Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Feb 4 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The benchmark KSE-100 Index continued its upward momentum, surging to an intraday high of 188,312 before settling at a new all-time high of 187,832, registering a gain of 931 points (0.50%). Gains were driven by broad-based buying, led by Commercial Banks with selective strength in Power Generation & Distribution.
  • On the macro front, Pakistan and Kazakhstan signed 36 agreements and MoUs across multiple sectors, including petroleum, mining, and maritime affairs, with the Prime Minister reiterating the $1bn bilateral trade target. In terms of index contribution, MEBL, ENGROH, NBP, UBL, & HMB, emerged as key drivers, collectively adding 739.61 to the benchmark. On the volumes front, KEL led activity with 590.87 million shares; while overall market turnover stood at 1,193.66 million shares, reflecting healthy participation.
MCB Bank Limited (MCB): Earnings soften amid margin compression and normalization of non-core income – By HMFS Research

Feb 4 2026


HMFS Research


  • MCB Bank Limited (MCB) has announced its consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2025, reporting profit after tax of PKR 58.8bn, translating into EPS of PKR 49.29 (in line with our expectations), down ~7.6% Y/Y compared to PKR 63.5bn (EPS: PKR 53.35) in CY24. The earnings decline largely reflects pressure on net interest income, higher operating costs, and normalization in non-markup income, partially offset by lower provisioning charges. On the payout front, MCB gave PKR 36/ per share as dividend with PKR 9 distributed in its final quarter (also in line with HMFS expectations).
  • Net markup/interest income declined ~4% Y/Y to PKR 161.2bn, primarily due to, a sharp rise in interest expense (~32% Y/Y). Non-markup income rose trivially by ~0.4% Y/Y to PKR 41.4bn Aided by improved FX income (~13% Y/Y), sharp increase in Dividend income (~52% Y/Y), and Income from derivates (~3x Y/Y).
Pakistan Market Wrap: Bullish Momentum Holds Firm – By HMFS Research

Feb 4 2026


HMFS Research


  • The KSE-100 Index maintained its bullish trajectory during today’s trading session, supported by strengthening economic indicators, optimism surrounding the potential inclusion of Pakistani equities in the JP Morgan Frontier Markets Index, expanding export volumes to China, and improving bilateral trade relations with key partner economies. The positive sentiment kept investor participation buoyant, enabling the benchmark to close at 187,832, marking a gain of 931 points from the previous session.
  • Trading activity remained robust, with 768mn shares exchanged on the KSE-100 Index and 1.19bn shares traded across the broader market. KEL (591mn shares) emerged as the top volume leader, followed by WAVESAPP (36mn shares) and FNEL (33mn shares). Market momentum is expected to remain constructive, supported by the ongoing corporate results season as investors recalibrate portfolios in response to earnings announcements. While elevated valuations may trigger intermittent profit-taking spells, the overall market outlook remains favourable. Investors are advised to remain vigilant, closely monitor evolving developments, and focus on fundamentally strong stocks offering sustainable long-term growth potential.
Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Feb 4 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The benchmark KSE-100 Index continued its upward momentum, surging to an intraday high of 188,312 before settling at a new all-time high of 187,832, registering a gain of 931 points (0.50%). Gains were driven by broad-based buying, led by Commercial Banks with selective strength in Power Generation & Distribution.
  • On the macro front, Pakistan and Kazakhstan signed 36 agreements and MoUs across multiple sectors, including petroleum, mining, and maritime affairs, with the Prime Minister reiterating the $1bn bilateral trade target. In terms of index contribution, MEBL, ENGROH, NBP, UBL, & HMB, emerged as key drivers, collectively adding 739.61 to the benchmark. On the volumes front, KEL led activity with 590.87 million shares; while overall market turnover stood at 1,193.66 million shares, reflecting healthy participation.
Engro Powergen Qadirpur Limited (EPQL): 4QCY25 Result Review – By Taurus Research

