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Debut IPO of 2026: Pak-Qatar General Takaful share price hit upper limit of Rs14

January 21, 2026 5:45

In the debut initial public offering (IPO) of the year 2026, Pak-Qatar General Takaful Limited’s (PQGTL) share price soared to the maximum allowed bid price of Rs14 per share on first of the two-day Dutch bidding (book building) process at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday. The bid price surged 40% to the upper limit of Rs14 per share from the opening (minimum/floor) price of Rs10 per share on the day. The general Takaful firm managed to mobilise the targeted maximum financing of a total of Rs420 million through the IPO, as the company put as many as 30 million shares on the sale to institutional, high-net worth, and retail investors. In the two-day book building process that will culminate on Thursday, the company is set to sell 75% (or 22.50 million shares out of total 30 million shares) to institutional and high-net worth individual investors. It will sell the remaining 25% (7.5 million) shares at the strike price – Rs14 per share – to the general public later this month. Also read: Pak-Qatar Family Takaful raises Rs901mn through IPO at PSX The issue to the institutional and high-net worth investors was oversubscribed by almost six-time in volumetric terms, attracting bids for 132.70 million shares compared to 22.50 million shares offered to the rich investors, according to the results visible at the PQGTL’s bid screen at PSX. Shahid Ali Habib, CEO of Arif Habib Limited, the lead manager of the IPO, reported on the social platform X: “Pak-Qatar General Takaful becomes the first IPO in PSX history to be oversubscribed and hit the upper cap of Rs14 within the first hour of book building.” “Book building continues till tomorrow, new bids only at Rs14, on a pro-rata basis.” The prospectus of the IPO reads, “the principal purpose of the issue is to enable PQGTL to strengthen and consolidate its position in Pakistan’s Takaful industry. The company aims to reinforce its capital base, improve solvency margins, and expand its digital distribution network while continuing to develop innovative, customer-centric, and cost-effective Takaful products”. Also read: Regulatory frameworks across major sectors in Pakistan ‘outdated’, says CCP chairman PQGTL currently maintains an issued and subscribed paid-up capital of Rs711.071 million. The proceeds raised through the public offering will increase the company’s paid-up capital to Rs1.011 billion, according to the prospectus, enabling PQGTL to meet progressive regulatory milestones for non-life insurers and Takaful operators as outlined by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). [...]

Fitch Ratings affirms Pakistan’s long-term debt ratings at B-

January 21, 2026 4:34

Fitch Ratings affirmed Pakistan’s long-term debt ratings at B- and assigned a Recovery Rating of RR4 following the removal of the ratings from Under Criteria Observation (UCO), according to an official release on Wednesday. The rating actions reflect the application of Fitch’s new Sovereign Rating Criteria, effective September 2025, and the inclusion of recovery assumptions into sovereign debt ratings for the first time. Fitch’s credit rating scale for issuers and issues is expressed using the categories ‘AAA’ to ‘BBB’ (investment grade) and ‘BB’ to ‘D’ (speculative grade) with an additional +/- for AA through CCC levels indicating relative differences of probability of default or recovery for issues. ‘B’ ratings indicate that material default risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is vulnerable to deterioration in the business and economic environment. The terms “investment grade” and “speculative grade” are market conventions and do not imply any recommendation or endorsement of a specific security for investment purposes. Investment grade categories indicate relatively low to moderate credit risk, while ratings in the speculative categories signal either a higher level of credit risk or that a default has already occurred. Also read: Fitch upgrades Pakistan’s rating: macroeconomic stabilisation acknowledged Key rating drivers The senior unsecured long-term debt ratings of Pakistan and The Pakistan Global Sukuk Programme Company Limited are equalised with Pakistan’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR), reflecting “Fitch’s expectation of average recovery prospects in a default scenario, given Pakistan’s high levels of general government debt and interest payments as a percentage of revenue, and the absence of any other clearly identifiable criteria factors that would cause us to notch the debt ratings up or down from the IDR”. On April 15, 2025, Fitch upgraded Pakistan’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency IDR to B- with a stable outlook, from CCC+. Pakistan has an ESG Relevance Score of 5 for political stability and rights and for the rule of law, institutional and regulatory quality and control of corruption, as is the case for all sovereigns. “These scores reflect the high weight that World Bank Governance Indicators (WBGI) have in our proprietary Sovereign Rating Model. Pakistan has a WBGI ranking at the 22nd percentile,” Fitch said. Rating sensitivities Factors that could, individually or collectively, lead to negative rating action/downgrade include failure to keep government debt and debt-servicing metrics on a firm downward path, and renewed deterioration in external liquidity conditions, for example from delays in International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme reviews or insufficiently tight economic policy settings. Meanwhile, factors that could, individually or collectively, lead to positive rating action/upgrade include significant declines in government debt and debt-servicing burdens, for example due to the implementation of fiscal consolidation plans in line with IMF programme commitments, leading to structural improvements in tax revenue generation. Further significant easing of external financing risks, including evidence of greater ability to source external funding and a sustained recovery in foreign-currency reserves beyond Fitch’s forecasts could also lead to a positive rating action. [...]

