KSE-100 Plunges Over 13,000 Points After Trading Halt

Islamabad, Pakistan — The KSE-100 index plunged sharply on March 9, 2026, dropping 13,157.62 points or 8.35 percent by 10:50 am after trading resumed following an earlier halt. The market was suspended around 9:20 am when the KSE-30 index fell 5 percent from the previous close, triggering a full suspension of equity trading under PSX regulations. The index halted at 147,715.95 points, just above its intraday low.

This fresh sell-off comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a massive surge in global oil prices, which have rattled investor confidence across emerging markets. The latest decline adds to a volatile week for Pakistan’s bourse, reflecting broader concerns over the ongoing regional conflict and its direct impact on energy costs.

Key Highlights

• KSE-100 index fell 13,157.62 points (8.35 percent) by 10:50 am after trading resumed.
• Market halted at 9:20 am when KSE-30 index dropped 5 percent, leading to full suspension.
• Index halted at 147,715.95 points, near intraday low of 147,710.26.
• Sell-off driven by geopolitical tensions and global oil prices surging around 25 percent.
• Move comes after last week’s record fuel price hike of Rs55 per litre in Pakistan.

The sharp plunge carries significant weight for Pakistan’s economy at this critical time. With oil prices hitting levels not seen since mid-2022 and the Strait of Hormuz disrupted, the market reaction highlights how external shocks continue to test investor sentiment. Yet the country’s policymakers are already responding with an austerity plan to be unveiled today, showing proactive steps to protect macroeconomic stability.

Market analysts noted, “The heightened volatility reflects global risk-off sentiment, but domestic measures are being taken to cushion the impact on the economy.”

Pakistan’s stock market has faced tough periods before and demonstrated remarkable resilience. Today’s decline, while concerning, serves as a reminder of the need for prudent policies and collective national effort. The government remains focused on ensuring that essential sectors stay protected while working toward long-term stability for investors and citizens alike.

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