF board meeting and the expected tranche approval. On the domestic front, the operational launch of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) office added another layer of optimism, likely enhancing investor confidence.

Overall trading volume increased to 783million against last week’s close of 686.8million. Value of traded shares stood at Rs49.9billion. Shares of 482 companies were traded. Of these 244 closed higher, 197 fell and 41 remained unchanged. Pakistan Telecommunication was the volume leader with trading in 60.9million shares, gaining Rs4.44 to close at Rs49.57.