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After record crash, PSX rebounds sharply as KSE-100 surges over 5,100 points

March 3, 2026 9:19

A day after observing a massive selloff that saw the largest single-session decline in the bourse’s history, buying momentum returned to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), with the benchmark KSE-100 Index gaining over 5,100 points on Tuesday. The stock market observed heightened volatility at the open, with the benchmark index initially dipping sharply toward the intraday low of 151,258.85 before witnessing aggressive buying interest. During the mid-session, the market moved in a range-bound pattern, moving between the 153,000 and 154,500 levels as participants consolidated gains. However, buying momentum picked up in the final hours of the trading session. The KSE-100 surged past the 156,000 mark and hit an intraday high of 158,217.01 before settling slightly lower by the end. At close, the benchmark index settled at 157,132.09, a gain of 5,159.10 points or 3.39%. On Monday, PSX suffered one of the most dramatic trading days in its history as mounting geopolitical tensions and sharp global risk aversion sparked a massive selloff, wiping out vast amounts of market value and shaking investor confidence nationwide. By the closing bell, the KSE-100 had fallen a staggering 16,089.17 points, i.e. 9.57%, settling at 151,973.00, marking the largest single-day point decline on record. Internationally, stocks resumed their selloff and the dollar strengthened in early Asian trading on Tuesday as investors considered the implications ‌of US and Israeli strikes on Iran on energy prices and the global economy. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 1% to extend losses for a second day, led by a 2.5% tumble in Korean shares, while Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 slumped 0.8%. S&P 500 e-mini futures were down 0.2%. Stocks on Wall Street stabilised after a volatile session on Monday, which saw the S&P 500 rally from an early selloff to close flat and the Nasdaq Composite climb 0.4%, as investors bought the dip in markets after the conflict in the Middle East spilt over into Lebanon. With no end to hostilities in sight, an official from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to marine traffic and the country will fire on any ship trying to pass. Oil and gas prices jumped on Monday, with Brent crude futures surging as much as 13% to $82.37 a barrel, the highest since January 2025, before settling up 7.1% at $78.07 ‌a ⁠barrel. In natural gas markets, benchmark European and Asian LNG prices leapt by around 40% on Monday. The surge in energy prices complicates the Federal Reserve’s efforts to keep inflation under control, with policymakers already showing signs of division around the impact of artificial intelligence on the U.S. economy. Volume on the all-share index declined to 770.69 million from 809.55 million recorded in the previous close. The value of shares decreased to Rs44.36 billion from Rs48.51 billion in the previous session. K-Electric Ltd. was the volume leader with 74.40 million shares, followed by WorldCall Telecom with 50.04 million shares, and Pak Elektron with 38.23 million shares. Shares of 480 companies were traded on Tuesday, of which 213 registered an increase, 228 recorded a fall, and 39 remained unchanged. [...]

Oil rises as expanding US-Israel war with Iran heightens supply risks

March 3, 2026 9:00

SINGAPORE: Brent rose more than $3 on Tuesday for a third day of gains as the widening US-Israeli conflict with Iran and threats to shipping via the Strait of Hormuz heightened fears of supply disruptions from the key Middle East producing region. Brent crude futures were at $80.89 a barrel, up $3.15, or 4.1%, by 0745 GMT. On Monday, the contract surged to as high as $82.37, its highest since January 2025, though it pared those gains to settle 6.7% higher. US West Texas Intermediate crude climbed $2.55, or 3.6%, to $73.78 a barrel. In the previous session, the contract initially climbed to its highest since June 2025 before sliding back to settle up 6.3%. Stocks slide as Middle East conflict fans inflation fears “With no quick de-escalation in sight, the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed and Iran showing a willingness to target energy infrastructure in the region, upside risks remain and they grow the longer the conflict drags on,” Tony Sycamore, IG market analyst, said in a note. The US and Israeli air war against Iran widened on Monday with Israel attacking Lebanon and Iran responding with strikes against energy infrastructure in Gulf countries and against tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. Tankers and container ships are also avoiding the waterway as insurers have cancelled their coverage for vessels, while global oil and gas shipping rates have soared. Concerns about transiting the waterway increased after Iranian media reported on Monday that a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards official said the Strait of Hormuz is closed and warned Iran will fire on any ship trying to pass. About 20% of the world’s oil and gas pass through the Strait of Hormuz. “The market continues to digest the risk of escalation in the Middle East,” said ING analysts in a note on Tuesday. “While there are concerns about oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a greater risk to the market would be Iran targeting additional energy infrastructure in the region. This could lead to more prolonged outages.“ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that the US and Israel’s war against Iran may take “some time” but it will not take years. Analysts expect oil prices to remain elevated over the coming days while markets focus on the impact of the escalating Middle East conflict. Bernstein on Monday raised its 2026 Brent oil price assumption to $80 a barrel from $65, but sees prices reaching $120-$150 in an extreme case of prolonged conflict. Refined product futures are also gaining as the Middle East is a key supplier of fuels and their processing facilities are at risk. On Monday, Saudi Arabia shut its biggest domestic oil refinery after a drone strike. US ultra-low-sulfur diesel futures were up 8.3% at $3.1404 per gallon after reaching a two-year high on Monday, while gasoline futures were up 3.8% at $2.4620 per gallon after climbing 3.7% in the previous session. European gasoil futures gained 9.2% to $967.75 a metric ton, after climbing 18% on Monday. [...]

Qatar leads Gulf declines on LNG halt, Middle East tensions

March 3, 2026 8:51

Most Gulf stock markets fell in early Tuesday trading, led by Qatar, after it halted liquefied natural gas production, as rising Middle East tensions and precautionary regional energy shutdowns weighed on risk sentiment and stoked inflation fears. Israel broadened its campaign with new strikes on Iran and the Hezbollah, while Tehran launched missiles and drones toward Israel, several Gulf states and a British air base in Cyprus, raising concerns of a prolonged conflict. Qatar’s benchmark index shed 1.2%, pressured by a 2% drop in Qatar National Bank, the Gulf’s biggest lender by assets. The Gulf nationcondemned Iranian attacks on its territory and said it reserves complete right to retaliate in a letter to the UN Secretary General and the president of the Security Council on Monday. In Muscat, the index retreated more than 1% in broad declines, while the Kuwaiti index eased 0.1%. Bucking the trend, Saudi Arabia’s benchmark index rose 0.5%, lifted by a 1.9% climb in oil behemoth Saudi Aramco , while petrochemical maker Saudi Basic Industries Corp , of which Aramco owns 70%, added 2.8%. Oil prices rose for a third straight day on Tuesday as escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran and threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz heightened fears of supply disruptions from the key Middle East producing region. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards commander said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz was closed and warned that Iran would set any ship attempting to pass on fire, Iranian media reported. Among individual stocks, Saudi’s budget carrier flynas extended declines to a third straight session, losing 2.9%, as the escalating war disrupted air travel in the region. Elsewhere, Bahrain’s index was little changed. Meanwhile, the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority said the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market would remain closed on March 2 and March 3, citing its supervisory and regulatory mandate over the country’s capital markets. [...]

European stocks slide, gas prices soar on Iran war

March 3, 2026 8:48

LONDON: European stock markets slid further at the start of trading on Tuesday and the region’s natural gas prices soared once more as the Iran war shook financial markets. Frankfurt’s DAX index of top German companies shed 2.0 percent, the Paris CAC 40 lost 1.8 percent and London’s FTSE 100 retreated by 1.4 percent in value. The Dutch TTF natural gas contract, considered the European benchmark, shot up more than 33 percent having rocketed almost 40 percent on Monday after Qatar halted liquefied natural gas production following Iranian attacks on state processing facilities. [...]

Turkiye inflation rose slightly to 31.5% in February

March 3, 2026 8:45

ANKARA: Turkiye annual inflation rate rose slightly in February to a huge 31.5 percent, up from 30.7 in January after several consecutive months of falling, official figures showed on Tuesday. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose 2.96 percent, compared with 4.8 percent in January, driven by housing and food costs, the TUIK statistics agency said. Food prices rose by 6.8 percent over the course of the month, and housing expenditure by 2.4 percent, the figures showed. Year-on-year, the price surges were particularly marked in education (up 55.7 percent), housing (42.3 percent) and food (36.4 percent). As usual, the figures were contested by independent economists from the Inflation Research Group (ENAG), who estimate consumer price inflation rose by 4.01 percent in February, rising to 54.14 percent over the past 12 months. Turkiye has experienced double-digit inflation since 2019, with the year-on-year figure over 30 percent for the past four years. It rose above 75 percent in May 2024 before beginning to slow. [...]

South African rand steady as geopolitical tensions drive safe-haven demand

March 3, 2026 7:17

JOHANNESBURG: The South African rand held steady in early Tuesday trade, even as investors sought safe-haven assets amid escalating US and Israeli strikes on Iran and fears the conflict could broaden into a longer regional war and add to market uncertainty. At 0553 GMT, the rand traded at 16.1475 against the US dollar, little changed from Monday’s close of 16.1175. “At this stage, the ZAR is sitting on the sidelines, as attention is on the EUR and JPY because they import a great deal of oil and gas,” said Adam Phillips, treasury specialist at Umkhulu Treasury. The dollar firmed 0.2% against a basket of currencies, with gold - a major South African export - extending gains. Like other risk-sensitive currencies, the rand often takes cues from global drivers such as US policies, in addition to domestic economic data. South Africa’s benchmark 2035 government bond was also flat in early deals, with the yield at 8.16%. Phillips said there are worries that the conflict could drive up inflation, and economists are now expecting fewer interest rate cuts over the next six months. “I would be surprised to see the ZAR break below 16.00, just because of its beta status, but for the moment, 16.22 is the resistance level,” he noted. [...]

