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Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu assumes charge as SECP chairman

January 28, 2026 2:54

Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu has formally assumed charge as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the commission said on Wednesday. Before joining SECP, Dr Sidhu served as Chairman of the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP). He tendered his resignation from the post, which was accepted by the federal cabinet on January 27. After assuming office, Dr Sidhu said his priority would be to build a fair, transparent, and inclusive financial market capable of channeling savings into productive investment, supporting innovation, and promoting sustainable economic growth. He said SECP would focus on reducing the cost of doing business by simplifying regulations, streamlining procedures, and accelerating digital transformation across the corporate and financial regulatory framework. READ MORE: Muhammad Ali Farid made SECP commissioner Highlighting capital markets as a key driver of economic growth, Dr Sidhu said efforts would be made to broaden the investor base, encourage new listings, and introduce diversified financial products. These include derivatives, real estate investment trusts (REITs), green bonds, and fractional investment options, supported by an enabling legal and regulatory framework to enhance market depth, liquidity, and investor confidence. Revival and expansion of the Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) sector will be a major focus area. Dr Sidhu said leasing companies, digital lenders, mortgage and housing finance firms, and peer-to-peer platforms have an important role in improving credit access for SMEs, first-time borrowers, and underserved segments. SECP will work towards creating a more supportive regulatory environment for the sector. READ MORE: SECP registers three new REIT schemes in January 2026 The insurance sector will also receive priority attention. Dr Sidhu said SECP aims to increase insurance penetration through digital micro-insurance, Takaful, parametric climate insurance, and improved transparency in policy offerings and claims management, with a focus on consumer protection and coverage for the informal sector. He further said SECP will advance its digital transformation under the LEAP project, with full digitization of the licensing regime and introduction of a smart compliance system to reduce regulatory burden, lower compliance costs, and shorten processing times. According to the commission, these measures are aimed at improving regulatory efficiency and strengthening Pakistan’s investment climate. [...]

Rupee records gain against US dollar

January 28, 2026 2:11

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"13-Jan-26", "14-Jan-26", "15-Jan-26", "16-Jan-26", "19-Jan-26", "20-Jan-26", "21-Jan-26", "22-Jan-26", "23-Jan-26", "26-Jan-26", "27-Jan-26", "28-Jan-26" ], datasets: [{ label: 'Closing Rates', data: [ 279.77, 279.87, 279.82, 279.97, 280.07, 279.95, 279.97, 280.05, 280.21, 280.17, 280.27, 280.21, 280.22, 280.26, 280.37, 280.42, 280.26, 280.22, 280.16, 280.56, 280.47, 280.57, 280.73, 280.78, 280.56, 280.47, 280.60, 280.57, 280.46, 280.62, 280.72, 280.87, 280.77, 280.97, 281.07, 280.97, 281.07, 281.02, 280.97, 281.06, 281.22, 281.37, 281.47, 281.52, 281.71, 281.57, 281.67, 281.72, 281.61, 281.66, 281.77, 281.92, 281.97, 282.06, 281.97, 282.06, 282.17, 282.07, 282.02, 281.97, 282.12, 282.22, 282.17, 282.21, 282.47, 282.67, 282.96, 283.17, 283.41, 283.55, 283.64, 283.70, 283.87, 283.77, 283.72, 283.67, 283.72, 283.76, 283.95, 283.86, 283.97, 284.22, 284.36, 284.47, 284.56, 284.46, 284.72, 284.67, 284.96, 284.97, 284.87, 284.95, 284.97, 284.76, 284.22, 283.45, 283.21, 283.05, 282.95, 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279.86, 279.85, 279.82, 279.81 ], borderColor: 'black', borderWidth: 1, fill: false, pointRadius: 3 }] }, options: { responsive: true, plugins: { legend: { display: false } }, scales: { x: { title: { display: true, text: 'Date' } }, y: { title: { display: true, text: 'Closing Rate' } } } } }); The Pakistani rupee registered marginal improvement against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Wednesday. At close, the local currency settled at 279.81, a gain of Re0.01 against the greenback. On Tuesday, the local unit closed at 279.82. Internationally, the US dollar was grappling with a “crisis of confidence” as it struggled near four-year lows on Wednesday after President Donald Trump brushed off its recent weakness, exacerbating the dollar selling and lifting the yen, euro and sterling. The euro breached past the $1.2 level for the first time since 2021 and was at $1.2015, a tad weaker on the day, while sterling was also near its highest level since 2021 at $1.3823 in early Asian hours. The dollar index, which measures the US currency against six major rivals, was at 95.964 after dropping over 1% in the previous session when it hit a four-year low of 95.566. Trump said on Tuesday the value of the dollar was “great”, when asked whether he thought it had declined too much. Traders took his comments as a signal to sell the greenback aggressively. Trump’s comments were not exactly new, but they came at a time when the dollar had been under pressure as traders braced for a possible coordinated currency intervention by US and Japanese authorities to stabilise the yen. The dollar tumbled over 9% in 2025 and has started the year on the back foot, already down about 2.3% in January as Trump’s erratic approach to trade and international diplomacy, fears over the Federal Reserve’s independence, and huge increases in public spending rattled investors. Oil prices, a key indicator of currency parity, hit their highest since late September on ‌Wednesday after a winter storm disrupted US crude output while a weak US dollar and continued Kazakh outages lent further support. At 1302 GMT, Brent crude futures ticked up 38 cents, or 0.6%, at $67.95 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude was up 37 cents, or 0.6%, at $62.76. Both grades are headed for their biggest monthly rises in percentage ‌terms since July 2023, with Brent set to rise around 12% and WTI around 10%. Inter-bank market rates for dollar on Wednesday BID Rs 279.81 OFFER Rs 280.01 Open-market movement In the open market, the PKR gained 5 paise for buying and 2 paise for selling against USD, closing at 280.23 and 280.88, respectively. Against Euro, the PKR lost 2.74 rupees for buying and 2.93 rupees for selling, closing at 335.26 and 338.52, respectively. Against UAE Dirham, the PKR gained 5 paise for buying and lost 1 paisa for selling, closing at 76.50 and 77.31, respectively. Against Saudi Riyal, the PKR gained 1 paisa for both buying and selling, closing at 74.81 and 75.42, respectively. Open-market rates for dollar on Wednesday BID Rs 280.23 OFFER Rs 280.88 [...]

Copper and aluminium climb as weak dollar extends metals rally

January 28, 2026 1:35

LONDON: Copper moved higher on Wednesday while aluminium and zinc notched multi-year highs after the U.S. dollar slid to a four-year low and investors continued to pile in with bullish bets on industrial metals. Benchmark three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange was up 0.6% at $13,087 a metric ton in official open-outcry trading. Aluminium added 1.7% to $3,261, touching its highest since April 2022 and zinc was up 1.2% at $3,392 after striking its highest since January 2023. The dollar index hit its lowest since February 2022 on Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump said the value of the greenback was “great”. A weaker U.S. currency makes dollar-denominated metals more affordable for those holding other currencies and can boost demand. Analysts at brokerage Sucden Financial said on a webinar on Wednesday that the rally in base metals was being driven by macro positioning rather than metals-specific fundamentals. Copper climbs, tin under pressure from China position limits “What we’ve been seeing with the specs (speculative investors) in gold and silver, they’re all piling into the base metals, too,” Sucden’s Robert Montefusco said. The cash LME copper contract was trading at a $90 a ton discount to the three-month forward, suggesting little need for near-term metal, while the Yangshan premium, a measure of appetite for copper imports in top metals consumer China, sank to an 18-month low of $20 a ton. Sucden’s head of research, Daria Efanova, said Chinese producers were offloading copper onto the LME to de-risk ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday in February, when liquidity is likely to be thin and the market could become even more volatile. Aluminium’s jump came after Goldman Sachs raised its first-half average price forecast to $3,150 a ton, from $2,575, citing low inventories, doubts over power availability for new smelters in Indonesia and robust global demand growth from electric vehicle producers and power grids. Elsewhere, lead edged up 0.1% to $2,022 a ton, nickel gained 1.3% to $18,400 and tin climbed 2.5% to $56,250 after touching a record $58,340 on Tuesday. [...]

Most Gulf bourses gain on earnings, oil

January 28, 2026 1:28

Most Gulf stock markets closed higher on Wednesday as investors focused on corporate earnings and firmer oil prices, while the Egyptian stock exchange snapped a nine-day winning streak. Saudi Arabia’s benchmark index gained 0.7%, with oil major Saudi Aramco up 1.5%, while Alinma Bank advanced 3.2% following a sharp rise in annual net profit. In a separate bourse filing, the bank also proposed a capital increase through bonus shares, granting one bonus share for every five shares held. Crude prices - a catalyst for the Gulf’s financial markets - hit their highest level since late September on Wednesday after a winter storm disrupted U.S. crude output while a weak U.S. dollar and continued Kazakh outages lent further support. Aramco-led energy stocks lifted the market, though gains were limited by caution ahead of today’s U.S. Federal Reserve meeting, with attention on Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks, the 2026 easing outlook, and Fed independence, said Joseph Dahrieh, Managing Director at Tickmill. “Nevertheless, the Saudi market appears poised for further gains, boosted by Q4 earnings, the potential opening of the market to foreign investors on February 1, and solid non-oil growth projections for the year.” Dubai’s main share index advanced 0.8%, with blue-chip developer Emaar Properties rising 2.3%. Among other gainers, Dubai Financial Market jumped 1.8%, as the bourse operator is slated to report its earnings later in the day. In Abu Dhabi, the index added 0.4%, with ADNOC Gas up 1.4%. The energy firm will invest more than $20 billion to increase its gas processing capacity by almost 30% by 2029, its CEO Fatema Al Nuaimi said on Tuesday. Elsewhere, the UAE’s largest lender First Abu Dhabi Bank closed 0.7% higher, following a 22% increase in fourth-quarter net profit. The Qatari index gained 0.8%, led by a 1.3% rise in petrochemical maker Industries Qatar . Mesaieed Petrochemical added 1.4% ahead of its earnings announcement. Outside the Gulf, Egypt’s blue-chip index eased 0.1%, ending a nine-day winning streak. Saudi Arabia rose 0.7% to 11,458Abu Dhabi added 0.4% to 10,394Dubai gained 0.8% to 6,514Qatar advanced 0.8% to 11,373Egypt eased 0.1% to 47,786Bahrain was up 0.1% to 2,052Oman leapt 1.4% to 6,361Kuwait lost 0.8% to 9,308 [...]

