The Pakistan Stock Exchange faced a strong bearish trend as the benchmark KSE-100 Index closed sharply lower. The index dropped by 6,042.27 points, or 3.21 percent, ending the session at 182,338.12 points compared to the previous close of 188,380.39 points.

Trading activity remained high in the ready market, where 933.099 million shares were exchanged. The total traded value stood at Rs66.413 billion, slightly higher than the previous session’s value despite lower volumes.

Market capitalization declined significantly, falling to Rs20.618 trillion from Rs21.186 trillion, reflecting widespread losses across listed companies.

Read more: Gold prices surge Rs42,300, hit record Rs572,862 per tola

Out of 487 active companies, only 83 managed to post gains, while 364 shares declined and 40 remained unchanged, showing broad-based selling pressure.

K-Electric Limited led the volume chart with trading of 104.157 million shares. It was followed by WorldCall Telecom with 48.363 million shares and Bank of Punjab with 31.347 million shares.

Among the gainers, Gillette Pakistan Limited rose by Rs49.52 to close at Rs544.76, while Blessed Textiles Limited gained Rs46.09 to settle at Rs506.96.

On the downside, PIA Holding Company Limited (B) suffered a sharp fall of Rs539.87 to close at Rs20,039.25. Unilever Pakistan Foods Limited also dropped by Rs435.17, ending at Rs27,345.83.

In the futures market, trading volume stood at 488.956 million shares with a traded value of Rs30.234 billion. Out of 318 futures companies, only 21 recorded gains, while 297 ended the session in the red.

The sharp fall shows weak investor confidence. Heavy selling suggests fear in the market. Global and local uncertainty may be adding pressure. Recovery may take time if sentiment remains low.