Shanghai stocks retreat from decade high; HK extends losses on Mideast conflict

March 3, 2026 7:10

SHANGHAI: Shanghai shares briefly touched a decade high before reversing to trade lower by midday on Tuesday, while Hong Kong stocks extended their decline, as the Middle East war dampened sentiment and fuelled risk aversion across regional markets. The US-Israel war against Iran has broadened beyond direct strikes on Iranian territory, with Israel conducting air operations against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, while Iran launched missiles and drones on US targets across the Middle East. The benchmark Shanghai Composite index was down 0.07%, while the blue-chip CSI300 Index slipped 0.13%. In Hong Kong, the benchmark Hang Seng Index lost 0.29%, after falling 2.14% a day earlier. Defence stocks led market losses as investors engaged in profit-taking after recent gains, with the sector sub-index plunging 5.57%. Energy stocks outperformed broader markets, with the sector sub-index jumping 5.85% by midday, as rising oil prices fuelled by Middle East tensions boosted investor confidence in energy companies’ profits. Shares of oil giants CNOOC, PetroChina and China Petroleum & Chemical Corp hit their daily upside limits in morning trade. Energy stocks listed in Hong Kong rose 1.63%. “The Middle East conflict’s primary economic impact on China is through oil prices,” Citi analysts said in a note. “The oil shock could cause headline PPI to turn positive earlier than expected, while Chinese CPI is largely insensitive. Prolonged shipping disruptions would pose a secondary risk to China’s six-trillion-dollar trade activities.” Separately, Beijing and Washington have started talks on restarting reciprocal investment, a move that could be one of the few deliverables during an upcoming China visit by US President Donald Trump, the South China Morning Post reported on Tuesday, citing sources. Much of the market attention will be shifted to the annual meeting of China’s parliament convenes from March 5, where major economic targets and the year’s agenda will be mapped out. “As Beijing aimed to markedly raise the consumption ratio in its draft for the 15th Five-Year Plan, we believe Beijing will maintain its policy efforts to bolster consumption,” said Ting Lu, chief China economist at Nomura. “Specifically, we expect the National People’s Congress (NPC) meeting to confirm the actual scale of the fiscal subsidy, reiterate some structural measures, including providing childbirth subsidies and improving the social safety net.” [...]

Daily LNG freight rates jump over 40% amid Mideast strikes, Spark Commodities says

March 3, 2026 6:31

SINGAPORE: Daily freight rates of liquefied natural gas (LNG) jumped more than 40% on Monday as a widening conflict following US and Israeli strikes on Iran - and Tehran’s retaliation - choked tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Atlantic rates rose to $61,500/day on Monday, up 43% or $18,750 from the previous day, according to Spark Commodities, a pricing assessment agency for LNG shipping. Qatar LNG, Saudi refinery, Israeli oil, gas fields down due to Mideast strikes Pacific rates rose to $41,000/day, up 45% or $12,750 from the previous day. [...]

JGB yields jump as Iran war raises inflation fears

March 3, 2026 6:23

TOKYO: Japanese government bond (JGB) yields jumped on Tuesday on fears that a prolonged US and Israeli war against Iran would boost energy prices and accelerate inflation globally. The benchmark 10-year JGB yield rose 6 basis points (bps) to 2.12%. The two-year yield climbed 3.5 bps to 1.25% and the five-year yield rose 5.5 bps to 1.585%. US Treasury yields shot higher on Monday after military strikes in Iran by the US and Israel, followed by counter-strikes by Tehran across the Middle East, sparked a jump in oil and gas prices and raised fears about escalating inflation. “The rise in US Treasury yields weighed on JGBs,” said Naoya Hasegawa, chief bond strategist at Okasan Securities. Japan, which relies heavily on energy imports, would be hit hard by increases in energy prices, raising bets that the Bank of Japan would have to hike interest rates early to counter inflation, some market players say. On Monday, BOJ Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino said market volatility would not prevent a rate increase, but he gave no hints on timing, saying the decision would depend on the inflation rate stabilising around the central bank’s 2% target. JGB yields fell sharply in the previous session in part because investors bought safe-haven assets in the wake of the Iran war. The Japanese government is scheduled to auction about 260 billion yen ($1.65 billion) worth of 10-year bonds later on Tuesday. [...]

China’s yuan bounces as central bank lifts midpoint by most in six months

March 3, 2026 6:07

SHANGHAI: China’s yuan rebounded versus the US dollar on Tuesday, ending two days of loss, after the central bank lifted its guidance the most in over six months in a move investors interpreted as an attempt to stabilise a market swayed by war in the Middle East. The US-Israel war against Iran spread with Israel retaliating against Hezbollah in Lebanon while Iran continued attacks on US interests in Gulf states. Prior to market open on Tuesday, the People’s Bank of China set its midpoint rate at 6.9088 a dollar, 148 pips or 0.21% firmer than its previous setting and the biggest one-day strengthening in percentage terms since August 25. The bank allows spot yuan to trade 2% either side of the midpoint each day. The midpoint is acting as a policy tool guiding market expectations, said chief financial market analyst Marco Sun at MUFG (China). “The yuan has already depreciated following the recent adjustment of the FX forward reserve requirement to zero, along with ongoing geopolitical noise, so the fixing will remain steady to anchor market expectations,” Sun said. The midpoint, however, was 272 pips weaker than a Reuters’ estimate of 6.8816. Both onshore and offshore yuan bounced after the guidance. Onshore yuan last fetched 6.8842 a dollar as of 0207 GMT, while its offshore counterpart traded at 6.8835. The central bank acted to rein in the fast-rising yuan last week by scrapping risk reserve requirements for some forward currency contracts, a move that would encourage dollar-buying as exporters feel the pinch from a stronger currency. [...]

Iron ore wobbles as investors weigh rising freight costs against falling demand

March 3, 2026 6:03

BEIJING: Iron ore prices wobbled on Tuesday, as investors weighed rising freight costs due to a widening Iran conflict choking shipments via the crucial Strait of Hormuz against falling demand amid production restrictions among Chinese steelmakers. An Iranian Revolutionary Guards senior official said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and Iran will fire on any ship trying to pass, Iranian media reported, sending oil prices and shipping costsrocketing higher. The most-traded iron ore contract on China’s Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) was flat at 748.5 yuan ($108.73) a metric ton, as of 0212 GMT. The benchmark April iron ore on the Singapore Exchange was down 0.41% at $98.85 a ton, as of 0202 GMT. “Right now, we are seeing an increase in freight costs which is affecting many markets,” said Tomas Gutierrez, head of data at consultancy Kallanish Commodities. Rising freight costs raised costs for iron ore and therefore aided ore prices, said analysts. However, hot metal output, typically a gauge of iron ore demand, is expected to fall due to production curbs during China’s annual parliamentary meeting starting March 5, keeping a lid on ore price upside. Some Chinese steel mills were required to cut output during the key meeting to ensure cleaner air quality. Swelling portside iron ore inventory, sitting at their record high, also suppressed ore prices. Other steelmaking ingredients were mixed with coking coal down 0.18% and coke nudging up 0.03%, respectively. Steel benchmarks on the Shanghai Futures Exchange lost ground. Rebar and wire rod dipped 0.42%, hot-rolled coil slid 0.4%, and stainless steel shed 0.49%. [...]

Palm rangbound as soft exports data offsets firmer rivals, crude

March 3, 2026 6:01

JAKARTA: Malaysian palm oil futures traded in a tight range on Tuesday, after two straight sessions of gains, supported by gains in rival edible oils in the Dalian and Chicago markets and rising crude prices, while weak exports data limited the upside. The benchmark palm oil contract for May delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange added 4 ringgit or 0.1% to 4,151 ringgit ($1,057.58) a metric ton by 0250 GMT. The contract traded between 4,131 and 4,166 ringgit in early deals. [...]

Chicago soy surges, tracking soyoil gains; wheat, corn also up

March 3, 2026 5:58

BEIJING: Chicago soybeans rose on Tuesday, supported by higher soyoil prices, which tracked gains in the crude oil market amid the ongoing war in the Middle East, while concerns over Chinese demand and competition from Brazil kept a lid on prices. Meanwhile, corn rose on brisk export demand, and wheat also gained, despite improving US crop weather and a well-supplied global market. [...]