Feb 4 2026


Taurus Securities


  • Board Meeting: February 04, 2026.
  • 4QCY25 LPS: PKR 0.05; DPS: PKR 1.25; LAT: PKR 15Mn, down 1.0xYoY over the SPLY – below expectations.
  • EPQL’s net sales clocked-in at PKR 3.2Bn in 4QCY25, down 4%QoQ due to lower plant utilization. Gross margins hovered at 6%, down 8pptsQoQ on account of increase in fuel cost component. Moreover, CY25 sales dropped 10%YoY on the back of major scheduled outage in 2025 and reduction in capacity payments due to implementation of hybrid take & pay model. CY25 PAT down 61%YoY due to PPA revisions in addition to lower utilization level. On a sequential basis, EPQL posted a LAT of PKR 15Mn (LPS of PKR 0.05) as a lower topline has wiped out the earnings during the quarter. Lastly, the Company announced a final cash dividend of PKR 1.25 for the quarter, taking the total payout to PKR 11.75 for the year.
MCB Bank Limited (MCB): 4QCY25 EPS clocked in at PKR11.9 – By Insight Research

Feb 4 2026


Insight Securities


  • MCB has announced its 4QCY25 result, wherein it has posted MCB (PKRmn) 4QCY25 4QCY24 3QCY25 YoY QoQ CY25 CY24 YoY consolidated PAT of PKR30.2bn (EPS: PKR11.9) vs. PAT of PKR27.2bn (EPS: PKR8.9) in SPLY. The result came inline with our expectations.
  • Net interest income recorded an increase of 4% YoY, while it remained flat on QoQ basis.
Pakistan Cement: South exports amplified industry utilization – By Foundation Research

Feb 4 2026


Foundation Securities


  • Cement sector dispatches rose by 12.4% YoY in Jan’26 to 4.5Mn tons, resulting in enhanced capacity utilization of 60.7% vs. 55.6% in the SPLY. Despite peak winter season, local sales continued their growth momentum exhibiting a jump of 4.2% YoY to 3.6Mn tons, portraying demand recovery trend amid improved macros. Similarly, exports spiked to 0.9Mn tons with a remarkable growth of 61.1% YoY. Resurgence in exports were on account of low base effect from South exports, even in the absence of North exports due to Afghan border closure and also compensating for weakness in domestic demand in the South region.
  • Seasonality witnessed on a MoM bases where local demand fell by 3.4% given fewer day light hours, fog etc. This decline was driven by North sales exhibiting a decline of 6.5% MoM which was compensated by uptick in South sales of 13.8% MoM. However, exports in North region were significantly impacted owing to Afghan border closure. Increase in both local dispatches and exports of South region MoM resulted in overall industry dispatches reaching 4.5Mn tons, maintaining growth of 4.4% MoM.
Interloop Limited (ILP): Earnings Beat Expectations on Higher Other Income – By IIS Research

Feb 4 2026


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • ILP reported an unconsolidated EPS of PKR 2.47 for 2QFY26, up 3x YoY and 24% QoQ, materially above our expectation of PKR 1.9. The earnings surprise was largely driven by higher than expected other income, which we believe likely stems from derivative financial instruments, similar to last quarter, where other income of PKR 700mn was primarily attributable to FX derivative gains on forward dollar bookings. However, detailed account is awaited. The results were accompanied by a cash dividend of PKR 2.00 per share, which was above consensus expectations and likely reflects an improved cash position.
  • Net sales clocked in at PKR 43.6bn, up 3% YoY but flat QoQ. Cost discipline remained evident as cost of sales declined 2% YoY, leading to an improvement in gross margins to 24% versus 23% in the previous quarter and 20% in 2QFY25. This margin expansion reflects better pricing, product mix, and input cost management.
Interloop Limited (ILP): Strong Earnings Beat and Enhanced Shareholder Returns – By HMFS Research

Feb 4 2026


HMFS Research


  • Interloop Limited reported earnings well above HMFS expectations of PKR 1.9/share, delivering an EPS of PKR 2.47, marking an impressive 201% year-on-year growth. The company also declared a dividend of PKR 2/share, reinforcing shareholder value.
  • Revenue increased modestly by 3%, while gross profit expanded by 22%, supported by stable cost of sales. Operating and selling expenses declined, further strengthening operational efficiency.
Pakistan Cement: Jan’26 dispatches up 4%MoM – By Taurus Research