Sri Lankan shares end slightly up as real estate stocks rise

January 28, 2026 1:25

Sri Lankan shares closed marginally higher on Wednesday, as gains in real estate and health care sectors offset losses in IT stocks. The CSE All-Share index settled 0.13% higher at 23,992.11 points. Sri Lanka’s central bank kept its overnight policy rate unchanged, as it awaited the latest review of a $2.9-billion International Monetary Fund programme. Real estate stocks up 1.43%; IT stocks down 4.28% on the day Industrial Asphalts (Ceylon) and Greentech Energy were the top percentage gainers on the index, up 25% each. Trading volume on the index rose to 347.1 million shares from 272.5 million shares in the previous session. The equity market’s turnover rose to 6.94 billion Sri Lankan rupees ($22.42 million) from 5.21 billion rupees in the previous session, according to exchange data. Foreign investors were net sellers, offloading stocks worth 519.12 million rupees, while domestic investors were net buyers, purchasing shares worth 6.90 billion rupees, the data showed. [...]

India bonds rise as RBI moves up debt-buy plan; budget key

January 28, 2026 1:11

MUMBAI: Indian government bonds ended higher on Wednesday, recovering from two days of losses, after the central bank brought forward its debt purchases by a week, signalling to the market it wants to cap the recent climb in yields. The benchmark 10-year bond yield ended at 6.7026%, after logging its highest closing level in 11 months on Tuesday at 6.7194%. Bond yields move inversely to prices. Yields have risen sharply in recent weeks as traders are worried about hefty supply in the upcoming fiscal year. India’s budget, due on Sunday, will unveil New Delhi’s borrowing plan. The Reserve Bank of India has moved up its open market operations and will purchase 1 trillion rupees ($10.92 billion) in two tranches - on January 29 and February 5 - a week earlier than previously scheduled. Traders said the move could aid demand at the auction, but would not be a game-changer and any major reaction is likely only after the budget announcement. New Delhi will sell 320 billion rupees of the 6.48% 2035 bond on Friday. India bonds flash red ahead of 30 trillion Indian rupee debt wave “From a bond market standpoint, the net and gross borrowing numbers will be closely eyed to ascertain bond supply at a time when demand-supply imbalances are hurting sentiment,” ICICI Securities Primary Dealership said in a note. “Given fiscal consolidation is going to be quite modest in our baseline assumption, normally we would expect net borrowing numbers to rise in absolute terms.” Most analysts have pegged gross borrowing in the range of 16.5–17.5 trillion rupees, which would be a record for any fiscal year. Rates India’s overnight index swap rates eased, tracking bond yields, while focus is now on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decision later in the day. The one-year OIS rate ended at 5.575%, while the two-year closed at 5.73%. The five-year OIS rate settled at 6.1525%. [...]

Local manufacturers target 2mn 5G mobile handsets ahead of service launch

January 28, 2026 11:49

With local mobile phone assemblers/manufacturers targeting the availability of around 2 million 5G-enabled handsets by the time services are launched—and the government pushing for installment-based sales to improve affordability—officials said preparations were being fast-tracked to ensure a smooth rollout of 5G services in the country. As part of these efforts, local assemblers have already manufactured/assembled about 0.5 million 5G-enabled mobile handsets, reflecting early readiness on the device side ahead of the commercial launch. The government is pressing manufacturers to ensure that affordable 5G smartphones, with prices starting from around Rs30,000, are widely available to support mass adoption. According to officials, the spectrum auction is scheduled by the end of next month, while 5G services are expected to be launched within the next five months in major cities, followed by a phased expansion to other parts of the country. Read more: 5G rollout set for major cities by next year, says IT minister To align handset availability with network deployment, senior government officials, including representatives of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), held a meeting with the Mobile Device Manufacturers (MDM) Association, which represents around 35 mobile phone assemblers and manufacturers operating in Pakistan. The meeting was informed that five companies including Samsung, Vivo, OPPO are already assembling/manufacturing 5G enabled handsets while other companies are all set to initiate work in this regard. In the absence of 5G services, earlier there was no demand for 5G enabled handsets, however as the government has all set to initiate the services, work on such handsets were started and gaining momentum. By the time 5G services are launched in the country, there would be no dearth of 5G enabled handsets in the market, official sources added. During the meeting, the government assured the industry of full support in resolving regulatory and operational hurdles, including facilitation at the import stage and timely issuance of Certificates of Conformity (CoC). Also read: Will 5G actually improve internet access for ordinary Pakistanis? Officials emphasised that uninterrupted supply chains and regulatory certainty would be crucial to meeting handset targets ahead of the 5G launch. The government also formally proposed that manufacturers introduce installment-based purchase options to ease the financial burden on consumers amid tight economic conditions. Participants welcomed the proposal and assured the authorities that they would roll out locally assembled 5G handsets starting from Rs30,000, while ramping up production to meet expected demand. Officials stressed that ensuring the availability of affordable devices, alongside spectrum allocation and network preparedness, remains central to the success of Pakistan’s 5G rollout, adding that close coordination between regulators, operators and manufacturers will continue in the coming months. [...]

Palm ends higher on stronger soyoil and palm olein

January 28, 2026 11:47

JAKARTA: Malaysian palm oil futures closed higher for a third straight session on Wednesday, supported by firm Chicago soyoil and Dalian palm olein and soyoil futures, although a stronger ringgit capped further gains. The benchmark palm oil contract for April delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange gained 12 ringgit, or 0.28%, to 4,272 ringgit ($1,091.19) a metric ton at the close. “The futures continued to exhibit the broader uptrend, riding on the bullish waves of Chicago’s soyoil, Dalian’s palm olein, soyoil futures and upward momentum in energy prices,” said Anilkumar Bagani, commodity research head at a Mumbai-based brokerage Sunvin Group. Weaker production and healthy exports in January have also supported palm oil, keeping its bullish momentum intact, but a stronger ringgit has limited the gains, he added. Dalian’s most-active soyoil contract rose 1.44%, while its palm oil contract gained 1.49%. Soyoil prices on the Chicago Board of Trade were up 0.2%. Palm oil tracks price movements of rival edible oils, as it competes for a share of the global vegetable oils market. The ringgit, palm’s currency of trade, strengthened 0.89% against the dollar, making the commodity more expensive for buyers holding foreign currencies. Oil prices gained further ground on Wednesday as supply concerns lingered after a winter storm disrupted U.S. crude output and exports, while Middle East tensions lent additional support. Stronger crude oil futures make palm a more attractive option for biodiesel feedstock. Meanwhile, cargo surveyor Intertek Testing Services said Malaysian palm oil product exports for January 1-25 increased 9.97% from a month earlier, while independent inspection company AmSpec Agri Malaysia pegged the rise at 7.97%. [...]

Indian rupee lags Asian peers as NDF maturities, month-end dollar bids pinch

January 28, 2026 11:41

MUMBAI: The Indian rupee closed marginally weaker on Wednesday, lagging Asian peers, on dollar demand linked to maturing non-deliverable forwards positions and month-end importer demand, while positive cues from a broad-based decline in the greenback capped losses. The Indian rupee ended at 91.7825 per dollar, 0.1% down from its close at 91.72 in the previous session. The currency has weakened about 2% so far this month, making it the worst performer among its Asian currencies, as investors continue to fret over persistent foreign portfolio outflows from equities. Outflows have already touched $4 billion in January. INR “continues to be very flow-dependent and is showing little sensitivity to global cues,” a foreign bank trader said. Unless the underlying flows across hedging activity and investments turn supportive, staggered depreciation will likely persist, the trader added. On the day, intermittent dollar sales from state-run banks and likely central bank presence in the non-deliverable forwards market helped limit the currency’s losses, according to traders. Most Asian currencies, meanwhile, were up between 0.1% and 0.9% while the dollar index struggled to meaningfully bounce back from a four-year low hit in the previous session after President Donald Trump brushed off its recent weakness. “The move looked to be driven by FX decision-makers – be the asset managers hedging U.S. risk or the speculative community (hedge funds and CTAs) adding to short-dollar positions on range breakouts,” analysts at ING said in a note. Global markets will now hone in on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decision, due later in the day. While there is no change expected in benchmark borrowing costs, the focus will be on commentary from Fed Chair Powell regarding the future interest rate trajectory and the ongoing challenges to the independence of the U.S. central bank. [...]

Indian shares rise on EU deal; defence, infrastructure stocks gain ahead of budget

January 28, 2026 11:37

BENGALURU: India’s equity benchmarks rose on Wednesday, extending gains from the previous day’s landmark trade deal with the European Union, while capital expenditure-linked stocks jumped ahead of the federal budget. The Nifty 50 rose 0.66% to 25,342.75, while the BSE Sensex added 0.6% to 82,344.68. The benchmark indexes have risen about 1% in two sessions. The EU trade deal signed on Tuesday scrapped all tariffs on more than 90% of Indian goods. “This deal opens a high-value consumer market for Indian exporters while positioning India as Europe’s most reliable long-term growth partner…. (It also) reshapes capital flows (and) strengthens investor confidence,” said Amit Jain, co-founder of Ashika Global Family Office Services. Thirteen of the 16 major sectors logged gains. Energy and metal stocks led the rise with a 4.2% and 2.3% gain, respectively, on higher crude oil and base metal prices. Broader mid-caps and small-caps rose 1.7% and 2.3%, respectively. “Sectors that are expected to be in focus in the budget, like railways and defence, have done well today. Apart from that, buying is seen in mid-cap and small-cap companies that have reported strong earnings for the December quarter,” said Sunny Agrawal, head of fundamental equity research at SBICAPS Securities. Defence index soared 7%, while public sector enterprises and infrastructure stocks rose 4.6% and 1.1%, respectively. Investors await the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy decision later in the day, where it is widely expected to keep rates unchanged. Bharat Electronics soared 8.9% to a record on higher profit. Asian Paints dropped 4.2% on subdued volume growth in the December quarter, while Mahindra Logistics and Motilal Oswal Financial Services jumped 15% and 7.5%, respectively, on upbeat earnings. [...]

