pakistan Stock Exchange Gains on Positive Inflows and OMC Margin Hopes
Table of Contents
The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced gains on December 9th, 2025, driven by positive foreign portfolio inflows and anticipation of increased profit margins for Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). The benchmark KSE-100 index closed at 62,991.73 points,showing an increase of 239.43 points, or 0.38 percent.
Foreign Portfolio Inflows
Foreign portfolio inflows reached $190 million in November, although this represented a 7% decrease compared to the previous month. Despite the monthly decline, cumulative inflows for the first five months of Fiscal Year 2026 (5MFY26) have climbed 9% year-on-year to $1.614 billion [Dawn]. This positive trend suggests continued investor confidence in the Pakistani market.
PSO Gains on Margin Expectations
pakistan State Oil (PSO) saw a gain of 2.37% following reports that the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) was likely to approve increased profit margins for OMCs and petroleum dealers. The ECC did approve these margin increases later in the day, perhaps boosting profitability for companies in the petroleum sector. This decision aims to address concerns raised by OMCs and dealers regarding the impact of rising costs and exchange rate fluctuations.
Market Activity and Volume
Market activity remained strong, with trading volume surging 31.76% to 1.03 billion shares. However, the traded value only increased marginally by 2.7% to Rs51.3 billion.K-Electric led the volume chart, with 86.7 million shares traded. The increased volume indicates heightened investor participation, while the modest increase in traded value suggests that the gains were concentrated in a smaller number of stocks.
Key Takeaways
- The KSE-100 index increased by 0.38% to close at 62,991.73 points.
- Foreign portfolio inflows for November were $190 million, with 5MFY26 inflows at $1.614 billion (a 9% year-on-year increase).
- PSO gained 2.37% on expectations of increased OMC profit margins, which were later approved by the ECC.
- Trading volume increased significantly (31.76%), while traded value saw a smaller increase (2.7%).
- K-Electric was the most actively traded stock, with 86.7 million shares changing hands.
Looking Ahead: The PSX’s performance will likely continue to be influenced by macroeconomic factors, government policies, and global market trends. The recent increase in OMC margins could provide a boost to the energy sector, while sustained foreign inflows are crucial for maintaining positive momentum. Investors will be closely watching upcoming economic data releases and policy announcements for further direction.
Published in Dawn, December 10th, 2025
Keep reading