TRADE & ECONOMY

KSE-100 Gains 638 Points Ahead of Budget Announcement

KSE-100 jumps 638 pts to close at 118,971 as budget optimism and strong corporate results boost investor confidence. Budget now set for June 10 after IMF talks.
2025-05-29
KSE-100 Gains 638 Points Ahead of Budget Announcement

The benchmark KSE-100 index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continued its upward momentum, climbing 638.5 points or 0.54%, to close at 118,971.40 on Wednesday. The previous close stood at 118,338.90.

At 1:45pm, the index had peaked at an intraday gain of 1,298.02 points, indicating strong investor confidence throughout the session.

Positive Market Sentiment

According to Samiullah Tariq, head of research at Pak Kuwait Investment Company Ltd, the market responded positively to expectations of a business-friendly federal budget, combined with robust corporate earnings from several key sectors.

"The market had better expectations from the budget due to which it performed well. Additionally, strong corporate results provided a hopeful outlook," said Tariq.

Budget Postponed Amid IMF Talks

Originally scheduled for June 2, the unveiling of the Federal Budget 2025-26 has been delayed to June 10, reportedly due to inconclusive negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on critical issues such as taxation and fiscal measures.

Informed sources revealed that the visiting IMF staff mission held multiple rounds of talks with Pakistani officials, including a wrap-up session with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, to finalize the contours of a new fiscal framework.

Analysts believe that any forward movement with the IMF could significantly impact the budget’s structure, especially regarding subsidies, tax reforms, and development spending.