India bonds flash red ahead of 30 trillion Indian rupee debt wave

January 28, 2026 11:28

MUMBAI: Indian fixed-income yields have shot up across segments as investors fret that an estimated record 30 trillion Indian rupee ($327 billion) of government bond supply next fiscal could complicate the central bank’s task of managing a falling Indian rupee and rising rates. The borrowing estimate by 20 economists, a more than 10% annual increase, includes federal and state governments. The federal debt plan will be announced in the budget on Sunday, while details for states will emerge over a period of time. Market rates have remained elevated despite unprecedented measures by the Reserve Bank of India, such as record bond purchases and forex swaps to inject liquidity. Meanwhile, demand is flagging due to weak deposit growth, liquidity scarcity caused by the RBI’s FX market intervention, and changes in accounting of banks’ trading books, according to six bank treasury officials and economists. “There are some structural problems in the market,” said A. Prasanna, chief economist at ICICI Securities Primary Dealership in Chennai. Banks are replacing government bonds sold to the RBI with higher-yielding state debt, as investment guidelines curtail appetite, while insurers and pension funds have also slowed purchases, Prasanna noted. India’s central bank advances 1 trillion Indian rupee bond purchases India’s benchmark 10-year bond yield has risen by a quarter of a percentage point since December to an 11-month high of 6.72%, while overnight money market rates have stayed above the RBI’s key policy rate of 5.25%. The LSEG benchmark rate for one-year bank borrowing through certificates of deposit has jumped 65 basis points over two months to around 7.20%. Bank demand set to slow Lagging deposit growth is likely to keep a lid on the market, economists say. Banks are the largest buyers of government bonds. The recent increase in bond supply on a net basis is running higher than deposit growth, Vivek Kumar, an economist at QuantEco Research, said. “This means the incentive of banks to buy more bonds is lower. Also, the non-banking source of demand has been very weak.” Kumar points out that the term premium in the bond market has been unusually high, at its widest in three years. Term premium is the additional return investors demand for taking on greater risk or lending for the longer term. RBI’s dual role hurdle Market rates have remained high despite the RBI’s 9.56 trillion Indian rupee liquidity infusion in this financial year, which includes a record 5.7 trillion Indian rupee of bond purchases. Traders say this is because the central bank is simultaneously intervening in the Indian rupee and bond markets. “On one hand, the RBI is infusing money through OMOs and FX swaps, but on the other hand, there is large-scale intervention in the foreign exchange market that is draining cash conditions,” a treasury head at a private bank said. The treasury officials did not want to be identified as they are not authorised to speak to the media. The RBI has stepped up spot forex market intervention to help the Indian rupee, which has been plumbing record lows on foreign outflows amid prolonged trade talks with the United States. Dollar sales by the RBI withdraw Indian rupee liquidity. “We believe pressure on the Indian rupee, sustained pressure on durable liquidity, higher credit-to-deposit ratios, higher issuance of state bonds and expectations of record borrowing have soured sentiment,” said Parijat Agrawal, head of fixed income at Union Asset Management. [...]

500,000 tons of Passco wheat set for disposal, ECC aims to curb storage costs

January 28, 2026 9:39

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet on Wednesday approved the disposal of 500,000 metric tons of Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation Limited (Passco) wheat through competitive bidding, aiming to manage surplus stocks, reduce storage costs, and stabilise domestic wheat prices. Moreover, the committee also approved the provision of 300,000 metric tons of Passco wheat to the Food and Consumer Protection Department of the Government of Punjab, aimed at maintaining adequate wheat supplies for flour mills, stabilising prices and ensuring uninterrupted availability of wheat flour to consumers, read a statement. The ECC met today at the Finance Division under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb to consider a range of important economic, fiscal and sectoral matters. Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, along with federal secretaries and senior officials from the concerned ministries, divisions and regulatory bodies attended the meeting. During the meeting, the ECC approved a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) amounting to Rs29.663 billion for the Federal Directorate of Immunization under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination to ensure uninterrupted procurement of vaccines and syringes under the Expanded Programme on Immunization. The approval aims to sustain routine immunisation coverage across the country, prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, and meet Pakistan’s international commitments in public health. The ECC further approved the sharing of subsidy on imported urea at a 50:50 basis between the federal and provincial governments through a TSG of Rs23.42 billion requested by the Ministry of Commerce. Of this amount, Rs15 billion will be released by the Finance Division, while the remaining amount will be arranged subject to fiscal space. In the housing and development sector, the ECC approved a TSG of Rs1.9 billion in favour of the Ministry of Housing and Works for meeting capital outlay under the Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Programme for execution of development schemes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company Limited, aimed at accelerating infrastructure development and improving service delivery. The ECC also approved a TSG of Rs150 million in favour of Cadet College Hasan Abdal under the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training to meet operational and developmental requirements and ensure the smooth functioning of the institution. Finally, the ECC approved the distribution of confiscated solar panels by the Federal Board of Revenue to the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, along with the associated transportation and distribution plan, to help address electricity shortages in the region, promote renewable energy solutions, and support public service facilities through sustainable power generation. [...]

Symmetry Group eyes revenue boost after 3-year contract with Jazz

January 28, 2026 8:21

Symmetry Group, a digital technology company based in Pakistan, announced that its subsidiary, Iris Digital (Private) Limited, has been selected as the preferred bidder for Jazz’s digital and creative mandates, following completion of commercial and technical evaluations. The company disclosed the development in its notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday. “Jazz has formally communicated this selection in writing, and the definitive agreements will be executed in due course,” read the notice. The company said that the appointment is for a period of three years, covering 2026, 2027, and 2028. “Management views this development as a milestone achievement and a strong endorsement of the Group’s capabilities across integrated digital, creative, and technology-led marketing services. “Given the substantially expanded scope of work compared to previous years, the company has initiated capacity expansion across Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad,” it said, adding that the expanded mandate would significantly increase the company’s revenues. Symmetry is a digital technology and experiences company that specialises in digital products and services. Back in 2024, the company announced that it would establish its subsidiary in the UAE. “This subsidiary will pave the way for global launch and scaling of the intellectual properties (products), developed in-house,” it said back then. [...]

South Korean chip giant SK hynix reports record annual operating profit

January 28, 2026 8:15

SEOUL: South Korean chip giant SK hynix said Wednesday it had achieved record profits in 2025 on the back of a surge in global demand for technology powering artificial intelligence. The firm said in a press release that “2025 marked a year in which the company once again demonstrated its world-class technological leadership”. [...]

Dutch tech firm ASML says to cut around 1,700 jobs

January 28, 2026 8:11

THE HAGUE: Dutch tech giant ASML said Wednesday that it would lay off around 1,700 people, mainly in management positions, as it shakes up its internal organisation. “The feedback from our colleagues, our suppliers and our customers shows that our ways of working have, in some cases, become less agile,” said CEO Christophe Fouquet in a statement to staff announcing the changes. “As a result of these proposed changes, some roles – mainly at the leadership level – may no longer be required,” he said. “At this stage, we believe the proposed changes could ultimately result in a net reduction of around 1,700 positions.” [...]

Pakistan, China launch e-mining platform

January 28, 2026 5:28

Pakistan and China launched on Wednesday an e-mining platform aimed at improving information sharing, project connectivity, and cooperation between Pakistani authorities, Chinese enterprises, according to a statement from the Petroleum Division. The Pak–China Mineral Cooperation Forum was held today at the Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad, bringing together senior Pakistani leadership, diplomatic representatives, Chinese enterprises, and industry stakeholders to strengthen bilateral cooperation in Pakistan’s mineral sector and explore new avenues for sustainable development and investment. Organised by the China Chamber of Commerce in Pakistan (CCCPK), the forum served as a platform for policy dialogue, investment facilitation, technological collaboration, and business matchmaking across the entire mineral value chain, including exploration, mining, processing, logistics, financing, and capacity building. “A major milestone of the forum was the launch of the ‘Pak–China E-Mining Platform’, a digital initiative aimed at improving information sharing, project connectivity, and cooperation between Pakistani authorities and Chinese enterprises,” the Petroleum Division said. The platform is expected to enhance transparency, efficiency, and collaboration in mineral sector development. The forum also witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), reflecting growing confidence and commitment toward bilateral industrial and mineral cooperation. Also read: Pakistan, Australia agree to boost cooperation in mining, gemstones sectors Among these was a MoU titled ‘A Framework for Cooperation to Explore Opportunities in Digital Cross-Border Industrial Trade’, signed between Wah Nobel (Pvt) Limited and MCCT International, as well as between JW Corporation and MCCT International. In addition, an MoU for cooperation in Pakistan’s mineral sector was signed among the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC), POWERCHINA International, and Pak China Investment Company Limited, focusing on investment facilitation, technical cooperation, and joint development initiatives. The second session of the forum focused on policy frameworks and sectoral briefings, featuring presentations by federal and provincial representatives on mining policies, regulatory incentives, and mineral resource potential across Pakistan. Technical presentations by Chinese institutions and enterprises highlighted geological cooperation and key mining projects, outlining future collaboration opportunities. The Pak–China Mineral Cooperation Forum reaffirmed the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, underscoring the shared commitment of both countries to deepening cooperation in the mineral sector through policy alignment, investment facilitation, technological innovation, and sustainable development. The forum was attended by 70+ Chinese companies, 100+ Pakistani companies, and over 800 participants, reflecting strong interest from both sides in deepening cooperation in the mineral sector, the Petroleum Division said. In his address on the occasion, Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, noted that cooperation under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had delivered “tangible outcomes across Pakistan’s economy, including major advancements in power generation, infrastructure development, and industrial connectivity”. “H.E. Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed China’s strong interest in investing in Pakistan’s mining sector and in supporting capacity building and technological advancement. “He emphasised China’s role as an active contributor to global economic development and highlighted the importance of sustainability and benchmark construction standards in mining projects, noting that these efforts have been acknowledged by Pakistan’s Ministry of Energy. “The ambassador stressed that consistent cooperation and technological innovation are essential to advance the sector, while responsible mining can enhance resource utilisation and foster harmonious relations with local communities,” the statement read. Also read: ‘Positive updates’ shared on Reko Diq financial close, says Petroleum ministry Iqbal also highlighted China’s focus on developing “small and beautiful projects,” including infrastructure, education, and healthcare initiatives, as part of broader development cooperation. Wang Huihua, the Chairman of China Chamber of Commerce in Pakistan (CCCPK) emphasised that the forum reflected the evolving phase of Pak–China economic cooperation, with mining and minerals emerging as a new pillar of engagement. He noted that CCCPK remained “committed to facilitating structured dialogue, promoting responsible investment, and strengthening linkages between Chinese and Pakistani enterprises to support long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships”. Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division), highlighted Pakistan’s policy direction toward “responsible and value-added mineral development”. He underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory frameworks, improve oversight, and encourage sustainable mining practices aligned with international standards, particularly in the context of rising global demand for critical minerals linked to the energy transition. Emphasising China’s global leadership in mining and minerals, particularly in rare earth elements, copper smelting, and refining, he underscored the relevance of China’s experience for Pakistan’s emerging mineral economy. He highlighted joint ventures such as the Saindak Copper-Gold Project, Duddar Lead-Zinc Project, and Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company, while noting growing collaboration in new copper-gold prospects. The minister affirmed the government’s commitment to policy stability, streamlined approvals, and federal–provincial coordination to position Pakistan as a reliable long-term partner in the global mineral supply chain, and formally invited Chinese companies to participate in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026. He also also highlighted partnership between the Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP) and the China Geological Survey, ongoing since 2010. “Under this collaboration, Pakistan successfully carried out nationwide geochemical sampling, providing a modern foundation to identify mineral potential zones and guide systematic exploration. “Building on this milestone, Pakistan is now advancing toward higher-resolution surveys and integrated geoscientific programmes to further unlock its mineral potential and support sustainable economic development.” Wang Jicheng, Chairman of MCC shared insights from Chinese mining operations in Pakistan, highlighting the role of technology transfer, workforce training, and adherence to best practices. He affirmed MCC’s long-term commitment to Pakistan’s mineral sector and its focus on expanding cooperation in exploration, mining, and downstream development while contributing to local employment and skills enhancement. Also read: Pakistan seeks US support to engage IMF, World Bank on energy reforms Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Federal Minister for the Board of Investment, highlighted the growing momentum in Pakistan–China investment cooperation, particularly at the private-sector level. “China’s remarkable development over the past decades offers valuable lessons and emphasised Pakistan’s vast mineral potential,” he noted. He shared that hundreds of Pakistani private companies had engaged with Chinese counterparts, resulting in MoUs and growing business-to-business (B2B) collaboration, and appreciated CCCPK’s role in facilitating these engagements. The forum concluded with business matchmaking sessions and a stall exhibition, enabling direct engagement between Pakistani and Chinese companies, project showcasing, and discussions on potential partnerships and investment opportunities. [...]