Australian dollar gets backing from energy, yield buffers

March 3, 2026 5:51

SYDNEY: The Australian dollar was benefiting from a rare safe haven bid on Tuesday as the country’s energy abundance offset the impact of rising oil prices, while the chance of interest rate hikes at home provided yield support. The Aussie was 0.2% firmer at $0.7101, having been as low as $0.7033 at one stage on Monday. Resistance now lies at $0.7135 and the recent three-year peak of $0.71465. The currency had been sold early on Monday as a liquid proxy for global risk, but steadily recovered as investors recognised Australia was a net energy exporter, mainly through liquefied natural gas and coal. The contrast to Japan and the EU, both energy importers, saw the Aussie hit a 35-year top on the yen at 111.78 and a one-year high on the euro at 0.6076. It got an added boost when Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Michele Bullock said the board’s March policy meeting would be “live” for a possible hike in rates. Investors have tended to assume the RBA would wait for first-quarter inflation figures due in late April before deciding whether to raise the 3.85% cash rate in May. Bullock said she wanted to “dissuade” anyone from assuming that. Markets moved grudgingly to imply around a 28% chance of a quarter-point rise at the next meeting on March 17, while fully pricing a tightening for May. They also imply around a 75% of a further rise to 4.35% by year-end. “While RBA staff forecasts imply a need for at least one additional rate rise, the communications suggest the Board seems inclined to test that assessment against incoming data,” said Taylor Nugent, a senior economist at NAB. Figures on gross domestic product are due on Wednesday and there looks to be some upside rise to forecasts of 0.6% growth following data on net exports and government spending. “We expect the RBA to lift rates to 4.1% in May and then remain on hold until late 2027,” added Nugent. Bullock’s hawkish comments combined with a selloff in Treasuries to push Australian 10-year bond yields up 8 basis points to 4.714%, offering a hefty premium of 68 basis points over US debt. The New Zealand dollar had a rougher time as the country imports most of its oil, leaving the currency stuck at $0.5946 after losing 0.9% overnight to touch a five-week trough at $0.5917. [...]

Australian shares fall on widening Middle East conflict; banks limit losses

March 3, 2026 5:48

Australian shares fell on Tuesday as a broad sell-off due to the widening Middle East conflict hit markets, though a rebound in bank stocks helped limit losses. The S&P/ASX 200 index fell 0.4% to 9,162.1 by 2336 GMT. The benchmark closed flat on Monday. Markets turned risk-off as the widening US-Israeli conflict with Iran heightened global volatility and concerns over economic and financial impacts. Gold stocks dropped 3.2% after attaining record high levels in the previous session. The broader mining sub-index fell 1.2%. Evolution Mining eased 2.8%, while Northern Star Resources dropped 3.2%. The consumer discretionary sub-index dropped 1%, while staples fell 0.4%. Healthcare stocks eased 0.5%. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of Australia’s Governor Michele Bullock said an interest rate hike was possible this month if it was decided that inflation expectations were at risk of becoming unanchored. Bullock also cautioned that if a rise in global energy prices was prolonged, it could weigh on consumer demand and economic growth, putting upward pressure on inflation. Rate-sensitive financials stabilised, gaining 0.4%, after posting their worst session since November 18 on Monday. Top business lender National Australia Bank rose 1.1% to lead the “big four” lenders. ANZ rose 0.9%. Energy stocks rose 0.2%, after briefly reaching their highest levels since July 2024 earlier in the session, as oil and gas prices surged due to facility shutdowns and disrupted shipping routes in the Middle East. Woodside Energy gained 0.3%, while Santos edged up 0.1%. Technology stocks rose more than 1%, tracking Wall Street peers, as appetite for artificial intelligence-focused shares grew. WiseTech Global rose as much as 2.9%. Local shares of Life360 surged 3.2% after its fourth-quarter revenue beat estimates. In New Zealand, the benchmark S&P/NZX 50 index fell 0.2% to 13,626.91. [...]

Rupee records gain against US dollar

March 3, 2026 12:42

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At close, the local currency settled at 279.45, a gain of Re0.01 against the greenback. On Monday, the local unit closed at 279.46. Pakistan’s trade deficit significantly increased by 25% to $25.04 billion in the first eight months of the current fiscal year (8MFY26), as compared to the same period of the previous year, data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed on Tuesday. Internationally, the yen and euro were broadly lower on Tuesday as the widening Middle East conflict focused attention on countries ‌dependent on energy imports and how central banks may respond to inflation pressures. The US dollar benefited from safe-haven demand as the US and Israeli air war against Iran spilled out into neighboring countries. The euro steadied after sliding more than 1% as doubts swirled about when oil shipments from the region will be restored. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, traded at 98.49 after a 0.9% surge in the previous session. The euro edged up 0.07% to $1.1695. Euro sags, dollar gains as Iran war lifts energy prices The yen tacked on 0.09% to 157.2 per dollar after a 0.8% tumble in Monday’s session. Sterling ‌was little ⁠changed at $1.3407. Israel attacked Lebanon in response to strikes by Hezbollah, and Tehran kept up its missile and drone attacks on Gulf states. Qatar halted its production of liquefied natural gas on Monday, prompting precautionary shutdowns of oil ⁠and gas facilities across the Middle East. Europe and Japan are more exposed to higher energy costs than the US, which is a net energy exporter. Concerns that higher inflation will delay the Federal Reserve’s next cut in interest rates also boosted the dollar. A rate cut is ⁠no longer fully priced in until September, compared to previous expectations of July, based on pricing in the Fed funds futures market. Traders continue to price in two 25-basis-point cuts by year-end. Oil prices, a key indicator of currency parity, rose more than $4 on Tuesday, soaring for a third session as the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran widens, disrupting fuel shipments and heightening fears of further Middle East oil and gas supply disruption. Brent crude futures were up $4.94, or 6%, at $82.68 a barrel by 1028 GMT after touching their highest since July 2024 at $82.80. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $4.68, or 7%, to $75.91 after hitting its highest since June at $76.02. Inter-bank market rates for dollar on Tuesday BID Rs 279.45 OFFER Rs 279.65 Open-market movement In the open market, the PKR gained 13 paise for buying and remained unchanged for selling against USD, closing at 279.20 and 280.50, respectively. Against Euro, the PKR gained 1.34 rupee for buying and 2.14 rupees for selling, closing at 324.22 and 328.39, respectively. Against UAE Dirham, the PKR lost 8 paise for buying and 1 paisa for selling, closing at 75.63 and 76.77, respectively. Against Saudi Riyal, the PKR lost 2 paise for buying and gained 23 paise for selling, closing at 73.91 and 74.91, respectively. Open-market rates for dollar on Tuesday BID Rs 279.20 OFFER Rs 280.50 [...]

Global oil and gas shipping costs surge as Iran vows to close Strait of Hormuz

March 3, 2026 12:28

SINGAPORE: Supertanker costs in the Middle East have hit all-time highs, according to shipping data and industry sources on Tuesday, as the U.S.-Iran conflict intensifies with Tehran attacking ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping through the Strait between Iran and Oman, which carries around one-fifth of oil consumed globally as well as large quantities of liquefied natural gas, has ground to a near halt after vessels in the area were hit as Iran retaliated against U.S. and Israeli strikes. The disruption and fears of prolonged closure have caused oil and European natural gas prices to jump, with Brent crude futures up nearly 10% this week as the conflict triggered multiple oil and gas shutdowns in the Middle East. The benchmark freight rate for the very large crude carriers (VLCCs) used to ship 2 million barrels of oil from the Middle East to China, also known as TD3, rose to an all-time high of W419 on Monday on the Worldscale industry measure used to calculate freight rates, or $423,736 per day, LSEG data showed. The rate had doubled from Friday, extending gains from a six-year highhit last week, after the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran and killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei on Saturday. Iran has responded by attacking Gulf countries, prompting precautionary shutdowns at oil and gas facilities across the Middle East. An Iranian Revolutionary Guards senior official said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz was closed and Iran would fire on any ship trying to pass, Iranian media reported. Oil, gas prices soar as conflict escalates LNG shipping rates jump Daily freight rates for LNG tankers jumped more than 40% on Monday after Qatar halted production. Atlantic rates rose to $61,500 per day on Monday, up 43%, or $18,750, from Friday, according to Spark Commodities, a pricing assessment agency for LNG shipping. Pacific rates rose to $41,000 per day, up 45%, or $12,750, from Friday. Fraser Carson, principal analyst for global LNG at energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie, said spot daily LNG shipping rates could rise above $100,000 this week on tight supply. “Vessel availability for the rest of March is considered weak as cargo operators try to work through the backlog created by weather disruptions during February,” he said. “There will be very strong competition for any available vessels.” Until safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz can be assured, shipping will remain idle, Carson said. An oil shipbroker who declined to be named due to company policy said it was very difficult to assess shipping rates in the Gulf as several shipowners had suspended operations indefinitely. Oil, gas surge as Iran conflict disrupts Middle Eastern flows Meanwhile, bunker sales at Fujairah, a major bunkering port in the United Arab Emirates, have slowed as the conflict disrupted fuel supply, spurring a jump in prices and potentially shifting demand to other ports including Singapore. South Korean shipping firm Hyundai Glovis said on Tuesday it was preparing contingency plans including securing alternative routes and ports. South Korea’s maritime ministry issued a notice to South Korean shippers with vessels sailing in the Middle East, asking them to refrain from business operations in the region, an official told Reuters on Tuesday. [...]

Pakistan’s trade deficit rises 25% to $25bn in July-February

March 3, 2026 12:17

Pakistan’s trade deficit significantly increased by 25% to $25.04 billion in the first eight months of the current fiscal year (8MFY26), as compared to the same period of the previous year, data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed on Tuesday. The country’s trade balance, the gap between exports and imports, was recorded at a deficit of $20.04 billion in July-February of the previous fiscal year (8MFY25). The trade deficit expanded year-on-year (YoY) in the said period, driven by higher imports and a decrease in exports. Exports in 8MFY26 stood at $20.46 billion, down 7.3% against $22.07 billion recorded in the same period of FY25. Imports were recorded at $45.50 billion, up 8.1% against $42.11 billion in the same period last year. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s exports clocked in at $2.27 billion in February 2026, down 8.8% against $2.49 billion recorded in February 2025. On the other hand, imports stood at $5.25 billion in February 2026, down 1.6% against $5.34 billion recorded in the same period the previous year. In February 2026, the country’s trade deficit stood at $2.98 billion, up 4.6% against $2.85 billion in February 2025. On a monthly basis, Pakistan’s trade deficit increased by 8.4% against $2.75 billion recorded in January 2026. [...]

