Positive expectations linked to the upcoming Islamabad talks on a possible Iran–US ceasefire lifted investor sentiment on Friday, driving strong gains across Asian markets and the Pakistan Stock Exchange.

Improved hopes of a pause in conflict and stabilising global crude oil prices pushed the benchmark index higher, with the market crossing the 166,000 and 167,000-point levels during the session.

At the close, the PSX showed strong bullish momentum as the KSE-100 index surged by 1,673.86 points to close at 167,191.37 points. Market activity remained in the green zone throughout both trading sessions, reflecting strong investor confidence.

According to market data, 88.21 percent of listed shares recorded gains, while investor wealth increased significantly by 208.44 billion rupees in a single day.

Analysts said global attention on the ceasefire negotiations helped improve sentiment not only in Pakistan but also across international equity markets.

Meanwhile, in the global bullion market, gold prices rose by 30 dollars per ounce, reaching 4,753 dollars. This increase also impacted local markets, where gold prices in Pakistan went up sharply.

Also Read: UN chief backs Islamabad talks with hopeful message

Per tola gold increased by 3,000 rupees to reach 497,662 rupees, while 10-gram gold rose by 2,572 rupees to 426,664 rupees.

In the foreign exchange market, the Pakistani rupee strengthened slightly against the US dollar. The interbank rate improved by 1 paisa to close at 279.01, while the open market rate dropped by 14 paisas to 280.18.

Overall, optimism surrounding diplomatic talks helped support financial stability and improved market performance.