India to slash tariffs on high-end EU cars to 30% in boost for luxury carmakers

January 28, 2026 4:13

NEW DELHI: India will immediately slash duties on high-end European cars to 30% from as high as 110% under its new trade deal with the EU, an official said, opening the tightly controlled market to luxury carmakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. India and the European Union finalised a long-delayed deal on Tuesday that will cut tariffs on most goods and boost trade, at a time when governments worldwide are seeking to hedge against fickle U.S. policy and manage growing trade tensions. India is the third-largest car market globally by sales after the United States and China. But its domestic auto industry has been among the world’s most protected, with the government levying tariffs of between 70% and 110% on imported cars. India-EU FTA ‘to hurt’ Pakistan’s textile sector, warn experts Priciest European cars benefit from biggest duty cuts While India agreed under the deal to reduce import tariffs on cars above an import price of 15,000 euros ($17,963) to 10% over time, details of how the reductions will be implemented were not disclosed publicly. A senior Indian government official, however, said New Delhi agreed to immediately reduce import duties on 100,000 traditional internal combustion engine cars annually split between three price categories. European cars with an import price of 15,000 euros to 35,000 euros will see tariffs reduced to 35%, with annual imports capped at 34,000 units, said the official, who asked not to be named as the deal still requires legal vetting. Cars priced 35,000 euros to 50,000 euros will be charged a 30% duty, with imports limited to 33,000 units a year, the official said. And 33,000 cars priced over 50,000 euros will also be subject to a reduced tariff of 30%. The two highest price categories will see the largest tariff reductions. And the cap for all three categories combined will be raised to 160,000 units over 10 years, the official said. India’s trade ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the details of the agreement. India-EU FTA: MoC weighing potential impact on exports More Indians developing a taste for luxury At a time when a growing number of Indians are developing a taste for opulence - from expensive homes to watches and even bathroom fittings - luxury cars made up less than 1% of the 4.4 million passenger vehicles sold in the country last year. While executives have said that lower tariffs are unlikely to translate into immediate price cuts, they said the reductions will allow them to bring more vehicles to the market. Lower import taxes should also be a boost for other European automakers such as Volkswagen, Renault and Stellantis, which have said increased trade will also result in increased technology transfer and shared supply chains. Europe and India seek closer ties with ‘mother of all deals’ Local EV manufacturers to remain protected for now India will, meanwhile, also cut import duties to 30% to 35% on a total of 20,000 European-made electric vehicles, the official said, but only five years after the trade deal is implemented. Those tariff cuts will only apply to EVs priced above 20,000 euros in order to protect domestic players like Tata Motors and Mahindra. Similar to combustion engines, the duty on EVs will reduce to 10% over five years and the annual import quota will rise to 90,000 units, the official added. [...]

Govt reviewing measures to ease cost burden on exporters, Aurangzeb says

January 28, 2026 3:04

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Wednesday the government was reviewing cost-of-doing-business challenges faced by export-oriented industries. The finance minister said this in a meeting with a delegation of the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA). “Government is actively reviewing various issues affecting the cost of doing business for export-oriented industries,” Aurangzeb was quoted as saying in a statement from the Finance Division. Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik was also present at the meeting. During the meeting, the ministers emphasised that the textile industry remained “a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy due to its significant contribution to exports, employment and industrial activity”. Also read: Value-added textile segment grows to $7.70bn YoY in 1H FY26 The ministers further affirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a “fair and predictable policy environment for businesses, highlighting the importance of equity, transparency and broad-based participation across the economy”. It was emphasised that efforts were underway to address genuine concerns of compliant sectors, while advancing structural reforms through consultation and institutional processes. The finance minister noted that energy affordability and reliability remained important priorities and that relevant options were being examined in consultation with concerned ministries and stakeholders to improve efficiency and competitiveness, while ensuring fiscal responsibility and system sustainability. “Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb underlined that reforms in the energy sector are being pursued in a balanced manner to support industrial productivity and protect the long-term interests of the national economy. “He noted that immediate issues requiring attention are being reviewed on priority, while broader policy matters would be taken forward through established budgetary and reform mechanisms. “Issues related to operational constraints and supply-side challenges in certain industrial areas were also discussed, with the ministers assuring the delegation that coordination with relevant authorities would continue to ensure smooth industrial operations. The importance of maintaining constructive engagement between the government and industry was emphasised, particularly at a time of evolving domestic and international economic conditions,” the Finance Division said. Also read: India-EU FTA ‘to hurt’ Pakistan’s textile sector, warn experts Earlier, the APTMA delegation briefed the ministers on the prevailing situation of the textile sector and highlighted the pressures being faced by exporters in an increasingly competitive global environment. The delegation noted that changing international market dynamics and rising input costs had created challenges for the sector and underscored the need for a supportive and stable operating framework to sustain export growth and employment. The delegation also drew attention to issues related to energy costs, regulatory compliance and taxation, noting that cumulative cost pressures affect competitiveness in export markets. [...]

Rupee records gain against US dollar

January 28, 2026 2:11

FBR to keep all field offices open on Saturday to facilitate taxpayers

January 28, 2026 2:07

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced that all its field formations, including Large Taxpayer Offices (LTOs), Medium Taxpayer Offices (MTOs), Corporate Tax Offices (CTOs) and Regional Tax Offices (RTOs), will remain open on Saturday, January 31, 2026. According to an FBR press release issued on Wednesday, the decision has been taken to facilitate taxpayers and ensure smooth collection of revenues. The FBR said that all LTOs, MTOs, CTOs and RTOs will remain operational on the said date for the collection of taxes, duties and other government revenues. “All field offices will function on Saturday as per normal working hours,” the statement said. The move aims to provide additional convenience to taxpayers, particularly those requiring in-person services ahead of deadlines. [...]

Copper and aluminium climb as weak dollar extends metals rally

January 28, 2026 1:35

Gold price per tola hits record-high in Pakistan

January 28, 2026 1:35

Gold prices in Pakistan hit a record high in Pakistan on Wednesday. In the local market, gold price per tola reached Rs551,662 after a gain of Rs21,100 during the day. Similarly, 10-gram gold was sold at Rs472,961 after it increased by Rs18,090, according to rates shared by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA). On Tuesday, gold price per tola reached Rs530,562 after a decline of Rs1,500 during the day. The international rate of gold was up by $211 to reach $5,293 per ounce (with a premium of $20). Meanwhile, the price of silver increased by Rs271 to reach Rs11,911 per tola, a new all-time high. Moreover, international gold broke through $5,200 for the first time on Wednesday, ahead of a US Federal Reserve monetary policy decision. Spot gold rose 0.6% to $5,219.97 per ounce, as of 0153 GMT, after scaling a record high of $5,224.95 earlier, up more than 20% since the start of the year. US gold ‌futures for February delivery surged 2.6% to $5,216.80 per ounce. [...]

Oil prices hover around four-month high, buoyed by weak dollar and outages

January 28, 2026 1:31

LONDON: Oil prices hit their highest since late September on Wednesday after a winter storm disrupted U.S. crude output while a weak U.S. dollar and continued Kazakh outages lent further support. At 1302 GMT, Brent crude futures ticked up 38 cents, or 0.6%, at $67.95 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was up 37 cents, or 0.6%, at $62.76. Both grades are headed for their biggest monthly rises in percentage terms since July 2023, with Brent set to rise around 12% and WTI around 10%. Both benchmarks had climbed by about 3% on Tuesday. The U.S. dollar is hovering near four-year lows against a basket of other currencies, reflecting weakness that makes dollar-denominated commodities such as oil cheaper for those holding other currencies. The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to hold interest rates steady with Wednesday’s decision slated to be announced at 1900 GMT. On the supply side, exports of crude oil from U.S. Gulf Coast ports tumbled to zero on Sunday before rebounding on Monday, after a massive winter storm swept across the country, ship-tracking service Vortexa said. Kazakh output is gradually resuming Lost production in Kazakhstan is also underpinning the price rally, though the OPEC+ member hopes that output at the Tengiz field might resume gradually within a week. Sources, however, have said this might take longer. Meanwhile, pipeline operator CPC, which handles about 80% of Kazakhstan’s oil exports, has restored full loading capacity at its Black Sea terminal after maintenance at a mooring point hit by drones, sources said. On the supply side, the OPEC+ group comprising the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and other allies is set to keep its pause on oil output increases for March at a meeting on February 1, OPEC+ delegates said. Elsewhere, U.S. officials are working to issue a general licence that would lift some sanctions on Venezuela’s energy sector, sources said, which could weigh on prices. A U.S. aircraft carrier and supporting warships have arrived in the Middle East, U.S. officials told Reuters, adding to President Donald Trump’s capabilities to potentially take military action against Iran, which has increased concerns of supply disruptions from OPEC’s fourth-biggest crude producer. On the demand side, U.S. crude oil and gasoline stockpiles were expected to have risen in the week ended January 23 while distillate inventories are likely to have declined, a Reuters poll showed. [...]