Sri Lankan shares drop most since 2022 as Middle East conflict fans energy shortage fears

March 3, 2026 12:12

COLOMBO/BENGALURU: Sri Lankan shares sank 5.4% on Tuesday, marking their worst single-day drop since the island nation’s 2022 financial crisis, amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following the conflict in Iran. The CSE All-Share index slid to 22,443.38, marking its worst day since April 2022. The Colombo Stock Exchange was closed for a local holiday on Monday, with markets having posted a 0.2% drop last week. Long queues have formed at fuel stations across the island nation as the Middle East conflict has stoked fears of oil shortages, but authorities have assured that the island nation has enough stocks for about 30 days. The conflict has pushed Brent prices past the $80 mark as the widening U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran and threats to shipping via the Strait of Hormuz heightened fears of supply disruptions from the key Middle East producing region. Higher oil prices would hurt Sri Lanka’s trade balance, which meets most of its fuel requirements through imports. “The drop is very much because of the Iran strikes. We are seeing a bigger impact because Sri Lanka is sensitive to external shocks,” said Raynal Wickremeratne, Co-head of Research at Softlogic Stockbrokers. The nation of 22 million people is clawing its way back from a crisis brought about by a record shortfall of dollars in 2022, supported by a $2.9 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund. Sri Lanka exports about 50%-52% of its famed Ceylon Tea to the Middle East, which earned $1.5 billion last year. Remittances from nearly a million Sri Lankans working in the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, also funnelled about $8 billion into the island nation’s foreign reserves in 2025. Most sectors closed in the red on Tuesday, with real estate stocks dropping 8.9% and consumer discretionary stocks posting a 7.5% decline. Tuesday’s decline also pushed the index to a year-to-date loss of 0.8%. [...]

Oil prices keep climbing as expanding conflict heightens supply risks

March 3, 2026 12:09

LONDON: Crude oil benchmarks rose more than $4 on Tuesday, soaring for a third session as the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran widens, disrupting fuel shipments and heightening fears of further Middle East oil and gas supply disruption. Brent crude futures were up $4.94, or 6%, at $82.68 a barrel by 1028 GMT after touching their highest since July 2024 at $82.80. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $4.68, or 7%, to $75.91 after hitting its highest since June at $76.02. The U.S. and Israeli air war against Iran has widened since Israel’s first attacks on Saturday, with Israel attacking Lebanon and Iran responding with strikes against energy infrastructure in Gulf countries and tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas typically passes. Tankers and container ships are avoiding the waterway after insurers cancelled coverage for vessels and global oil and gas shipping rates soared. Concerns increased after Iranian media reported on Monday that a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards official said the Strait of Hormuz is closed and warned that Iran will fire on any ship trying to pass. “While there are concerns about oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a greater risk to the market would be Iran targeting additional energy infrastructure in the region. This could lead to more prolonged outages,” ING analysts said in a note. Stocks slide as Middle East conflict fans inflation fears United Arab Emirates authorities are dealing with a serious fire at Fujairah port, state media said on Tuesday. Since the start of attacks across the region, oil and gas infrastructure in several countries has been shut down because of damage or as a precautionary measure. Qatar has stopped liquefied natural gas production, Israel has stopped production at some gas fields, Saudi Arabia shut its biggest refinery and output in Iraqi Kurdistan has virtually ceased. In gas markets, benchmark Dutch contracts, British gas prices and European and Asian LNG prices all jumped. Analysts expect oil prices to remain elevated over the coming days while markets focus on the impact of the escalating conflict. Bernstein on Monday raised its 2026 Brent oil price assumption to $80 a barrel from $65 but said that prices could reach $120-$150 in an extreme case of prolonged conflict. Refined product futures are also gaining because Middle East processing facilities are at risk. U.S. ultra-low-sulfur diesel futures were up more than 11% at $3.22 a gallon after reaching a two-year high on Monday. Gasoline futures were up 5% at $2.49 a gallon. European gasoil futures gained 13% to $997.80 a metric ton after jumping 18% on Monday. [...]

After record crash, PSX rebounds sharply as KSE-100 surges over 5,100 points

March 3, 2026 10:37

A day after observing a massive selloff that saw the largest single-session decline in the bourse’s history, buying momentum returned to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), with the benchmark KSE-100 Index gaining over 5,100 points on Tuesday. The stock market observed heightened volatility at the open, with the benchmark index initially dipping sharply toward the intraday low of 151,258.85 before witnessing aggressive buying interest. During the mid-session, the market moved in a range-bound pattern, moving between the 153,000 and 154,500 levels as participants consolidated gains. However, buying momentum picked up in the final hours of the trading session. The KSE-100 surged past the 156,000 mark and hit an intraday high of 158,217.01 before settling slightly lower by the end. At close, the benchmark index settled at 157,132.09, a gain of 5,159.10 points or 3.39%. On Monday, PSX suffered one of the most dramatic trading days in its history as mounting geopolitical tensions and sharp global risk aversion sparked a massive selloff, wiping out vast amounts of market value and shaking investor confidence nationwide. By the closing bell, the KSE-100 had fallen a staggering 16,089.17 points, i.e. 9.57%, settling at 151,973.00, marking the largest single-day point decline on record. Internationally, stocks resumed their selloff and the dollar strengthened in early Asian trading on Tuesday as investors considered the implications ‌of US and Israeli strikes on Iran on energy prices and the global economy. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 1% to extend losses for a second day, led by a 2.5% tumble in Korean shares, while Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 slumped 0.8%. S&P 500 e-mini futures were down 0.2%. Stocks on Wall Street stabilised after a volatile session on Monday, which saw the S&P 500 rally from an early selloff to close flat and the Nasdaq Composite climb 0.4%, as investors bought the dip in markets after the conflict in the Middle East spilt over into Lebanon. With no end to hostilities in sight, an official from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to marine traffic and the country will fire on any ship trying to pass. Oil and gas prices jumped on Monday, with Brent crude futures surging as much as 13% to $82.37 a barrel, the highest since January 2025, before settling up 7.1% at $78.07 ‌a ⁠barrel. In natural gas markets, benchmark European and Asian LNG prices leapt by around 40% on Monday. The surge in energy prices complicates the Federal Reserve’s efforts to keep inflation under control, with policymakers already showing signs of division around the impact of artificial intelligence on the U.S. economy. Meanwhile, the Pakistani rupee registered a marginal gain against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Tuesday. At close, the local currency settled at 279.45, a gain of Re0.01 against the greenback. Volume on the all-share index declined to 770.69 million from 809.55 million recorded in the previous close. The value of shares decreased to Rs44.36 billion from Rs48.51 billion in the previous session. K-Electric Ltd. was the volume leader with 74.40 million shares, followed by WorldCall Telecom with 50.04 million shares, and Pak Elektron with 38.23 million shares. Shares of 480 companies were traded on Tuesday, of which 213 registered an increase, 228 recorded a fall, and 39 remained unchanged. [...]

Gold per tola sheds Rs13,900 in Pakistan

March 3, 2026 10:26

Gold prices in Pakistan decreased on Tuesday in line with their loss in the international market. In the local market, gold price per tola reached Rs549,962 after a drop of Rs13,900 during the day. Similarly, 10-gram gold was sold at Rs471,503 after it decreased by Rs11,917, according to rates shared by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA). On Monday, gold price per tola reached Rs563,862 after a gain of Rs13,300 during the day. The international rate of gold was down by $139 to reach $5,272 per ounce (with a premium of $20). Meanwhile, the price of silver decreased by Rs1,146 to reach Rs8,904 per tola. [...]

Pakistan’s Citi Pharma eyes Rs1–2bn IPO for veterinary subsidiary

March 3, 2026 8:54

Citi Pharma Limited, one of Pakistan’s leading pharmaceutical companies, has approved the launch of an initial public offering (IPO) for its wholly owned subsidiary, Citi Veterinary Pharma Limited. The pharma disclosed the development, which is a part of the company’s strategy to diversify its revenue streams, in a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday. “The Board of Directors of Citi Pharma Limited has approved the initiation of the IPO of Citi Pharma’s wholly owned subsidiary, Citi Veterinary Pharma Limited (CVPL),” read the notice. CVPL has been established as a dedicated entity focused towards the manufacturing of veterinary focused API’s and pharmaceutical products for the consumption of the local market. “In this regard, the Board has approved the appointment of K-Trade Securities Limited as the consultant to issue and list the company at the earliest,” it said. Citi Pharma shared that it plans to raise between Rs1 and Rs2 billion through the IPO. “This marks a significant milestone for Citi Pharma Limited in increasing its revenue sources through diversification in a pharma-related field. It may also be noted that Citi Pharma plans to generate approximately Rs 1.50 billion in revenue through the trading of veterinary products in FY26,” the pharma added. Last month, CPHL formally entered Pakistan’s real estate sector after securing Securities and Exchange Commission (SECP) approval to establish a wholly owned REIT management subsidiary, marking a strategic diversification beyond its core pharmaceutical business. CPHL shared that under the proposed platform of CITI REIT Management Company (Private) Limited, the company plans to undertake three major real estate development projects. “The first project is envisaged to be developed at Hali Road, Lahore, followed by a second project on Citi Pharma Limited’s land situated at Khayaban-e-Zafar, Lahore and a third project on the company’s land located near Islamabad international airport,” said the company. [...]