Feb 4 2026


Taurus Securities


  • Total cement dispatches in Jan’26 went up 4%MoM to 4.54Mn tons i.e. domestic sales down 3%MoM while exports were up significantly by 51%MoM. Decrease in domestic sales was at tributed to lower construction demand amid winter effect, also a resultant effect of higher construction material cost, duties and taxes—cement manufacturers have requested the Government to give concessions on duties and taxes by framing an industry-friendly policy in order to support construction activities, making cement viable domestically as well as for exports. Further, North players are concerned as exports were Nil for the third consecutive month due to the border closure with Afghanistan, searching for alternative destinations like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh via the Sea route.
Oil Marketing Companies: Jan’26 Volumes up 10%YoY and 12%MoM – By Taurus Research

Feb 4 2026


Taurus Securities


  • Petroleum products off-take for Jan’26 stood at ~1.5Mn tons, reflecting an increase of 12%MoM and 10%YoY respectively. MS volumes increased 2%MoM and 3%YoY. Meanwhile, HSD volumes increased by 20%MoM and 11%YoY, respectively. During 7MFY26, industry volumes were up 3%YoY with MS and HSD up 3%YoY and 4%YoY, respectively.
  • Industry sources report a combination of factors that the MoM increase was a result of, particularly economic recovery and ease in inflation. Moreover, it was noted that fuel prices experienced a 20% annual drop in 2025 amid lower cost of supply—driving demand, along with higher passenger car sales supporting demand as well.
Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Feb 4 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The benchmark KSE-100 Index continued its upward momentum, surging to an intraday high of 188,312 before settling at a new all-time high of 187,832, registering a gain of 931 points (0.50%). Gains were driven by broad-based buying, led by Commercial Banks with selective strength in Power Generation & Distribution.
  • On the macro front, Pakistan and Kazakhstan signed 36 agreements and MoUs across multiple sectors, including petroleum, mining, and maritime affairs, with the Prime Minister reiterating the $1bn bilateral trade target. In terms of index contribution, MEBL, ENGROH, NBP, UBL, & HMB, emerged as key drivers, collectively adding 739.61 to the benchmark. On the volumes front, KEL led activity with 590.87 million shares; while overall market turnover stood at 1,193.66 million shares, reflecting healthy participation.
Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Feb 3 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) KSE-100 Index extended its upward momentum, hitting an intraday high of 187,519 before closing at 186,901, up 1,843 points (+1.00%). The rally was driven by broad-based buying in Commercial Banks, Fertilizer, Technology, Pharmaceuticals, and Textile composite sectors. Sentiment was further supported by strengthened trade and investment cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, Moreover, hopes of a de-escalation in US-Iran tensions. In terms of index contribution FFC, UBL, ENGROH, MEBL, and SYS collectively added 734.81 points. On the volume front, KEL led trading with 99.51 million shares, while total market turnover stood at 846.50 million shares.
Interloop Limited (ILP): Result Preview 2QFY26 – By AHCML Research

Feb 3 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • Interloop Ltd (ILP) is scheduled to announce its financial results for 2QFY26 on February 4, 2026. Interloop Ltd (ILP) reports robust 2QFY26 results with PAT surging 124% YoY to PKR2,580mn, driven by strong sales growth, improved gross margins, and a significant reduction in finance costs. However, PAT declined 7.8% QoQ due to gross margin compression from lower international textile prices and adverse currency movements, which outweighed a sequential sales increase and led to declines in operating and pre-tax profit.
  • We reiterate our Buy recommendation with Target Price of PKR115 per share, reflecting confidence in the company's continued execution and growth prospects.
Lucky Cement Limited (LUCK): Analyst Briefing 2QFY26 Highlights – By AHCML Research

Feb 3 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • LUCK has held an analyst briefing yesterday to discuss its financial results and future outlook. Below are the key takeaways from the briefing.
  • Pakistan cement domestic demand grew 12.5% YoY in 1HFY26 and Lucky Cement 1HFY26 sales increased to 3.36mn tons vs. 2.98mn tons in 1HFY25.
  • Approximately 56 - 57% of Lucky Cement’s energy mix comes from renewables, comprising 89.3 MW of solar capacity (including a planned 15 MW addition by Mar’26) and 28.8 MW of wind power. The remaining renewable contribution is generated through WHR systems.
Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Feb 2 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) benchmark KSE-100 Index extended its upward momentum, touching an intraday high of 185,612 before closing at 185,058, up 883 points (+0.48%). The rally was driven by broad-based buying, led by Commercial Banks, Oil & Gas Exploration, Automobiles, Technology, and Power Generation stocks.
  • Sentiment was further supported by the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the World Bank’s role in advancing Pakistan’s economic development, along with Wafi Energy’s plan to invest up to US$100 million in Pakistan over the next 2–3 years. In terms of index contribution, UBL, ENGROH, SYS, FATIMA, and SAZEW collectively added 893.66 points. On the volume front, FNEL led trading with 191.18 million shares, while total market turnover stood at 737.64 million shares.
Morning News: Govt, Standard Chartered Bank hold virtual roadshow to woo investors – By AHCML Research