Most Gulf bourses gain on earnings, oil

January 28, 2026 1:28

Sri Lankan shares end slightly up as real estate stocks rise

January 28, 2026 1:25

Stocks end flat amid range-bound trading session

January 28, 2026 1:12

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) observed another volatile session, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index closing on a largely flat note on Wednesday. The session remained range-bound, as the index oscillated between an intra-day high of 189,183.88 and a low of 188,179.50, indicating cautious investor sentiment in the absence of strong fresh triggers. At close, the KSE-100 index settled at 188,380.38, a gain of 177.53 points or 0.09%. Buying interest in heavyweight names such as UBL, PPL, PIOC, OGDC, and POL provided solid support, cumulatively adding 689 points to the index. However, profit-taking in FFC, MARI, and HUBC capped upside momentum, shaving off a combined 430 points, brokerage house Topline Securities said in its post-market report. “Investors remained cautious in the absence of fresh positive triggers, while rollover-week dynamics kept intermittent selling pressure intact throughout the trading session,” Ali Najib, Deputy Head of Trading, Arif Habib Ltd said. “Going forward, our view of consolidation is still intact as we expect the market to consolidate within the 185k–190k range, with 185k likely to serve as the first key support level,” he envisaged. In a key development, total foreign investment into Pakistan dropped substantially to $207 million in July–December 2025-26, down from $1.343 billion a year earlier. On Tuesday, PSX closed marginally lower as cautious trading prevailed following the State Bank of Pakistan’s surprise no-change policy decision to uphold the key rate. The benchmark KSE-100 Index slipped 384.80 points, or 0.20%, to close at 188,202.86. Internationally, global stocks rose for a fifth straight session on Tuesday, reaching an intraday record as the pace of the U.S. earnings season picked up, while the dollar sank to its lowest level in nearly four years ahead of a policy announcement from the Federal Reserve. On Wall Street, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq were higher, with the benchmark S&P index registering a record close, as investors gauged a flurry of major earnings releases, ‌including results from airplane maker Boeing and shipping company United Parcel Service, which said it would cut up to 30,000 jobs in operational roles this year. The Dow Industrials were pulled lower by a 1.6% decline in Boeing, along with a drop of about 20% in UnitedHealth, which said its 2026 revenue would shrink. MSCI’s gauge of stocks across the globe rose 8.92 points, or 0.85%, to 1,053.09 and was on track for a fifth straight daily gain, its longest run of gains this year, after reaching an intraday record of 1,053.88. Meanwhile, the Pakistani rupee registered marginal improvement against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Wednesday. At close, the local currency settled at 279.81, a gain of Re0.01 against the greenback. Volume on the all-share index increased to 953.92 million from 749.25 million recorded in the previous close. The value of shares declined to Rs48.88 billion from Rs53.06 billion in the previous session. K-Electric Ltd was the volume leader with 198.69 million shares, followed by Nishat ChunPower with 47.82 million shares, and LSE Ventures Ltd with 35.22 million shares. Shares of 485 companies were traded on Wednesday, of which 182 registered an increase, 253 recorded a fall, and 50 remained unchanged. [...]

India bonds rise as RBI moves up debt-buy plan; budget key

January 28, 2026 1:11

Adani Airports urges India to relax seat caps on foreign airlines

January 28, 2026 1:06

HYDERABAD: Adani Airports on Wednesday urged India to ease limits on how many seats foreign airlines can sell on flights to and from the country, saying the curbs are holding back its ambition to become a global aviation hub. The limits, part of bilateral air service agreements, are designed to protect domestic airlines, but have long been a source of frustration for overseas carriers. Dubai’s Emirates, for example, has said demand was much higher than the weekly seat caps under the India–UAE bilateral agreement. “In the short term, growth in Indian aviation is constrained by bilateral agreements,” Adani Airports Chief Executive Arun Bansal said during a panel discussion at an Indian air show in Hyderabad. Billionaire Ambani, telcos spar with Adani’s Mumbai airport on mobile networks “For India to become a hub, we need an open skies approach.” An Indian government spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. India is the world’s fastest-growing aviation market. Adani Airports, part of billionaire Gautam Adani’s group, operates eight airports, and has plans to bid for 11 more as part of its $11 billion expansion strategy. Indian airlines, including market leader IndiGo, have backed the government’s decision to maintain seat caps, arguing that a rapid liberalisation of bilateral deals could undermine domestic carriers that are still expanding their fleets. [...]

Amazon axes 16,000 jobs as it pushes AI and efficiency

January 28, 2026 12:53

Amazon confirmed 16,000 corporate job cuts on Wednesday, completing a plan for around 30,000 since October, while leaving open the possibility of further reductions. Reuters first reported last week that Amazon was planning a second round of job cuts as part of its broader goal under CEO Andy Jassy, who has been trying to reduce bureaucracy and abandon underperforming businesses. Amazon said on Tuesday it was closing its remaining bricks-and-mortar Fresh grocery stores and Go markets, despite years of effort, and said it was dropping its Amazon One biometric payment system, which scans the palm of a customer’s hand. Although 30,000 represents a small portion of Amazon’s 1.58 million employees, who are mostly in fulfillment centers and warehouses, it is nearly 10% of its corporate workforce and represents the largest job cuts in its three-decades, surpassing the 27,000 it pared between late 2022 and early 2023. Amazon announces $35 billion investment in India The job cuts were necessary to strengthen the company by “reducing layers, increasing ownership, and removing bureaucracy” at Amazon, its top human resources executive, Beth Galetti, said in a post. Galetti left open the possibility of further reductions, saying some teams will continue to “make adjustments as appropriate”. The latest cuts mark the second major round of layoffs in three months after Amazon pared 14,000 jobs in October saying at the time that artificial intelligence and concerns over shifting corporate culture were to blame. Amazon has also said it overhired during the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand for online shopping skyrocketed. “Some of you might ask if this is the beginning of a new rhythm – where we announce broad reductions every few months,” Galetti said in Wednesday’s note. “That’s not our plan,” she said. ‘Project dawn’ Amazon on Tuesday mistakenly sent an email appearing to refer to the layoff plan as “Project Dawn” to some Amazon Web Services staff, unsettling thousands of workers. The full scope of the cuts could not be learned, but employees from multiple AWS units, the Alexa voice assistant, Prime Video, devices, advertising and last mile delivery, among others, indicated online and in emails to Reuters that they had be impacted. Amazon, which began the corporate job cuts on Tuesday by announcing its plans to close the Fresh and Go stores, did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. The job cuts also underscore how artificial intelligence is changing corporate workforce dynamics. Significant improvements in AI assistants are helping enterprises execute duties from routine administrative tasks to complex coding problems with rapid speed and precision, driving widespread adoption. Jassy said last summer that rising use of AI tools would mean more automation of duties, leading to corporate job losses. Executives at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos said last week that while jobs would disappear, new ones would spring up, with two telling Reuters that AI would be used as an excuse by companies planning to cut jobs anyway. Tech giants, including Amazon, Facebook-parent Meta Platforms and Microsoft, sharply ramped up hiring during the COVID-19 pandemic demand surge and have lately been restructuring. UPS, Pinterest and ASML all announced staff reductions in recent days. Amazon has been investing in robotics at its warehouses to speed up packaging and deliveries for its e-commerce segment, reduce reliance on human labor and cut costs. Shares in Amazon, which is set to report quarterly results next week, were up less than 1% in pre-market trading. [...]

Local manufacturers target 2mn 5G mobile handsets ahead of service launch

January 28, 2026 11:49

Jason Gillespie appointed Hyderabad head coach for PSL 11

January 28, 2026 3:08

Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie has been appointed head coach of Hyderabad for the upcoming season of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), the franchise announced on social media on Wednesday. “Vision clear. Direction locked. Entering a new era,” the franchise said in a post, confirming Gillespie’s appointment and welcoming him to the Kingsmen Cricket family. Gillespie, who has previously served as Pakistan’s red-ball coach, will take charge as Hyderabad look to build a competitive squad for the new PSL season. READ MORE: Hyderabad, Sialkot added to PSL as franchise expands to eight teams Reacting to the announcement, Gillespie said he was “beyond excited” to be part of the Kingsmen Cricket setup and to work with the Hyderabad team. “Beyond excited to be part of the Kingsmen Cricket family. So looking forward to being part of the Hyderabad team,” he said in a post. The appointment marks a key step in Hyderabad’s preparations as the franchise aims to enter a new phase under experienced leadership ahead of the upcoming PSL campaign. [...]

Govt reviewing measures to ease cost burden on exporters, Aurangzeb says

January 28, 2026 3:04

Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu assumes charge as SECP chairman

January 28, 2026 2:54

Trump tells Iran to make nuclear deal or next attack will be ‘far worse’

January 28, 2026 2:37

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump urged Iran on Wednesday to come to the table and make a deal on nuclear weapons or the next US attack would be far worse, but Tehran said that if that happened it would fight back as never before. “Hopefully Iran will quickly ‘Come to the Table’ and negotiate a fair and equitable deal - NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS - one that is good for all parties. Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!” Trump wrote in a social media post. The Republican US president, who pulled out of world powers’ 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran during his first White House term, noted that his last warning to Iran was followed by a military strike in June. “The next attack will be far worse! Don’t make that happen again,” Trump wrote. He also repeated that a US “armada” was heading toward the Islamic Republic. Iran’s mission to the United Nations responded in kind. Iran says it did not request negotiations with US “Last time the US blundered into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, it squandered over $7 trillion and lost more than 7,000 American lives,” it said in an X post quoting Trump’s statement. “Iran stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests—BUT IF PUSHED, IT WILL DEFEND ITSELF AND RESPOND LIKE NEVER BEFORE!” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said he had not been in contact with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in recent days or requested negotiations, state media reported on Wednesday. Trump said a US naval force headed by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was approaching Iran. Two US officials told Reuters on Monday that the Lincoln and supporting warships had arrived in the Middle East. The warships started moving from the Asia-Pacific region last week as US-Iranian tensions soared following a bloody crackdown on protests across Iran by its clerical authorities in recent weeks. Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene if Iran continued to kill protesters, but the countrywide demonstrations over economic privations and political repression have since abated. He has said the United States would act if Tehran resumed its nuclear program after the June airstrikes by Israeli and U.S. forces on key nuclear installations. [...]

Rupee records gain against US dollar

January 28, 2026 2:11

FBR to keep all field offices open on Saturday to facilitate taxpayers

January 28, 2026 2:07

Copper and aluminium climb as weak dollar extends metals rally

January 28, 2026 1:35

Gold price per tola hits record-high in Pakistan

January 28, 2026 1:35

Most Gulf bourses gain on earnings, oil

January 28, 2026 1:28

Sri Lankan shares end slightly up as real estate stocks rise

January 28, 2026 1:25

China and EU are partners not rivals, Chinese foreign minister says

January 28, 2026 1:17

BEIJING: China’s foreign minister said China and the European Union were partners and not rivals in a phone call with the French president’s diplomatic adviser on Wednesday, China’s state-run news agency Xinhua reported. Japan threatening us militarily, China foreign minister tells German counterpart China and the EU hold the same or similar positions on issues such as promoting multipolarity in the world, and are capable of resolving trade disputes through dialogue, Wang Yi told France’s Emmanuel Bonne, according to the report. [...]