Qatar leads Gulf declines on LNG halt, Middle East tensions

March 3, 2026 8:51

European stocks slide, gas prices soar on Iran war

March 3, 2026 8:48

Turkiye inflation rose slightly to 31.5% in February

March 3, 2026 8:45

South African rand steady as geopolitical tensions drive safe-haven demand

March 3, 2026 7:17

Shanghai stocks retreat from decade high; HK extends losses on Mideast conflict

March 3, 2026 7:10

Daily LNG freight rates jump over 40% amid Mideast strikes, Spark Commodities says

March 3, 2026 6:31

JGB yields jump as Iran war raises inflation fears

March 3, 2026 6:23

War on Iran aimed at bringing Israeli influence to Pakistan’s border: Asif

March 3, 2026 9:39

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East, labelling Zionism a “threat to humanity” and alleging a co-ordinated agenda to destabilise Pakistan by extending Israeli influence to its borders. In a statement on his social media account, he said the agenda of the war on Iran includes bringing Israel’s influence up to Pakistan’s doorstep. Expanding on his stance, the minister stated that Zionist ideology has held the world’s economic systems and major powers “hostage” for a century. He linked every major catastrophe in the Islamic world since the establishment of Israel to this influence. “Zionism is a threat to humanity. From the establishment of Israel on the land of Palestine until today, every catastrophe that has befallen the Islamic world, every war imposed upon it, will show the direct or indirect hand of Zionist ideology and the state. Zionism has controlled the world’s economic system for a century. Major powers are held hostage by Zionism,” the minister said. Addressing the regional crisis, the defence minister asserted that the war imposed on Iran — despite Tehran’s readiness for a diplomatic agreement — is part of a broader Zionist-orchestrated plan to undermine Pakistan’s sovereignty. He said that the current hostilities aim to establish a “single-point agenda” involving neighbouring states to create a hostile environment on all sides of Pakistan’s borders. Asif warned that the ultimate goal of this “conspiracy” is to compromise Pakistan’s security and reduce the country to a “vassal state.” “Despite Iran’s readiness for agreement, a war has been imposed upon them, and its agenda, orchestrated by the Zionists, includes bringing Israel’s influence right up to Pakistan’s border. The joint single point agenda of Afghanistan, Iran, and India will then be enmity towards Pakistan, making our borders insecure, surrounding us with enemies from all sides, and turning Pakistan into a vassal state,” he added. He urged the 250 million citizens of Pakistan to set aside political and religious differences to understand the intentions of “eternal enemies.” The defence minister paid tribute to the nation’s military strength and its status as a nuclear power, credits he attributed to the bravery of martyrs and the political will of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. He saluted the courage of Nawaz Sharif for conducting the nuclear tests that established Pakistan’s deterrence. Asif noted that the “might of our armed forces is recognised worldwide,” serving as the primary shield for the country’s sovereignty during these challenging times. The minister called for unity within the Islamic world to recognise common threats. He expressed solidarity with the cause of a free Palestine and prayed for the continued strength and safety of Pakistan and its protectors. [...]

US Marines fired on protesters storming consulate in Karachi, officials say: Reuters

March 3, 2026 9:38

WASHINGTON: US Marines opened fire on demonstrators during the storming of the Karachi consulate over the weekend, two US officials said on Monday—a rare use of force at a diplomatic post that could sharply escalate tensions in the country amid widespread protests over the killing of Iran’s leader. Ten people were killed on Sunday when protesters breached the compound’s outer wall after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in strikes on Iran. Citing initial information, the two US officials said it was unclear whether rounds fired by Marines struck or killed anyone. They also did not know whether shots were also fired by others protecting the mission, including private security guards and local police. This would mark the first confirmation by US officials that Marines were involved in firing at the protestors. A provincial government spokesman, Sukhdev Assardas Hemnani, said “security” personnel had opened fire, without specifying their affiliation. Israel, US carry out attacks on Iran; Tehran launches retaliatory strikes on regional bases Daily security operations at US diplomatic missions are often carried out by private contractors and local forces, and the involvement of Marines in the incident underscores how seriously the consulate viewed the threat. Pakistan is home to the world’s second-largest Shia community after Iran. On Monday, Pakistan banned large gatherings nationwide after the protests over the strikes on Iran spread, with 26 people reported dead across the country. US embassy, consulates suspend visa services amid protests in Pakistan Protesters on Sunday chanted “Death to America! Death to Israel!” outside the consulate, where Reuters reporters heard gunfire and saw tear gas fired in surrounding streets. Video on social media appeared to show at least one protester firing a weapon toward the consulate and bloodied demonstrators fleeing as shots rang out. A Karachi police official told Reuters that the shots were fired from inside the consulate premises. The US Marines referred questions to the US military, which in turn referred questions to the State Department. Netanyahu says US and Israel’s war against Iran will not be an endless one The State Department did not respond to a request for comment. Shia community leaders have called for more protests in Lahore and Karachi despite the nationwide ban on public gatherings. The US embassy in Pakistan is in the capital, Islamabad, and there are two additional consulates in Peshawar and Lahore. At least 10 dead, 38 injured outside US consulate in Karachi Roads leading to the US consulate in Karachi were blocked off with a heavy police presence in the area. Similar measures were in place around US missions in Lahore and Islamabad. [...]

After record crash, PSX rebounds sharply as KSE-100 surges over 5,100 points

March 3, 2026 9:19

China urges resumption of talks on Iran nuclear issue

March 3, 2026 9:04

BEIJING: China respects Iran’s “legitimate right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy,” a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday, while urging a stop to US military actions in favour of returning to talks and negotiations. US strikes on Iran “during ongoing negotiations … violate international law and basic principles of international relations,” ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said during a regular press briefing. Trump seeks to justify Iran war, but stated objectives shift “The Iran nuclear issue should eventually return to the track of political and diplomatic settlement,” Mao said. [...]

Drone hits fuel tank at Oman’s Duqm port

March 3, 2026 8:56

A fuel tank at Oman’s Duqm commercial port was hit on Tuesday when the facility came under attack from several unmanned aircraft, the state news agency said, citing a security source, on the fourth day of US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which has responded by targeting neighbouring countries. The attack comes a day after Qatar halted its production of liquefied natural gas - about a fifth of global supply - while Saudi Arabia suspended production at its largest domestic refinery. Major Israeli gas fields, including Leviathan, were offline, and most output in the Iraqi Kurdish region had been shut down as Iran continued to target infrastructure, including energy facilities, ports and airports, over recent days. Oman had been acting as mediator in talks between the US and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear programme before the attacks on Iran. Smoke rising from US embassy in Kuwait City The resulting damage at Duqm was contained and no casualties were recorded, Oman’s news agency added. Duqm had also been targeted by two drones on Sunday, wounding one worker. Oman had been spared from attacks on Saturday, the day the US and Israel launched their attack. The Abu Dhabi government’s media office said on Monday a fire broke out after the Musaffah fuel tank terminal was targeted by a drone, without impacting its operations. US embassy in Riyadh hit by drones, Saudi defence ministry says Abu Dhabi state oil giant ADNOC operates a facility in Musaffah from which fuels are transported by trucks and through a 1,600-kilometre (994 miles) pipeline network. [...]

Pakistan’s Citi Pharma eyes Rs1–2bn IPO for veterinary subsidiary

March 3, 2026 8:54

Qatar leads Gulf declines on LNG halt, Middle East tensions

March 3, 2026 8:51

European stocks slide, gas prices soar on Iran war

March 3, 2026 8:48

Turkiye inflation rose slightly to 31.5% in February

March 3, 2026 8:45

‘Blood Moon’ to be visible in Pakistan today

March 3, 2026 7:29

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has announced that a total lunar eclipse — the first of 2026 — will occur on Tuesday (today). While the full “Blood Moon” phenomenon will be observable in Pakistan, it will also be visible across various continents at the time of moonrise. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its full shadow across the lunar surface. During the stage of “totality,” the Moon does not disappear into darkness; instead, it assumes a deep reddish-orange hue, a phenomenon popularly known as a “Blood Moon.” READ MORE: ‘Beaver blood moon’ offers world’s last total lunar eclipse until 2025 According to a press release issued by the PMD’s Climate Data Processing Centre, the celestial event will be visible from eastern Europe, Asia, Australia, North and South America, as well as the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. The PMD has outlined the following schedule for the eclipse in Pakistan Standard Time: Penumbral eclipse begins: 13:44 PST Partial eclipse begins: 14:50 PST Total eclipse begins: 16:05 PST Maximum eclipse: 16:34 PST Total eclipse ends: 17:03 PST Partial eclipse ends: 18:17 PST Penumbral eclipse ends: 19:23 PST Skywatchers are advised to find a clear view of the eastern horizon at moonrise for the best viewing experience. Earliar, speaking to Business Recorder digital, PMD Deputy Director (Climate Data Processing Centre) Asif Hussain had said the Blood Moon isn’t a scientific term. However, he had mentioned that the moon turns reddish during the total eclipse. [...]

