KATI president calls on youth to invest with confidence as PSX gains momentum

BY SARFARAZ ALI

KARACHI: As the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continues its phenomenal upward momentum towards the end of December 2025, President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Muhammad Ikram Rajput, has urged young people to actively participate in the share market, calling it a positive indicator of the country’s improving economic outlook. Speaking in an exclusive interview with PSMU news- paper, Rajput said the strong perfor- mance of the stock exchange reflects growing economic stability and re- newed investor confidence.

“The stock market is moving strongly to- wards improvement, which clearly shows that our country’s economic position is be- coming more stable and positive,” he said. “This is a very encouraging sign, and I hope this growth continues so that our economy moves upward and the nation progresses.” Emphasizing the importance of exports for sustainable economic development, the KATI president said export-led growth remains the backbone of a strong economy.

“For the development of the country, ex- ports are the most important factor. When exports increase, economic growth and stability naturally follow,” Rajput said, urging the government to provide relief in taxes and other related matters. “Just as steps are taken to control gas and electricity prices, the in- terest rate should also be brought down to single digits. This will significantly boost ex- ports and help drive long-term economic de- velopment.” Rajput also highlighted the vital role of chambers of commerce in bridging the gap between the business community and the government.
“The role of the Chamber is to serve as a bridge between businesses and the govern- ment. Our responsibility remains the same to convey the concerns of the industrial sector and work towards their resolution,” he said, adding that issues such as law and order con- tinue to pose challenges for industrialists and must be addressed on priority.

Referring to recent security developments,
the KATI president expressed gratitude that Karachi was saved from a major tragedy.
“Allah Almighty has protected Karachi from a serious incident, and no amount of grati- tude is enough,” he said while appreciating the timely action of the Sindh Police and pay- ing tribute to the Inspector General Sindh, Additional IG, and the entire police force, along with other law enforcement agencies. “Had this incident occurred, it could have caused heavy losses and pushed our economy in a negative direction.” While maintain- ing a balanced stance, Rajput ac- knowledged the development initia- tives of the Sindh Government.

“We have criticized the government where necessary, but constructive development work should also be appreciated,” he said. He particularly praised infrastructure projects in Korangi, including the underpass, Shaheed Bhutto Expressway (Shahrah-e-Bhutto), and upcoming road projects. He also welcomed public transport initiatives such as the Green Line and the introduction of modern buses, including double-decker buses.

“In the past, we admired cities like London for their transport systems. By the grace of Allah, Karachi is now moving in that direc- tion,” he said, adding that positive progress is also visible in healthcare, education, and institutions like NICVD.
Encouraging public participation in the stock market, Rajput said investing in shares has become more accessible than ever.

“People should actively participate in the stock exchange, buy shares, and invest,” he said, referring to a recent initiative by re- nowned businessman Arif Habib, which al- lows individuals to start investing with very small amounts. “This is a very positive step and should be encouraged.”
Praising Habib’s credibility, Rajput said the initiative has received an encouraging re- sponse. “InshaAllah, the PSX index will con- tinue to rise further, and we will witness even stronger growth in the near future.”