India bonds rise as RBI moves up debt-buy plan; budget key

January 28, 2026 1:11

Adani Airports urges India to relax seat caps on foreign airlines

January 28, 2026 1:06

Amazon axes 16,000 jobs as it pushes AI and efficiency

January 28, 2026 12:53

Agha calls for focus beyond Babar Azam ahead of T20I series

January 28, 2026 12:47

Pakistan’s T20I captain Salman Ali Agha on Wednesday urged a shift in focus from individual stars to collective performance as the national side prepares to face Australia in a three-match T20I series in Lahore. Speaking at a pre-series press conference, Agha said the team was charting its own course and was not influenced by external noise or excessive attention on star players. “We are moving in our own direction. The next three matches are very important. This series will give us a good idea about our 11 players,” Agha said. The right-handed batter expressed hope that the spotlight would not remain fixed on former captain Babar Azam alone, stressing that the squad had depth and multiple match-winners. “I hope that when I attend the press conference, there are no questions about Babar. There are 14 other players, batsmen in the team, so think about them as well and talk about them too. Let him be and focus on batting,” he said. READ MORE: Match officials announced for Pakistan-Australia T20I series Agha underlined the importance of clarity in roles and adaptability during the series, describing it as a key test ahead of the T20 World Cup. “The series against Australia is very important for us. Roles are clear for every player; we know exactly what we need from each one. We should play according to what the team requires. If a run rate of six is needed, I will play accordingly; if 10 is needed, I will adjust,” he added. Commenting on the opposition, Agha said Australia remained a formidable side regardless of the absence of some senior players, calling the series an opportunity for Pakistan to assert themselves. “Australia’s mindset is consistent; even if their main players are missing, it doesn’t make a difference. For us, this is an opportunity to win the series. You have to play according to what the team demands; you can’t choose your own position. Usman Tariq can prove to be a trump card for us,” he said. Australia captain Mitchell Marsh also highlighted the importance of the series as World Cup preparation and praised Pakistan’s fast-bowling tradition. “I’m really excited to be here as this series is ideal preparation for the World Cup. Pakistan have a great tradition of fast bowling and I’m looking forward to facing Shaheen Shah Afridi,” Marsh said. “Winning away from home is always tough, especially in these conditions, but that’s exactly what makes it a great challenge for us,” he added. READ MORE: Australia rest Cummins, Hazlewood, Maxwell for Pakistan T20 series All three matches of the series will be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The first T20I is scheduled for Thursday, followed by the second on Saturday and the third on Sunday. The series will also serve as vital match practice for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup, to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Pakistan squad Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk) and Usman Tariq. Australia squad Mitchell Marsh (captain), Adam Zampa, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Josh Inglis, Josh Philippe, Mahli Beardman, Marcus Stoinis, Matt Short, Matthew Kuhnemann, Matthew Renshaw, Mitch Owen, Sean Abbott, Travis Head, and Xavier Bartlett. Series schedule (Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore) 1st T20I: Thursday, 29 January – 4:00pm PKT 2nd T20I: Saturday, 31 January – 4:00pm PKT 3rd T20I: Sunday, 1 February – 4:00pm PKT [...]

Punjab by-polls: Notices served on minister, SAPM for 'violating' election code of conduct

November 21, 2025 1:33

This collage of pictures show Federal Minister of Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Huzaifa Rehman. —APP/NA website/FileShow-cause notices have been issued to Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Special Assistant to the... [...]

27th Amendment empowers FCC to hear all constitutional cases: minister

November 20, 2025 7:59

Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik addressing an event on December 21, 2024. — Facebook@BarristerAqeelMalikState Minister for Law Aqeel Malik said on Thursday that the 27th Amendment has vested authority to hear constitutional matters in the Federal Constitutional... [...]

JF-17 attracts strong attention at Dubai Airshow as friendly country inks procurement MoU

November 20, 2025 5:25

Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder fighter jet during World Defence Air Show 2024 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, February 7, 2024. — PPI Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder garnered significant attention at the Dubai Airshow 2025, leading to the signing of a memorandum of understanding with a... [...]

US lawmakers laud Punjab govt's initiative to modernise brick-kiln

November 20, 2025 4:39

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attends ceremony in this undated image. — Facebook/@MaryamNSharifISLAMABAD: The Congressional Pakistan Caucus has applauded Punjab’s drive to modernise its brick-kiln sector, saying the reforms could serve as a pilot for eliminating bonded labour and... [...]

Security forces gun down 30 terrorists in multiple IBOs in KP: ISPR

November 20, 2025 4:38

Frontier Constabulary and army personnel gather stand guard in Kurram, January 17, 2025. — AFPSecurity forces killed 30 Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists during multiple intelligence-based operations carried out by security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa , the military's media wing... [...]

MQM-P calls for new province in Sindh

November 20, 2025 3:56

Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan Convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui addresses a press conference in Karachi, November 20, 2025. — Screengrab via YouTube/Geo NewsKARACHI: With discussions on the 28th Amendment gaining momentum, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement–Pakistan has once again... [...]

US report validates Pakistan military edge over India: PM

November 20, 2025 3:55

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addresses ceremony in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on November 20, 2025. — X/@GovtofPakistanPrime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said a recent US report endorsing Pakistan’s downing of Indian aircraft stands as formal validation of the country’s... [...]

Banned TTP poses serious threat to Pakistan security: UNSC panel

November 20, 2025 10:24

Denmark’s Deputy Permanent Representative to United Nations and chair of UNSC's ISIL, Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee Sandra Jensen Landi. — Screengrab via UN WebTV websiteThe chair of the United Nations Security Council's Daesh and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee has cautioned that the... [...]

CM Afridi clarifies remarks on by-poll after ECP requests army deployment

November 20, 2025 10:01

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Khan Afridi addresses a gathering at Havelian, Abbottabad on November 19, 2025. — Facbook@ImMuhammadSohailAfridiISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Thursday issued a clarification concerning his remarks on the NA-18 by-poll,... [...]

Dubai sees 3.2m Pakistani passengers in 2025 as airport sets new milestone

November 20, 2025 6:16

People sit at a coffee shop as they wait for their flight at the Dubai International Airport, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 17, 2024. — ReutersDUBAI: Dubai International Airport handled 3.2 million passengers travelling from Pakistan in the first nine months of 2025, making the... [...]

Security forces kill 23 Indian proxy terrorists in KP's Kurram

November 20, 2025 5:08

Security forces are seen taking position during an operation. — ISPR/FileRAWALPINDI: Amid country's ongoing fight against the menace of terrorism, security forces have neutralised 23 Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists in separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kurram... [...]

Pakistan to construct island to boost oil exploration: report

November 19, 2025 6:26

Pump jacks operate in front of a drilling rig in an oil field in Midland, Texas United States. — Reuters/FilePakistan's state-owned energy company, Pakistan Petroleum Limited , has announced plans for an artificial island to boost its oil exploration efforts.Islamabad has intensified its... [...]

Russia ready to mediate Pakistan's issues with India, Afghanistan: envoy

November 19, 2025 6:14

Russia's ambassador to Pakistan has extended his country's offer to mediate Islamabad's conflicts with India and Afghanistan, amid strained relations with its neighbouring countries.Islamabad's relations with India have remained tense since the four-day war in May, while the Afghan Taliban regime... [...]

Security forces neutralise four terrorists in KP IBOs

November 19, 2025 5:12

Soldiers ride on a Pakistan Army vehicle in this undated image. — AFP/FileFour terrorists affiliated with Indian proxy, Fitna al-Khawarij, were killed in a series of operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from November 17 to 18, the Inter-Services Public Relations said on Wednesday.An... [...]

Reclassification of 41 candidates on reserved seats goes beyond SC mandate: Justice Mandokhail

November 19, 2025 4:38

Supreme Court's Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail addresses an event related to Labour Day in Islamabad on May 1, 2025. — Screengrab/YouTube/Geo NewsISLAMABAD: Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail has released a detailed dissent in the reserved seats case, stating that the ruling on 41 candidates... [...]

Mother, two children shot dead after violent altercation in North Carolina

January 28, 2026 3:29

Mother, two children shot dead after violent altercation in North CarolinaA quiet Fayetteville neighbourhood was rocked on Sunday night after a triple shooting claimed the lives of a mother and her two children.Fayetteville Police officers responded to reports of gunfire at a home on North Sumac... [...]

Suspect comes to light after Ilhan Omar attack in Minneapolis

January 28, 2026 1:47

Suspect comes to light after Ilhan Omar attack in Minneapolis/Photo credit: ReutersA man accused of attacking Democratic congresswoman Ilhan Omar during a town hall in Minneapolis has been identified as Anthony Kazmierczak after police arrested him at the scene. Officers said Kazmierczak sprayed... [...]

Georgia assistant principal accused of nearly 100 Walmart thefts

January 28, 2026 12:18

Georgia assistant principal accused of nearly 100 Walmart theftsAn assistant principal at a Georgia elementary school has been placed on administrative leave after being accused of repeatedly stealing from a Walmart store, according to authorities.Courtney Shaw, who serves as assistant principal... [...]

'From palace to prison': What South Korea's former first lady's sentence means for political accountability

January 28, 2026 11:15

'From palace to prison': What South Korea’s former first lady’s sentence means for political accountabilityA South Korean court has sentenced former First Lady Kim Keon Hee to 20 months in prison after finding her guilty of accepting bribes from the Unification Church.The swift change... [...]

Starmer vows to remain 'clear-eyed' on national security ahead of China trip

January 28, 2026 10:26

Starmer vows to remain ‘clear-eyed’on national security ahead of China tripUK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has officially arrived in China for a high-stakes three-day visit-the first by a British leader in eight years. The primary goal of this trip is to move the UK-China relationship... [...]

US dollar slips to 4-year low amid Trump's optimistic remarks

January 28, 2026 10:07

US dollar slips to 4-year low amid Trump’s optimistic remarks The US dollar is on a downward trajectory even after Trump’s optimistic remarks, who defended the currency value on Tuesday by calling it “great.” However, soon after Trump's comments, the dollar slipped to... [...]

Trump signals 'de-escalation' of federal surge in Minnesota following Pretti shooting

January 28, 2026 8:45

Trump signals ‘de-escalation’ of federal surge in Minnesota following Pretti shootingPresident Donald Trump has officially declared that following the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minnesota, he is addressing the national outcry by pledging a... [...]

EU, Vietnam to deepen ties on critical minerals, chip supply, 'trusted' 5G

January 28, 2026 8:12

EU, Vietnam to deepen ties on critical minerals, chip supply, ‘trusted’ 5G The EU bloc and Vietnam are set to boost cooperation on trade and investment in critical minerals, chip supply chains, and secure 5G infrastructure in a push to upgrade diplomatic relations and evade... [...]

US Rep. Ilhan Omar assaulted with unknown spray at Minneapolis town hall

January 28, 2026 7:14

US Rep. Ilhan Omar assaulted with unknown spray at Minneapolis town hallUS congresswoman Ilhan Omar was assaulted with unknown white liquid spray during her address at Minneapolis town hall meeting. The unfortunate incident took place when the Minnesota democrat was speaking critically of the... [...]

Bomb cyclone threatens East Coast with blizzards and extreme cold

January 28, 2026 6:03

A powerful bomb cyclone is expected to develop off the US East Coast on Sunday, bringing the threat of a major winter storm, blizzard conditions, and severe cold from the Southeast to New England.Forecasters say the system will form as a strong jet stream over the subtropics collides with a surge... [...]