South African rand steady as geopolitical tensions drive safe-haven demand

March 3, 2026 7:17

Russian drones damage port infrastructure in Ukraine’s Odesa region, governor says

March 3, 2026 7:15

A Russian drone attack damaged port and transport infrastructure facilities overnight in Ukraine’s southern Odesa region on the Black Sea, the regional governor said on Tuesday. Dry cargo warehouse and road containers were damaged in the attack, Governor Oleh Kiper said on Telegram. He said there were no injuries. [...]

Air France cancels Middle East flights until Thursday

March 3, 2026 7:14

Air France has cancelled its flights to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai, and Riyadh until Thursday, inclusive, the airline said in a statement on Tuesday, citing security risks due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Thousands of flights cancelled as conflict upends global air travel It said the safety of its customers and crew was a top priority and that it will assess the situation before resuming flights. [...]

Shanghai stocks retreat from decade high; HK extends losses on Mideast conflict

March 3, 2026 7:10

US embassy, consulates suspend visa services amid protests in Pakistan

March 3, 2026 7:05

Due to the current security situation and ongoing protests, the US Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi have cancelled all visa appointments through Friday, March 6. The US Embassy Islamabad announced this in a statement on its X account, as security remains high around diplomatic enclaves and consulates to prevent any untoward situation. The development comes after at least 10 people were killed and several others injured on Sunday in violent clashes that erupted between protesters and law enforcement personnel outside the US Consulate in Karachi, hours after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the opening salvo of a massive US and Israeli attack. READ MORE: At least 10 dead, 38 injured outside US consulate in Karachi The confrontation began when demonstrators attempted to enter the consulate premises, prompting security forces to respond, according to Rescue 1122 Sindh. Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei’s death early Sunday, hours after US President Donald Trump declared that Khamenei died in the conflict that had defined his rule of Iran, and a senior Israeli official told Reuters his body had been found following US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday said peaceful protest is everyone’s right but vandalism under the guise of protest will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Naqvi had said this in a statement during his visit to various areas of Islamabad to review the law and order situation. During his visit to the Red Zone, Diplomatic Enclave, and other key locations, the interior minister had inspected security arrangements and issued directives to ensure foolproof security within the Diplomatic Enclave. He had emphasised that security arrangements must be comprehensive and complete in every respect, noting that the law will take its course against those who disrupt daily life. A day ago, the US Embassy in Islamabad issued a security alert amid ongoing demonstrations at consulates in different cities, while also cancelling appointments for US visas and American Citizen Services for Monday. In an official statement, the embassy confirmed it was monitoring reports of demonstrations at the US Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi, as well as calls for additional gatherings near the US Embassy Islamabad and the US Consulate General Peshawar. “We advise US citizens in Pakistan to monitor local news, observe good personal security practices, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding large crowds, and ensuring your STEP registration is up to date,” the embassy stated. [...]

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... [...]

Savannah Guthrie continues to receive support from Meghan Markle's close friend

March 3, 2026 9:32

Savannah Guthrie said "we feel the love and prayers from our neighbors"Meghan Markle’s close friend has continued to extend support to US TV anchor Savannah Guthrie following the abduction of her mother Nancy.Meghan’s friend supported Savannah after the Today show host and her sister... [...]

Global oil, gas shipping costs soar as Iran warns of Strait of Hormuz closure

March 3, 2026 9:20

Global oil, gas shipping costs soar as Iran warns of Strait of Hormuz closureGlobal oil and gas shipping rates have surged to record high in the midst of the Middle East crisis as Iran threatened to close the major chokepoint Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. Shipping through Strait of Hormuz holds... [...]

Cristiano Ronaldo flees Saudi: â‚¬61m private jet hits Madrid amid Middle East turmoil

March 3, 2026 9:11

Cristiano Ronaldo flees Saudi: €61m private jet hits Madrid amid Middle East turmoilCristiano Ronaldo's luxury €61 million private jet left Saudi Arabia in the middle of the night as regional tensions reached a boiling point following a confirmed drone strike on the U.S. Embassy in... [...]

From aspirin to cream: White House links President Trump's neck rash to 'preventative' skin treatment

March 3, 2026 6:23

From aspirin to skin cream: White House links President Trump’s neck rash to ‘preventative’ skin treatmentOn Monday, during the Medal of Honor Ceremony, Donald Trump was seen with a rash on the side of his neck, which sparked speculation about the president’s current state... [...]

British Columbia daylight saving ends as province adopts permanent time

March 3, 2026 5:16

Daylight saving changes will soon be a thing of the past in the Canadian province of British Columbia.BC Premier David Eby announced on Monday that this Sunday will be the last time most British Columbians adjust their clocks for the twice yearly time change. The province will move to permanent... [...]

Kim Jong Un's future under speculation: could his daughter lead North Korea?

March 3, 2026 3:55

Speculation is growing over whether Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, could one day lead North Korea.The debate intensified after South Korea’s intelligence agency told lawmakers it believes Kim Jong Un has selected his daughter as his heir and that she has been seen offering... [...]

Nancy Mace under investigation by House Ethics Panel for alleged overcharges

March 3, 2026 3:37

Nancy Mace is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee over allegations that she improperly benefited from a congressional housing reimbursement program.According to a report from the Office of Congressional Conduct, the South Carolina Republican sought and received about $9,500 beyond... [...]

Lauren Boebert gets yelled at by Hillary Clinton over leaked photo during Epstein deposition

March 3, 2026 3:10

Newly released footage from Hillary Clinton’s deposition before the House Oversight Committee shows a tense exchange involving Rep. Lauren Boebert during questioning about Jeffrey Epstein.According to the footage, reported by The Associated Press Clinton’s legal team interrupted the... [...]

Is it a full moon tonight? NASA says blood moon will light up Canada

March 3, 2026 2:47

Canadians looking up at the sky overnight will be able to witness a dramatic total lunar eclipse, according to NASA.According to the space agency, a total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth moves between the sun and the moon, casting a large shadow across the lunar surface. NASA says this shadow... [...]

US Embassy in Riyadh hit by drones as fire breaks out in diplomatic quarter

March 3, 2026 2:29

The United States Embassy in Riyadh was struck by two drones early Tuesday, causing a limited fire and minor material damage, according to the Saudi Ministry of Defence.In a statement, the ministry said the attack on the Riyadh diplomatic compound resulted in “minor material damage”... [...]

US tariff lawsuits returned to trade court for further review as legal battle intensifies

March 2, 2026 8:38

US tariff lawsuits returned to trade court for further review as legal battle intensifiesA U.S. appeals court on Monday, March 2, 2026, returned the lawsuits that led to most of President Donald Trump's tariffs being struck ‌down to the U.S. Court of International Trade, which could... [...]

Savannah Guthrie makes a powerful message as Nancy's missing marks month

March 2, 2026 7:50

Savannah Guthrie makes rare appearance at Nancy's homeSavannah Guthrie, who is devastated over her mother Nancy's disappearance, has arrived at her home near Tucson – in a rare appearance – as her mom has been missing for over a month.Outside the house, the Today anchor viewed the... [...]

Elon Musk's SpaceX to launch Direct-to-Cell Starlink satellites in 2027

March 2, 2026 6:59

Elon Musk’s SpaceX to launch Direct-to-Cell Starlink satellites in 2027Elon Musk's Starlink announced that it's launching new 'direct-to-cell' satellites in 2027.Starlink said Monday that it plans to begin launching next year its second generation of satellites that will allow... [...]

David Beckham, Victoria's fairytale marriage hanging by thread?

March 2, 2026 6:35

David Beckham, Victoria's fairytale marriage hanging by threadDavid Beckham and Victoria Beckham's 26 years of marriage is reportedly in crisis amid rift with eldest son Brooklyn.Insiders have revealed that the Beckham empire is crumbling as David chooses son Brooklyn over wife Victoria, according... [...]

UK: Scotland becomes first country to legalize water cremations

March 2, 2026 6:27

UK: Scotland becomes first country to legalize water cremationsNow funeral or burial rituals would be performed in a different way in Britain.UK has introduced an alternative method for burial or funeral rituals, as Scotland has become the first country in Britain to introduce a cremation method... [...]

وزیراعظم شہباز شریف سے پاکستان پیپلزپارٹی کے وفد کی ملاقات

March 3, 2026 7:03

---فائل فوٹو وزیرِ اعظم شہباز شریف سے پاکستان پیپلز پارٹی کے وفد نے ملاقات کی ہے۔ذرائع کے مطابق ملاقات میں ملک کی مجموعی سیاسی صورتِ... [...]

کراچی میں امریکی قونصلیٹ پر دھاوا بولنے والے مظاہرین پر میرینز نے فائرنگ کی: امریکی حکام

March 3, 2026 7:03

—فائل فوٹوامریکی حکام نے کہا ہے کہ کراچی میں قونصلیٹ پر دھاوا بولنے والے مظاہرین پر امریکی اہلکاروں نے فائرنگ کی۔خبر ایجنسی سے... [...]

آپریشن غضب للحق جاری، افغان صوبے ننگرہار میں خوگانی بیس تباہ

March 3, 2026 7:03

---فائل فوٹوآپریشن غضب للحق کے تحت افغان طالبان اور فتنہ الخوارج کے خلاف افواجِ پاکستان کی زمینی اور فضائی تابڑ توڑ کارروائیاں جاری... [...]

