Stock markets across Asia, including Pakistan, faced a sharp downturn after reports of a possible US move to blockade Iranian ports heightened geopolitical tensions. The development also follows stalled talks between the United States and Iran, adding to investor uncertainty.

At the start of the trading week, the Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed heavy selling pressure. During intraday trading, the benchmark KSE-100 index plunged by more than 5000 points, falling to 161659 points. This marks a steep decline compared to the previous close of 167191 points at the end of last week.

Market analysts say the sudden drop reflects panic among investors reacting to rising geopolitical risks. Any escalation involving Iran, particularly in key shipping routes, could disrupt global trade and energy supplies, directly impacting regional economies.

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The negative trend was not limited to Pakistan. Across Asia, major indices also recorded losses. South Korea’s KOSPI fell by 2.08 percent, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 dropped around 1 percent. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index declined by over 1 percent, and China’s Shanghai Composite Index also edged lower.

Experts warn that continued uncertainty in US-Iran relations could keep markets volatile in the coming days, as investors closely monitor political developments and their economic impact.