Ajit Pawar among five killed in deadly Maharashtra aircraft crash

January 28, 2026 5:40

Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, was killed in a charter aircraft crash that also claimed the lives of four others on board, on Wednesday. The aviation regulator confirmed that the aircraft went down in flames while Pawar was travelling to his home region to campaign in local... [...]

Canadian dollar climbs as analysts question US dollar strategy

January 28, 2026 5:25

The Canadian dollar strengthened on Tuesday as the US dollar continued to slide, prompting fresh speculation from currency analysts about whether the decline of the greenback is intentional.Karl Schamotta, chief market strategist at Corpay Inc., said recent trends raise questions about the... [...]

Magnitude 4.1 earthquake felt across Ontario and New York

January 28, 2026 4:54

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck southern Ontario late Monday night, sending tremors across a wide area of the province and into parts of the United States.According to the United States Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at 10:59PM local time and was relatively shallow, with a depth of... [...]

Toronto cleanup begins after record snowfall hits Ontario

January 28, 2026 4:24

Toronto is facing a major cleanup effort after a historic winter storm blanketed the city and much of southern Ontario with record-breaking snowfall.The storm that hit on January 25 dumped 61 centimetres of snow across Toronto, making it the snowiest single day the city has ever recorded, per The... [...]

IMF says Canada's interprovincial trade barriers are costing billions

January 28, 2026 4:10

The International Monetary Fund estimates that barriers between provinces amount to an internal tariff of about nine per cent.Restrictions on services moving across provincial borders account for much of the impact, with effective tariffs reaching as high as 40 per cent in sectors such as health... [...]

وادی تیراہ مسئلہ سیاسی نعرہ بازی نہیں بلکہ فوری حل کا متقاضی ہے، فیصل کریم کنڈی

January 28, 2026 3:01

فائل فوٹوگورنر خیبر پختونخوا فیصل کریم کنڈی نے کہا ہے کہ وادی تیراہ متاثرین کا مسئلہ سیاسی نعرہ بازی نہیں بلکہ فوری حل کا متقاضی... [...]

سانحہ گل پلازا: شہداء کے لواحقین کا اپنے پیاروں کی لاشوں کا مطالبہ

January 28, 2026 3:01

فوٹو: اے پی پیسانحہ گل پلازا کے شہداء کے لواحقین نے اپنے پیاروں کی لاشوں کا مطالبہ کردیا۔گل پلازا آتشزدگی میں لاپتہ ہونے والے... [...]

گھریلو تشدد بل و کم سنی کی شادیوں سے متعلق سوال پر وفاقی وزیر مذہبی امور نے کیا کہا؟

January 28, 2026 2:01

وفاقی وزیر مذہبی امور سردار محمد یوسف سے وفاقی حکومت کے گھریلو تشدد بل اور کم سنی کی شادیوں سے متعلق سوال پوچھ لیا گیا۔صحافی نے وفاقی... [...]

سندھ حکومت پیشہ ورانہ غفلت کی مرتکب ہے، حیدر عباس رضوی

January 28, 2026 2:01

یہ نہ خریدار بچا سکے، نہ دکاندار کو بچا سکے، حیدر رضوی - فائل فوٹومتحدہ قومی موومنٹ کے سینئر رہنما حیدر عباس رضوی نے کہا ہے کہ سندھ... [...]

کوئی ملک میں انتشار پھیلانے کی بات کرے تو منع کردو: مریم نواز

January 28, 2026 2:01

وزیراعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز نے کہا ہے کہ جب کوئی ملک میں انتشار پھیلانے کی بات کرے تو منع کردو اور کسی کی نہ سنو۔لاہور میں نوجوانوں کی... [...]

نیب کی تاریخ کی سب سے بڑی یکمشت ریکوری

January 28, 2026 1:01

فائل فوٹوقومی احتساب بیورو کی تاریخ کی سب سے بڑی یکمشت ریکوری سامنے آگئی، 4 ارب سے زائد قومی خزانے کو واپس ہوگئے۔ کوہستان میگا کرپشن... [...]

مشکل فیصلے کر کے ملک کو دیوالیہ ہونے سے بچایا، احسن اقبال

January 28, 2026 1:01

فائل فوٹو۔وفاقی وزیر منصوبہ بندی و ترقیات احسن اقبال نے کہا ہے کہ دنیا پاکستان کی کامیابیوں کی معترف ہے۔ اسلام اباد میں ایف پی سی سی... [...]

پاکستان میں پیکا ایکٹ سے آزادی اظہار کا گلا گھونٹا گیا ہے، راجا ناصر عباس

January 28, 2026 1:01

ناجائز طور پر پریشرائز کرکے میڈیا کو کہا جاتا ہے کہ فلاں جماعت یا شخص کا نام نہ لیا جائے، علامہ راجا ناصر عباس، فائل فوٹو: فیس بکقائد... [...]

کشمیری آزادی کی جنگ لڑ رہے ہیں، پاکستان ہر فورم پر انکا ساتھ دے رہا ہے، امیر مقام

January 28, 2026 12:01

وفاقی وزیر برائے امور کشمیر انجینئر امیر مقام۔وفاقی وزیر برائے امور کشمیر، گلگت بلتستان اور سیفران انجینئر امیر مقام نے کہا کہ... [...]

بانی کو اسپتال لے جانے کی خبر پر اہلِ خانہ میں شدید تشویش پائی جارہی ہے: بیرسٹر گوہر

January 28, 2026 12:01

آج تک یہ نہیں بتایا جا رہا کہ کس بیماری کی وجہ سے لایا گیا، بیرسٹر گوہر - فوٹو: فائلچیئرمین پاکستان تحریک انصاف بیرسٹر گوہر نے کہا... [...]

شرجیل میمن نے ایم کیو ایم قیادت کو چیلنج دیدیا

January 28, 2026 12:01

فائل فوٹوسینئر وزیر سندھ شرجیل انعام میمن نے متحدہ قومی موومنٹ کی قیادت کی چیلنج دے دیا۔کراچی میں میڈیا سے گفتگو کرتے ہوئے شرجیل... [...]

ریسکیو عملہ 40 منٹ تاخیر سے کیوں پہنچا؟ ابتدائی تحقیقاتی رپورٹ

January 28, 2026 12:01

فائل فوٹوگل پلازا آتشزدگی کے دوران ریسکیو 1122 کے عملے نے جائے وقوع پر پہنچنے میں تقریباً 40 منٹ کی تاخیر کیوں کی؟سانحہ گل پلازا میں... [...]

بشریٰ بی بی کیلئے ضروری سامان اڈیالہ جیل پہنچادیا گیا، ذرائع

January 28, 2026 12:01

فائل فوٹوبانی چیئرمین پاکستان تحریک انصاف کی اہلیہ بشریٰ بی بی کے لیے ضروری سامان اڈیالہ جیل پہنچادیا گیا۔جیل ذرائع کے مطابق اڈیالہ... [...]

سہیل آفریدی کو گرفتار کرکے عدالت میں پیش کرنے کا حکم

January 28, 2026 11:01

فائل فوٹواسلام آباد کی عدالت نے وزیراعلیٰ خیبر پختونخوا سہیل آفریدی کو گرفتار کرکے پیش کرنے کا حکم دے دیا۔ڈسٹرکٹ اینڈ سیشن کورٹس... [...]

میئر کراچی سے اتفاق نہیں کرتا: شرجیل انعام میمن

January 28, 2026 10:01

—فائل فوٹوسینئر وزیر سندھ شرجیل انعام میمن نے میئر کراچی مرتضیٰ وہاب کے مؤقف سے انکار کرتے ہوئے کہا ہے کہ میئر کراچی سے اتفاق نہیں... [...]

مہاراشٹرا کے نائب وزیراعلیٰ کے طیارے کے حادثے سے قبل پائلٹ نے کیا کہا؟

January 28, 2026 4:01

--تصویر سوشل میڈیابھارتی ریاست مہاراشٹر کے نائب وزیرِ اعلیٰ اجیت پوار کے طیارے کو پیش آنے والے حادثے سے قبل طیارے کے پائلٹ کی گفتگو... [...]

حماس نے غزہ کا انتظام فلسطینی کمیشن کے حوالے کرنے پر رضامندی ظاہر کر دی

January 28, 2026 3:01

تصویر سوشل میڈیا۔حماس نے غزہ کی پٹی کا انتظام فلسطینی کمیشن کے حوالے کرنے پر رضامندی ظاہر کر دی۔ غیر ملکی خبر ایجنسی کے مطابق حماس... [...]

بھارت میں جان لیوا نیپاہ وائرس پھیلنے لگا، پھیلاؤ روکنے کیلئے کئی ممالک میں اقدامات

January 28, 2026 2:01

--تصویر سوشل میڈیابھارت میں جان لیوا نیپاہ وائرس کے کیسز رپورٹ ہوئے ہیں۔ خبر ایجنسی کے مطابق وائرس کا پھیلاؤ روکنے کےلیے تھائی لینڈ،... [...]

بھارت اور یورپی یونین کے آزاد تجارتی و دفاعی معاہدے، امریکا ناراض

January 28, 2026 12:01

امریکی وزیر خزانہ اسکاٹ بیسینٹبھارت اور یورپی یونین کے درمیان آزاد تجارتی اور دفاعی معاہدے پر امریکا ناراض ہوگیا۔امریکی وزیر خزانہ... [...]

ایران نے معاہدہ نہ کیا تو اگلا حملہ کہیں زیادہ بدتر ہوگا، ٹرمپ

January 28, 2026 12:01

وقت تیزی سے ختم ہو رہا ہے اور معاملہ واقعی نہایت اہم ہے، میں نے ایران سے پہلے بھی کہا تھا معاہدہ کرلو، ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ - فوٹو: فائلامریکا کے... [...]

دبئی میں دنیا کی پہلی سونے کی سڑک بنائی جائے گی

January 28, 2026 10:01

فائل فوٹودبئی کے نئے گولڈ ڈسٹرکٹ کا باقاعدہ افتتاح کردیا گیا۔ دبئی میں دنیا کی پہلی سونے کی سڑک بنائی جائے گی۔دبئی حکومت نے اعلان... [...]

ایران میں اسرائیل کیلئے جاسوسی پر ملزم کو پھانسی دے دی گئی

January 28, 2026 10:01

—فائل فوٹوایران نے اسرائیل کے لیے جاسوسی کے الزام میں گرفتار ایک شخص کو پھانسی دے دی۔ایرانی عدلیہ کے مطابق حمید رضا ثابت اسماعیل پور... [...]