توشہ خانہ جعلی رسید کیس: بانیٔ پی ٹی آئی اور بشریٰ بی بی کی ضمانت منظور، حکمنامہ جاری

March 3, 2026 6:03

---فائل فوٹو اسلام آباد کی ڈسٹرکٹ اینڈ سیشن کورٹ نے توشہ خانہ جعلی رسیدوں کے کیس میں بانئ پی ٹی آئی اور بشریٰ بی بی کی ضمانت منظور ہونے... [...]

پاکستان سے امارات، بحرین، کویت، قطر و دیگر مشرق وسطیٰ کے ممالک کی 116 پروازیں منسوخ

March 3, 2026 6:03

—فائل فوٹوپاکستان سے آج یو اے ای، بحرین، کویت، قطر سمیت دیگر مشرقِ وسطیٰ کے ممالک کی 116 پروازیں منسوخ کر دی گئیں۔ذرائع کے مطابق کراچی... [...]

فروری کی برآمدات جنوری کے مقابلے 25 فیصد کم رہیں: ادارۂ شماریات

March 3, 2026 6:03

—فائل فوٹوادارۂ شماریات کے اعداد و شمار کے مطابق گزشتہ ماہ فروری کی برآمدات جنوری کے مقابلے 25 فیصد کم رہیں۔ادارۂ شماریات پاکستان... [...]

میرے خیال میں یہ جنگ پھیلتی چلی جائے گی، پاکستانی قوم ہوشیار رہے، شیخ رشید

March 3, 2026 5:03

شیخ رشید— فائل فوٹوسابق وفاقی وزیر شیخ رشید احمد نے کہا ہے کہ میرے خیال میں یہ جنگ پھیلتی چلی جائے گی، پاکستانی قوم ہوشیار... [...]

لاہور: معروف سپاری کا تمام اسٹاک مارکیٹ سے ضبط

March 3, 2026 5:03

—فائل فوٹولاہور میں معروف سپاری کا تمام اسٹاک مارکیٹ سے ضبط کر لیا گیا۔ترجمان پنجاب فوڈ اتھارٹی کے مطابق پنجاب بھر سے 1 ہزار 158 ... [...]

ایران پر مسلط جنگ کا ایجنڈا اسرائیلی اثر کو پاکستان کی سرحد تک لانا ہے: خواجہ محمد آصف

March 3, 2026 5:03

وزیرِ دفاع خواجہ محمد آصف نے کہا ہے کہ صہیونیت انسانیت کے لیے خطرہ ہے، ایران پر جنگ مسلط کی گئی، جس کا ایجنڈا اسرائیلی اثر کو... [...]

پشاور: طورخم بارڈر بند ہونے پر غیر قانونی مقیم افغانیوں کیخلاف کریک ڈاؤن عارضی طور پر روک دیا گیا

March 3, 2026 5:03

—فائل فوٹوطور خم بارڈر بند ہونے پر پشاور میں غیر قانونی مقیم افغان مہاجرین کے خلاف کریک ڈاؤن روک دیا گیا۔سرکاری ذرائع کے مطابق سرحد... [...]

کراچی: سیکیورٹی وجوہات پر کئی سڑکیں آج بھی بند، شہریوں کو شدید مشکلات کا سامنا

March 3, 2026 4:03

----فائل فوٹو کراچی کے کئی علاقوں میں سیکیورٹی خدشات کے پیشِ نظر متعدد سڑکیں اور شاہراہیں کنٹینرز اور دیگر رکاوٹیں لگا کر بند کر دی... [...]

رواں سال کا پہلا مکمل چاند گرہن آج ہو گا

March 3, 2026 1:03

رواں سال کا پہلا مکمل چاند گرہن آج ہو گا، پاکستان میں چاند گرہن کا آغاز دوپہر 1 بجکر 44 منٹ پر ہوگا۔محکمہ موسمیات کے مطابق پاکستان... [...]

پاکستان افغانستان میں اندھا دھند اہداف کو نشانہ نہیں بنا رہا، سینئر سیکیورٹی عہدیدار

March 2, 2026 6:03

فائل فوٹوسینئر سیکیورٹی عہدیدار نے کہا ہے کہ صورتحال پیچیدہ ہونے کے باعث فوج کو کردار ادا کرنا پڑا، پاکستان افغانستان میں اندھا دھند... [...]

پی ایم ڈی سی کی جانب سے اخلاقیات اور مریضوں کے تحفظ کیلئے تاریخی اصلاحات کا نفاذ

March 2, 2026 6:03

فوٹو: فائلمریضوں کے تحفظ اور پیشہ ورانہ احتساب کے فروغ کی جانب ایک اہم پیش رفت کرتے ہوئے پاکستان میڈیکل اینڈ ڈینٹل کونسل نے ملک بھر... [...]

وزیراعظم کا کویت کے ولی عہد سے ٹیلیفونک رابطہ، حملوں سے جانی نقصان پر اظہار افسوس

March 2, 2026 6:03

فائل فوٹو۔وزیراعظم شہباز شریف نے کویت کے ولی عہد شیخ صباح الخالد الصباح سے ٹیلی فونک رابطہ کیا۔ اسلام آباد سے جاری اعلامیہ کے مطابق... [...]

اسرائیل میں موجود امریکی شہریوں کے بحفاظت انخلاء کی ضمانت نہیں دے سکتے: امریکی سفارت خانہ

March 3, 2026 8:03

— فائل فوٹوامریکی سفارت خانے کا کہنا ہے کہ اسرائیل میں موجود امریکی شہریوں کے بحفاظت انخلاء کی ضمانت نہیں دے سکتے۔امریکی و اسرائیلی... [...]

مکہ اور مدینہ سے ایرانی شہریوں کے انخلاء کا عمل شروع

March 3, 2026 8:03

—تصویر بشکریہ غیر ملکی میڈیامکہ مکرمہ اور مدینہ منورہ میں موجود ایرانی شہریوں کے انخلاء کا عمل شروع ہو گیا ہے۔ایرانی میڈیا کے... [...]

فرانس کا قبرص کو دفاعی نظام بھیجنے کا اعلان

March 3, 2026 8:03

—فائل فوٹوفرانس نے قبرص کو دفاعی نظام بھیجنے کا اعلان کر دیا۔قبرص سرکاری خبر ایجنسی کے مطابق فرانس قبرص کو اینٹی میزائل اور اینٹی... [...]

چین کا اسرائیل ایران جنگ فوری روکنے کا مطالبہ

March 3, 2026 8:03

— فائل فوٹوچین نے اسرائیل ایران جنگ فوری روکنے کا مطالبہ کردیا۔ترجمان چینی وزارتِ خارجہ کا کہنا ہے کہ ایران کے خلاف فوجی آپریشن فوری... [...]

ریاض میں امریکی سفارتخانے پر حملے کے بعد ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ کا مؤقف تبدیل، زمینی فوج نہ بھیجنے کا اشارہ

March 3, 2026 8:03

فوٹوز بشکریہ بین الاقوامی میڈیا امریکی صدر ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ نے سعودی عرب کے دارالحکومت ریاض میں امریکی سفارتخانے پر حملے اور امریکی... [...]

ایران نے خلیجی ممالک پر 450 میزائلوں، 1 ہزار 140 ڈرونز سے حملے کیے

March 3, 2026 7:03

فوٹو بشکریہ غیر ملکی میڈیاعرب میڈیا نے بتایا ہے کہ ایران کی جانب سے خلیجی ممالک پر 450 میزائلوں اور 1 ہزار 140 ڈرونز سے حملے کیے... [...]

ٹرمپ نے ایران میں رجیم چینج کی کوشش جاری رکھی تو تیسری عالمی جنگ یقینی ہے: دمتری میدویدیف

March 3, 2026 7:03

دمتری میدویدیف — تصویر بشکریہ عالمی میڈیاروسی سیکیورٹی کونسل کے نائب چیئرمین دمتری میدویدیف کا کہنا ہے کہ امریکی صدر نے ایران پر... [...]

اسرائیل کے 3 فوجی اڈوں کو نشانہ بنایا ہے: حزب اللّٰہ

March 3, 2026 7:03

—فائل فوٹولبنان کی مزاحمتی تنظیم حزب اللّٰہ نے کہا ہے کہ اسرائیل کی مجرمانہ جارحیت پر شمالی اسرائیل میں 3 اسرائیلی فوجی اڈوں کو... [...]

افسوس برطانیہ کے ساتھ تعلقات پہلے جیسے نہیں رہے: صدر ٹرمپ

March 3, 2026 7:03

---فائل فوٹوامریکی صدر ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ نے کہا ہے کہ افسوس ہے کہ برطانیہ کے ساتھ امریکا کے تعلقات پہلے جیسے مضبوط نہیں رہے۔ برطانوی اخبار کو... [...]

ایلون مسک کی کمپنی ’ایکس اے آئی‘ قرض قبل از وقت ادا کرنے کیلئے کیا حکمتِ عملی اپنا رہی ہے؟

March 3, 2026 7:03

---فائل فوٹو امریکی ارب پتی شخصیت ایلون مسک کی مصنوعی ذہانت کی کمپنی ’ایکس اے آئی‘ نے تقریباً 3 ارب ڈالر کے قرض کو مقررہ مدت سے قبل... [...]