Jan 30 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The virtual investor roadshow arranged by Standard Chartered Bank, in collaboration with the Debt Management Office, Ministry of Finance and Revenue, marked a historic and unprecedented level of engagement with Pakistan’s investment narrative, said Advisor to the Federal Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad.
  • High-lighting the government’s long-term vision, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said that under the “URAAN Pakistan” initiative, the national target has been set to transform Pakistan into a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2035. The Minister expressed these views while chairing the mid-year review meeting of the Annual Plan 2025–26.
Pakistan Economy: MPC Jan’26 - 50 bps Cut to Signal Pro-Growth Shift – By AHCML Research

Jan 23 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The State Bank of Pakistan is projected to cut its policy rate by 50 bps to 10.0% in its January 2026 meeting. This move is primarily driven by a sustained ease in inflation, a marked improvement in external buffers, continued stability in the currency, and a market-led decline in government bond yields, which together create a compelling case for further monetary easing.
  • Headline CPI inflation for Dec’25 stood at 5.6% YoY, maintaining its position within the SBP’s 5-7% medium-term target for the sixth consecutive month. More importantly, the CPI contracted by 0.4%MoM, signaling strengthening near-term disinflationary momentum.
Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Jan 22 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The KSE-100 Index experienced a volatile session, hitting an intraday high of 188,106.82 before closing at 187,688.16, up 655 points (0.35%) as profit-taking persisted. Gains for the day were led by the Energy, ENGROH, Cement and Fertilizer sector. In a key development, foreign assistance to Pakistan during 1HFY26 increased 20% YoY to USD 4.51bn.
  • Data from the Economic Affairs Division shows bilateral loans and grants at USD 1.07bn, while multilateral disbursements reached USD 1.97bn during Jul–Dec FY26. On the corporate front, Nestlé reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Pakistan, announcing an additional USD 60mn investment as part of its planned expansion of local operations. In terms of index contribution, ENGROH, HUBC, EFERT, ATRL and AICL, emerged as key drivers, collectively adding 606.46 to the benchmark. KEL led trading with 195.89 million shares, as total market turnover reached 1,066.28mn shares.
Pakistan Market Wrap: Evening Chronicle – By AHCML Research

Jan 21 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • The benchmark KSE-100 Index experienced a volatile session, hitting an intraday high of 189,523 before closing at 187,033, down 1,589 points (-0.84%) amid profit-taking. Selling pressure was observed across key sectors, particularly Cement, Commercial Banks, Technology & IT Services, and OMCs, Sentiment was further weighed down after the NA approved a bill restricting public access to lawmakers’ asset declarations, while foreign investors’ profit repatriation rose 27% in 1HFY26.
  • Among major laggards, MEBL, ENGROH, MCB, HBL, and SYS collectively shaved 792.87 points off the index. On the volume front, KEL led trading activity with 263.24 million shares, while total market turnover stood at 1,322.41 mn shares.
Pakistan Fertilizers: Seasonal Demand & Discounts Lifts Fertilizer Volumes in Dec’25 – By AHCML Research

Jan 16 2026


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • According to the latest NFDC data, total fertilizer off-take in Dec’25 stood at 1,752k tons, marking an increase of 35% MoM and 30% YoY. On a cumulative basis, CY25 fertilizer off-take reached 10.0mn tons, up 1% YoY, indicating a marginal recovery compared to last year. The YoY improvement in urea off-take was largely driven by aggressive discounts offered by manufacturers aimed at clearing elevated inventory levels, which supported volumes and lifted overall off-take closer to last year’s levels.
  • Urea off-take rebounded sharply in Dec’25, rising 65.5%MoM and 36.8%YoY to 1,356k tons. This lifted cumulative CY25 urea sales to 6.73mn tons, reflecting a modest 2%YoY increase. The strong December recovery highlights resilient demand, despite persistently weak farm economics stemming from the withdrawal of support prices and elevated input costs in recent months.