ایران نے امریکا سے مذاکرات کی کوئی درخواست نہیں کی ہے: عباس عراقچی

January 28, 2026 10:01

—فائل فوٹوایرانی وزیر خارجہ عباس عراقچی کا کہنا ہے کہ ایران نے امریکا سے مذاکرات کی کوئی درخواست نہیں کی ہے۔غیر ملکی خبر رساں ادارے... [...]

کم جونگ اُن کا جوہری طاقت بڑھانے کا عندیہ

January 28, 2026 9:01

---فائل فوٹو شمالی کوریا کے سپریم لیڈر کم جونگ اُن نے ملک کی میزائل اور جوہری صلاحیتوں میں مزید اضافے کے منصوبے کا اعلان کرنے کا عندیہ... [...]

شارجہ: چوری شدہ گاڑی چند گھنٹوں میں برآمد، ملزم گرفتار

January 28, 2026 8:01

— اسکرین گریبمتحدہ عرب امارات کی ریاست شارجہ میں چوری ہونے والی گاڑی چند گھنٹوں برآمد کر کے ملزم کو بھی گرفتار کر لیا گیا۔شارجہ میں... [...]

اجیت پاوار کی موت کا سبب بننے والا طیارہ 2023ء میں بھی حادثے کا شکار ہوا: رپورٹ

January 28, 2026 8:01

—فائل فوٹوز مہاراشٹرا کے نائب وزیرِ اعلیٰ اور این سی پی چیف اجیت پاوار آج صبح ایک طیارہ حادثے میں ہلاک ہو گئے۔بھارتی میڈیا کے مطابق... [...]

بھارتیوں کی بڑھتی غیر قانونی امیگریشن عالمی سیکیورٹی کیلئے چیلنج بن گئی

January 28, 2026 6:01

—تصویر بشکریہ غیر ملکی میڈیابھارتیوں کا غیر قانونی امیگریشن کا بڑھتا رجحان عالمی سیکیورٹی کے لیے سنگین چیلنج بن گیا۔بھارتی وزیرِ... [...]

قیامت مزید قریب، علامتی گھڑی کا وقت 4 سیکنڈز آگے بڑھا دیا گیا

January 28, 2026 6:01

— تصویر بشکریہ غیر ملکی میڈیاقیامت کی علامتی گھڑی کا وقت مزید آگے بڑھا دیا گیا ہے، اب اس گھڑی کے مطابق رات کے 12 بجنے میں صرف 85 سیکنڈز... [...]

علاقائی عدم استحکام سے کسی کو فائدہ نہیں ہو گا: ایرانی صدر مسعود پیزشکیان

January 28, 2026 6:01

—فائل فوٹوزایران کے صدر مسعود پزشکیان نے سعودی ولی عہد محمد بن سلمان سے ٹیلی فونک رابطہ کیا ہے جس میں اُنہوں نے اس بات پر زور دیا ہے... [...]

امریکا: ریاست منی سوٹا کے وفاقی جج نے آئی سی ای کے سربراہ کو طلب کرلیا

January 28, 2026 6:01

فوٹو بشکریہ بین الاقوامی میڈیا امریکی ریاست منی سوٹا کے چیف وفاقی جج پیٹرک جے شلٹس نے امیگریشن اینڈ کسٹمز انفورسمنٹ کے قائم مقام... [...]

ملک میں سونے کی قیمت کا ایک اور ریکارڈ: فی تولہ ساڑھے 5 لاکھ روپے سے تجاوز کر گیا

January 28, 2026 10:01

---فائل فوٹوملک میں سونے کی فی تولہ قیمت ساڑھے 5 لاکھ روپے سے تجاوز کر گئی ہے۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی ایشن کے مطابق... [...]

پی ایس ایکس: کاروبار کا ملا جلا دن، 100 انڈیکس میں 177 پوائنٹس کا اضافہ

January 28, 2026 5:01

—فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے تیسرے روز کاروبار کا ملا جلا دن رہا جہاں 100 انڈیکس میں 177 پوائنٹس کا اضافہ... [...]

جنوری میں مہنگائی کی شرح 5 سے 6 فیصد رہنے کی توقع، آؤٹ لک رپورٹ جاری

January 27, 2026 4:01

—فائل فوٹووزارتِ خزانہ نے جنوری تک معاشی آؤٹ لک رپورٹ جاری کر دی۔وزارتِ خزانہ کی آؤٹ لک رپورٹ کے مطابق جنوری میں مہنگائی کی شرح 5... [...]

ایرانی کرنسی کی قدر میں ریکارڈ کمی ہوگئی

January 27, 2026 3:01

تصویر سوشل میڈیا۔ایرانی کرنسی کی قدر میں ریکارڈ کمی ہوگئی، ایرانی کرنسی ٹریکنگ ویب سائٹس کا کہنا ہے کہ ایک ڈالر کے مقابلے میں ایرانی... [...]

حکومت کی آئی ایم ایف سے کچھ شعبوں میں رعایتیں لینے کی تیاری

January 27, 2026 12:01

—فائل فوٹوپاکستان اور انٹرنیشنل مانیٹری فنڈ کے درمیان آئندہ مذاکرات کے معاملے پر نئی حکمتِ عملی طے پائی ہے۔وزارتِ خزانہ کے ذرائع... [...]

سونے کی فی تولہ قیمت 1500 روپے کم ہوگئی

January 27, 2026 10:01

ملک میں آج سونے کی فی تولہ قیمت 1500 جبکہ 10 گرام سونے کی قیمت 1286 روپے کم ہوگئی۔قیمتوں میں کمی کے بعد فی تولہ سونے کی قیمت 5 لاکھ 30 ہزار 562... [...]

اسٹیٹ بینک کا شرح سود برقرار رکھنے کا فیصلہ

January 26, 2026 11:01

فائل فوٹواسٹیٹ بینک نے مانیٹری پالیسی کا اعلان کردیا۔ مرکزی بینک کی جانب سے شرح سود برقرار رکھنے کا فیصلہ کیا گیا... [...]

سونے کی قیمت میں 10 ہزار روپے سے زائد کا اضافہ ہوگیا

January 26, 2026 7:01

فائل فوٹوملک میں سونے کی فی تولہ قیمت میں یکمشت 10 ہزار 900 روپے کا اضافہ ہوگیا۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی ایشن کے مطابق... [...]

پی ایس ایکس میں مثبت رجحان، 100 انڈیکس ایک لاکھ 90 ہزار سے تجاوز کرگیا

January 26, 2026 5:01

فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے پہلے روز آج مثبت رجحان دیکھا جا رہا ہے۔ بازار حصص میں کاروبار کے دوران 100... [...]

پولیٹیکل اکانومی اصل مسئلہ ہے: بلال اظہر کیانی

January 25, 2026 3:01

وفاقی وزیرِ مملکت بلال اظہر کیانی—فائل فوٹووفاقی وزیرِ مملکت بلال اظہر کیانی نے کہا ہے کہ پولیٹیکل اکانومی اصل مسئلہ ہے، حکومت 5 سال... [...]

چند لوگوں نے معاشرے سے امید چھین لی: مصدق ملک

January 25, 2026 3:01

مصق ملک—فائل فوٹووفاقی وزیر برائے موسمیاتی تبدیلی مصدق ملک نے کہا ہے کہ چند لوگوں نے معاشرے سے امید چھین لی ہے۔انہوں نے یہ بات... [...]

پاکستان میں غربت کے خاتمے کیلئے مفتاح اسماعیل نے تجاویز پیش کر دیں

January 25, 2026 3:01

مفتاح اسماعیل— فائل فوٹوسابق وفاقی وزیرِ خزانہ مفتاح اسماعیل نے تجویز دی ہے کہ نیشنل فنانس کمیشن کم کریں، لوکل گورنمنٹ یا پھر نئے... [...]

اسٹیٹ بینک مانیٹری پالیسی میں شرح سود سنگل ڈیجٹ پر لائے، صدر لاہور چیمبر

January 25, 2026 9:01

— فائل فوٹو صدر لاہور ایوان صنعت و تجارت فہیم الرحمٰن سہگل کا کہنا ہے کہ اسٹیٹ بینک کل مانیٹری پالیسی میں شرح سود سنگل ڈیجٹ پر... [...]

ایم ڈی آئی ایم ایف کرسٹالینا جارجیوا شہباز شریف حکومت کی معترف

January 23, 2026 6:01

عالمی مالیاتی ادارے کی مینیجنگ ڈائریکٹر کرسٹالینا جارجیوا نے وزیرِ اعظم شہباز شریف کی معاشی اصلاحات کی تعریف کی ہے۔کرسٹالینا... [...]

پاکستان میں 4 بڑے برانڈز کے 62 ماڈلز سستے ہوں گے

January 23, 2026 3:01

فائل فوٹوپاکستان میں 4 بڑے برانڈز کے 62 موبائل فونز ماڈلز سستے ہوں گے، فیڈرل بورڈ آف ریونیو کسٹمز ویلیوایشن نے نئے اور کم ریٹس مقرر... [...]

Investors cheer the end of Southwest’s open-seating era, as airline forecasts a big 2026 profit

January 28, 2026 11:56

Southwest’s five-decade-long era of open seating ended on Tuesday. [...]

AT&T’s earnings impress as subscriber growth booms and the stock jumps

January 28, 2026 11:50

AT&T added 283,000 fiber subscribers and 421,000 net postpaid phone subscribers in the latest quarter, reflecting a push for “convergence” of connectivity offerings. [...]

Starbucks rewards investors who have been betting the turnaround is taking hold

January 28, 2026 11:46

Starbucks sees a second straight quarter of growth in sales of stores open at least a year, in a sign that the turnaround is taking shape. [...]

Micron and other chip stocks are seeing a big boost after these comments

January 28, 2026 11:38

Seagate says prices could go higher for its storage products as supply remains tight due to AI. [...]

S&P 500 touches 7,000 for the first time, led by a surprising group of stocks

January 28, 2026 10:56

The S&P 500 on Wednesday blew past another psychological barrier, hitting 7,000 for the first time in history — before pulling back. [...]

‘I feel like this does us a disservice’: My brother wants his $1 million inheritance in advance. Should he pay interest?

January 28, 2026 10:47

“The total value of our family trust is $4 million.” [...]

ServiceNow says AI is ‘really kicking in’ — but it’s not enough to help the stock

January 28, 2026 10:46

Shares of the software company were set to extend declines despite a better-than-expected forecast. [...]

‘I don’t own a house’: I’m 50 with $2 million and I’m scared about losing my job. Can I retire early?

January 28, 2026 10:46

“My monthly expenses are around $6,000. That includes rent.” [...]

10,000 flights canceled, a $200 million hit from the storm and a plunging stock: American Airlines’ bad week

January 28, 2026 9:05

American “is not in a position of strength as a business” to weather the reputational hit, which may further weaken customer preference for the airline, at least in the short term. [...]

How do I open a ‘Trump account’? The IRS has one simple solution for you.

January 28, 2026 9:04