ایران میں 4 اعشاریہ 3 شدت کا زلزلہ

March 3, 2026 7:03

—فائل فوٹوایرانی صوبے فارس میں 4 اعشاریہ 3 شدت کا زلزلہ ریکارڈ کیا گیا ہے۔ امریکی جیولوجیکل سروے کے مطابق ایرانی صوبے فارس کے ضلع... [...]

ایران: امریکی حملے میں شہید 160 طالبات کی قبروں کی تصویر جاری

March 3, 2026 6:03

---تصویر بشکریہ سوشل میڈیاایرانی وزیرِ خارجہ عباس عراقچی نے امریکی حملے میں شہید 160 طالبات کی قبروں کی تصویر شئیر کر دی۔ عباس عراقچی... [...]

اماراتی صدر و ولی عہد کو دبئی مال میں دیکھ کر عوام حیران و خوش

March 3, 2026 6:03

— اسکرین گریبگزشتہ شب دبئی مال آنے والے خریدار اس وقت حیران رہ گئے جب انہوں نے متحدہ عرب امارات کے صدر شیخ محمد بن زاید النہیان کو... [...]

دبئی: آسٹریلوی ایئر بیس پر ایرانی ڈرون حملہ

March 3, 2026 6:03

— تصویر بشکریہ عالمی میڈیادبئی کے قریب واقع المِنہاد میں آسٹریلوی فوجی تنصیب کو نشانہ بنایا گیا ہے۔غیر ملکی میڈیا رپورٹس کے مطابق... [...]

امریکی وزیرِخارجہ نے اعتراف کیا کہ امریکا اسرائیل کی منتخب کردہ جنگ میں داخل ہوا: عباس عراقچی

March 3, 2026 5:03

ایرانی وزیرِ خارجہ عباس عراقچی---فائل فوٹو ایرانی وزیرِ خارجہ عباس عراقچی نے کہا ہے کہ امریکی وزیرِ خارجہ نے اعتراف کیا ہے کہ... [...]

آئی ایم ایف سے مذاکرات کا دوسرا دن، ورچوئل بات چیت جاری

March 3, 2026 6:03

پاکستان اور بین الاقوامی مالیاتی فنڈ کے درمیان آج دوسرے دن ورچوئل مذاکرات ہوں گے۔ذرائع کے مطابق ابھی یہ طے ہونا باقی ہے کہ... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں مثبت رجحان

March 3, 2026 5:03

---فائل فوٹو پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے دوسرے دن مثبت رجحان دیکھا جا رہا ہے۔پی ایس ایکس بینچ مارک 100 انڈیکس کاروبار... [...]

سونے کی قیمتوں کی اونچی اڑان جاری

March 2, 2026 10:03

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان بھر کی صرافہ مارکیٹوں میں سونے کی قیمتوں کی اونچی اڑان جاری ہے۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوس ایشن کے... [...]

پاکستان اور آئی ایم ایف کے مذاکرات کا آغاز

March 2, 2026 7:03

پاکستانی حکام اور بین الاقوامی مالیاتی فنڈ کے درمیان مذاکرات کا آغاز ہو گیا، مذاکرات 11 مارچ تک جاری رہنے کا امکان ہے۔ذرائع کے... [...]

مشرقِ وسطیٰ میں کشیدگی، عالمی منڈی میں برینٹ خام تیل کی قیمت بڑھ گئی

March 2, 2026 4:03

---فائل فوٹوحالیہ امریکا و اسرائیل کے ایران پر حملے کے بعد برینٹ خام تیل کی قیمت میں اضافہ ہوا ہے۔مشرقِ وسطیٰ میں جنگ کے باعث تیل کی... [...]

مشرقِ وسطیٰ میں کشیدگی، عالمی مارکیٹ میں سونا بھی مہنگا

March 2, 2026 4:03

---فائل فوٹومشرقِ وسطیٰ میں کشیدگی کے باعث عالمی مارکیٹ میں سونے کی قیمتوں کو بھی پر لگ گئے۔عالمی بازار میں سونے کا بھاؤ 87 ڈالرز کے... [...]

ایران پر حملہ: اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں تاریخ کی بدترین مندی

March 2, 2026 4:03

ایران پر اسرائیل اور امریکا کے حملے کے بعد پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے پہلے دن تاریخ کی بدترین مندی دیکھی... [...]

ایران پر اسرائیلی، امریکی جارحیت، تیل کی قیمت میں 10 فیصد اضافہ

March 1, 2026 8:03

ایران پر اسرائیلی اور امریکی جارحیت کے بعد تیل کی عالمی قیمتوں میں دس فی صد اضافہ ہوگیا، قیمت 80 ڈالر فی بیرل تک پہنچ گئی۔ماہرین کا... [...]

پیٹرول اور ڈیزل کے بعد مٹی کے تیل کی قیمت میں بھی اضافہ

March 1, 2026 6:03

— فائل فوٹو آئل اینڈ گیس ریگولیٹری اتھارٹی نے مٹی کے تیل کی قیمت میں اضافے کا نوٹیفکیشن جاری کر دیا۔نوٹیفکیشن کے مطابق مٹی کا تیل 8... [...]

پاکستان میں سونے کی قیمتوں میں آج بڑا اضافہ

February 28, 2026 8:02

—فائل فوٹوپاکستان بھر کی صرافہ مارکیٹوں میں سونے کی قیمتوں میں آج بڑا اضافہ ہوا ہے۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوس ایشن کے... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج: کاروباری ہفتے میں منفی رجحان رہا، 5107 پوائنٹس کی کمی

February 28, 2026 4:02

— فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے میں منفی رجحان رہا۔کاروباری ہفتے کے دوران 100 انڈیکس 5 ہزار 107 پوائنٹس کم ہو کر 1... [...]

وزارت خزانہ نے فروری میں مہنگائی کی شرح کا تخمینہ ظاہر کردیا

February 27, 2026 4:02

فائل فوٹووزارت خزانہ نے فروری میں مہنگائی کی شرح 6 سے 7 فیصد رہنے کا تخمینہ ظاہر کر دیا ہے۔وزارت خزانہ کے اعلامیے کے مطابق فروری میں... [...]

10 روپے کے نوٹ کی جگہ سکہ متعارف کرانے پر غور

February 27, 2026 6:02

— فائل فوٹووفاقی کابینہ نے 10 روپے کے نوٹ کی جگہ سکہ متعارف کرانے پر غور شروع کر دیا ہے۔اس اقدام سے قومی خزانے کو 40 سے 50 ارب روپے کی... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں منفی رجحان

February 27, 2026 5:02

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے آخری دن منفی رجحان دیکھا گیا۔پی ایس ایکس بینچ مارک 100 انڈیکس کاروبار کے دوران... [...]

زر مبادلہ ذخائر میں 10.62 کروڑ ڈالر کا اضافہ

February 26, 2026 11:02

ملکی زرمبادلہ کے ذخائر 20 فروری کو ختم ہونے والے ہفتے میں 10.62 کروڑ کے اضافے سے 21.40 ارب ڈالر رہے۔ کراچی سے جاری اسٹیٹ بنک آف پاکستان کے... [...]

Pinterest’s stock is rising. Here’s why investors are cheering a big boost to the buyback program.

March 3, 2026 4:42

Pinterest’s new share-repurchase authorization represents nearly a third of the company’s market cap and signals to one analyst that an activist is satisfied with the company’s strategic vision. [...]

Micron and other memory stocks see outsized losses. What’s behind the big moves?

March 3, 2026 4:18

Analysts don’t see any negative shift in fundamentals for memory-chip stocks — and UBS offers a new highly upbeat earnings forecast for Micron specifically. [...]

Investors are now learning a painful lesson: Buying a dip driven by geopolitics isn’t a slam dunk

March 3, 2026 4:04

Investors rushed to buy U.S. stocks on Monday after the U.S. and Israeli bombardment of Iran helped inspire a global selloff. That may have been short-sighted. [...]

How this under-the-radar U.S. natural-gas exporter could capitalize on a potential shortage in Europe

March 3, 2026 4:02

The U.S. is the world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, and one relatively obscure U.S. company seems ready to reap the benefits of a surge in global natural-gas prices following the U.S. and Israel’s attacks on Iran and the widening conflict in the Middle East. [...]

Boomers waste money, too. These are the spending traps tripping up the richest generation.

March 3, 2026 3:51

Baby boomers may not be the “avocado toast” generation, but they have plenty of their own wasteful and financially damaging habits. [...]

Her accountant went to prison. Now the IRS is coming after her for $328,000.

March 3, 2026 3:50

She didn’t intend to evade taxes when she hired the accountant in 1993, but she’s still on the hook for his actions. [...]

These S&P 500 stocks are falling the hardest on Tuesday

March 3, 2026 3:41

Stocks of gold miners and computer-memory makers were hit especially hard, while Best Buy led the S&P 500 with a gain after its earnings report. [...]

‘No toilets’? Civil trial over renovation work at Kanye West’s stripped-down Tadao Ando beach house in Malibu plays out in L.A.

March 3, 2026 3:30

A worker is seeking more than $1 million in damages from Kanye West over the renovation work of a Malibu home and has made some bizarre allegations. [...]

My rude, ungrateful relative gave her lawyer power of attorney — and has lived to regret it. Should I get involved?

March 3, 2026 3:15