The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) in Karachi experienced a downturn at the start of the week, closing at 165,966 points, a decrease of 453 points or 0.27 percent. This decline is attributed to ongoing regional and political instability, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and a general lack of positive economic news. Investor caution was further fueled by high international oil prices, contributing to limited market recovery efforts. Several major stocks, including United Bank, Engro Holdings, and Hub Power, significantly impacted the index negatively. Despite a slight increase in turnover to Rs19.5bn, trading volume remained low at 370 million shares, with Pakistan Refinery leading in volume. Engro Fertiliser reported strong profits and increased dividends, but analysts predict continued market volatility and a range-bound trading pattern.