KSE-100 Closes at 164,626 Despite Banking Sector Support

The KSE-100 Index at the Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed a mixed session on February 25, 2026, as strong gains in select banking stocks failed to offset heavy losses in other major sectors. The benchmark ended the day at 164,626.29 points, down 1,632.25 points.

The index opened at 167,607.55 points and quickly climbed to a session high of 168,191.65, signaling early optimism among traders. However, selling pressure intensified in the latter half of the session, pushing the index to a low of 164,229.36.
Trading activity remained robust, with 351.26 million shares exchanged among KSE-100 constituents.

Market participants remained active, adjusting positions amid changing sector dynamics.

NBP led the gainers, contributing nearly 192 points to the index. MCB and BAFL also posted solid performances, reflecting investor confidence in the banking sector. HBL and FATIMA Industries added additional support.

Despite these gains, heavyweights in other sectors pulled the index into negative territory. UBL was the largest dragger, followed by Engro Holdings and PPL.

Cement stocks including Lucky Cement and DG Khan Cement also weighed heavily on market performance.

On a fiscal year-to-date basis, the KSE-100 remains strong with a 31.04 percent gain. However, the 5.42 percent decline in calendar year-to-date performance signals cautious investor sentiment in recent weeks.

Market observers attribute the volatility to profit-taking and global market influences. Analysts expect consolidation in the near term, with investors closely watching macroeconomic indicators, inflation data, and corporate earnings reports.

If the index maintains support above 164,000, recovery could follow in upcoming sessions. However, sustained weakness in heavyweight stocks may keep the benchmark under pressure.