KSE-100 index advances on easing Gulf situation, optimism about loan refinancingPakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) posted strong gains on Wednesday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index reclaiming the 180,000 level amid broad-based buying supported by global cues and optimism about Pakistan's external financing outlook. The KSE-100 settled at 180,014.93, higher by 2,931.71 points, or 1.66%, compared to the previous close at 177,083.22. The prospect of reduced tensions weighed on international oil prices and lifted equity markets across Asia, encouraging investors to increase their exposure to equities. Cumulatively, trading volumes increased to 740.6 million shares against Tuesday's tally of 711.3 million. Trust Brokerage was the volume leader with trading in 52.9 million shares, falling Rs0.13 to close at Rs2.46.