PSX Closing Bell: KSE-100 Index Crosses 149,000 with Strong Sectoral Support
The Pakistan Stock Exchange started the new month on a bullish note as the KSE-100 Index surged by over 1,300 points, driven by gains in cement, banking, and oil exploration sectors, with trading volumes crossing 1.18 billion shares.
Faysal Bank Reports 23% Decline in Half-Year Profit as Expenses Rise
Faysal Bank Limited reported a 23% drop in profit after tax to Rs10.42 billion for the first half of 2025, as rising operating expenses and weaker returns weighed on earnings despite growth in fee and forex income.
Soneri Bank Earnings Slip 22% in H1 2025 Despite Income Growth
Soneri Bank reported a 22% drop in profit after tax to Rs 2.49 billion for H1 2025, despite 14% growth in income. Rising expenses, tax pressures, and weaker forex earnings weighed on results.
Askari Bank Half-Year Profit Rises 24% to Rs10.7 Billion on Strong Income Growth
Askari Bank posted a 24% rise in half-year profit to Rs10.7 billion for 2025, driven by higher net interest income despite a fall in fee, forex, and dividend income. The bank declared a Rs2 per share dividend.
Banking and Fertiliser Sectors Drive Gains as PSX Closes Higher Amid Volatile Session
The Pakistan Stock Exchange closed higher with the KSE-100 index gaining 258 points, led by strength in banking and fertiliser sectors. Despite the positive finish, trading volumes declined as investor sentiment remained cautious amid sectoral divergence and macroeconomic uncertainties.
Privatisation Commission Seals Advisory Pact to Fast-Track ZTBL Sell-Off
The Privatisation Commission has signed a financial advisory pact with Next Capital-led consortium to oversee the sell-off of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited, aiming to modernise agricultural finance, attract private investment, and boost credit access for farmers and rural communities.
National Bank of Pakistan Crosses $1 Billion Market Cap Amidst Record Stock Performance
National Bank of Pakistan crosses USD 1 billion in market capitalization, delivering a 338% return in 2024. Despite record gains, the bank trades at a discount, making it one of the most attractive stocks in Pakistan’s financial sector.
MCB Bank Earns Rs. 27.31 Billion Profit in H1 2025, Declares 180% Dividend
MCB Bank posts Rs. 27.31 billion profit for H1 2025 with strong remittance inflows, stable asset quality, and focus on digital banking. Announces total 180% cash dividend for shareholders.
SBP Reserves Dip Below $14.5 Billion Mark Amid Mild Weekly Outflow
The State Bank of Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves declined by $69 million, falling below $14.5 billion, while total national reserves dipped slightly to $19.918 billion amid minor fluctuations in the banking sector’s holdings.
NIBAF Conducts Islamic Finance Training for NBP Officers to Boost Shariah-Compliant Banking Operations
NIBAF conducted a three-day Islamic finance training program for NBP officers in Islamabad to enhance their expertise in Shariah-compliant banking operations and product implementation, reinforcing the sector’s growing emphasis on ethical financial practices.