image sourced from original article at Pakistan's benchmark stock index plunged 2.3% on Friday as escalating conflict involving Iran rattled investors and raised fears of disruptions to global energy supplies and trade routes. The market closed at 157,496.10 points after sharp intraday swings, capping a turbulent week marked by heavy selling pressure.
Over the week, the index dropped 6.3% as geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel fueled risk aversion across regional markets. Foreign corporate investors led the sell-off, offloading $25.5 million in equities, while mutual funds sold $54.5 million amid investor redemptions. Banks, insurance companies and local corporates provided partial support through net purchases.
Economic concerns added to the pressure, with February consumer price inflation rising to 6.98% and the monthly trade deficit widening to $2.98 billion. Despite elevated average trading volumes during the week, investor sentiment remained fragile amid global uncertainty.
