· A positive session was observed at PSX today. The KSE-100 index opened in the green following much-needed clarity on the Monetary Policy Statement, with a 100bps point increase in the interest rate surprising investors and boosting their confidence as the bourse continued to trade positively throughout the trading session. Although investor’s participation remained sluggish owing to the ongoing political noise in the country. Volume in the main board remained dry while third-tier companies continued to dominate the volume board.

· The index closed at 39,717.15 pts, up by 29.89pts (+0.08% DoD). Sectors contributing to the performance include Chemical (+12.8pts), Miscellaneous (+12.3pts), Technology & Communication (+8.0pts), Power Generation & Distribution (+7.7pts), and Insurance (+7.0pts).

· Volumes increased from 83.3mn shares to 86.7mn shares (+4.2% DoD). The average traded value also increased by +11.2% to USD 8.5mn as against USD 7.6mn.

· Stocks that contributed significantly to the volumes are SILK, TELE, WTL, OGDC, & PTL.