· Bloodbath session was witnessed today as crude oil prices surged to a seven-year high in the international markets amid intensifying tensions between Ukraine and Russia. Cement sector stayed under pressure due to higher international coal prices. Across the board selling was recorded as investors opted for risk-averse approach. Main board activity remained dull. On the flip-side, activity continued to remain side-ways as market witnessed hefty volumes in the 3rd tier stocks.

· The Index closed at 45,644.09pts as against 46,079.37pts showing a decrease of 435.28pts (-0.94% DoD). Sectors contributing to the performance include Commercial Banks (-76.6pts), Technology (-63.1pts), Fertilizer (-53.6pts), Cement (-42.6pts) and Engineering (-31.9pts).

· Volumes increased from 170.6mn shares to 187.8mn shares (+10.1% DoD). Traded value decreased by 23.0% to reach US$ 33.9mn as against US$ 44.0mn.

· Stocks that contributed significantly to the volumes include WTL, TELE, GGL, TRG and TPLP.

Courtesy – AHL