SECP allows AMCs to open Sehl Sarmayakari accounts directly

January 21, 2026 4:06

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has allowed Asset Management Companies (AMCs) to directly open Sehl Sarmayakari Accounts for resident Pakistani individuals through their own digital platforms or physical forms. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the regulator said the move is part of its ongoing efforts to promote financial inclusion and improve the ease of doing business. Previously, Sehl Accounts could only be opened through branchless banking agents, electronic money institutions, or scheduled banks. READ MORE: Account opening: SECP directs AMCs to carry out due diligence Under the new arrangement, AMCs will be responsible for collecting customer information, carrying out required verifications, and ensuring compliance with prescribed investment and transaction limits applicable to Sehl Accounts. The SECP said that upon completion of additional documentation and information requirements, Sehl Accounts may be upgraded to Sahulat Sarmayakari or Sarmayakari Accounts, allowing investors to make investments beyond the limits set for Sehl Accounts. The measure will enable AMCs to onboard low-risk customers using simplified Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, helping promote micro-savings and broaden financial inclusion in the country. READ MORE: ’Sahulat Sarmayakari’: SECP unveils criteria for opening account According to the regulator, Sehl Accounts are designed to attract low-income segments by offering a simplified and time-efficient onboarding process, while allowing investors to place their savings in low-risk collective investment schemes, including mutual funds. The SECP said it remains committed to supporting capital market development through progressive regulatory reforms, enhanced investor access, and stronger financial inclusion, while ensuring robust investor protection and market integrity. [...]

US stocks up after Trump says won’t take Greenland with force

January 21, 2026 3:41

NEW YORK: Wall Street stocks opened higher Wednesday after US President Donald Trump said he wouldn’t seize Greenland with force while insisting on “immediate negotiations” to make it a US territory. Trump told the World Economic Forum in Davos that he “won’t use force” to take over Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark that the US president has fixated on in recent days. In the first minutes of trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 0.4 percent at 48,697.73. The broad-based S&P 500 climbed 0.3 percent to 6,819.92, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index edged up 0.2 percent to 22,988.96. READ MORE: Wall St skids to near three-week low as Greenland dispute triggers global sell-off US stock futures had been in the red prior to Trump’s statement on Greenland, extending the losses from Tuesday when Trump’s threat of imposing tariffs on Europe over its stance on Greenland rattled markets. “It is very difficult for investors to deal with so much uncertainty,” said Ken Mahoney of Mahoney Asset Management. “Very few investors came into the new year thinking the president had really seriously considered pursuing Greenland in its crosshairs and threatening tariffs against Europe who are opposing him on this action, which was a big fallout over the weekend.” Among individual companies, Netflix fell 5.2 percent as it projected that revenue would be essentially flat in the current quarter after years of growth. [...]

Rupee records marginal gain against US dollar

January 21, 2026 3:15

The Pakistani rupee registered marginal gain against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Wednesday. At close, the local currency settled at 279.90, a gain of Re0.01 against the greenback. On Tuesday, the local unit closed at 279.91. Internationally, the US dollar languished near three-week lows against the euro and Swiss franc on Wednesday after White House threats over Greenland triggered a broad selloff in US ‌assets, from the currency to Wall Street stocks and Treasury bonds. The yen was equally on the ropes following a surge in Japanese government bond yields to record highs as investors fretted about fiscal largesse with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi looking to expand her mandate in snap elections next month. Declines in the dollar accelerated sharply overnight with a 0.53% slide in the dollar index - which measures the ‌currency against six major peers - marking its worst single-day performance in six weeks. On Wednesday, it was flat at 98.541. The greenback tumbled more than 1% against Europe’s shared currency at one point on Tuesday to reach the lowest since December 30 at $1.1770 per euro . It was last changing hands at $1.1720. Oil prices, a key indicator of currency parity, rose on Wednesday as investors assessed a temporary shutdown at two large fields in Kazakhstan, expectations of a build in US crude inventories and fresh geopolitical tension tied to US tariff threats in its bid to gain control of Greenland. Brent futures gained 11 cents, or 0.2%, to $65.03 a barrel at 1343 GMT. The US West Texas Intermediate crude contract rose 14 cents, also 0.2%, to $60.50 a barrel. Inter-bank market rates for dollar on Wednesday BID Rs 279.90 OFFER Rs 280.10 Open-market movement In the open market, the PKR gained 5 paise for buying and 14 paise for selling against USD, closing at 280.37 and 281.18, respectively. Against Euro, the PKR lost 61 paise for buying and 75 paise for selling, closing at 328.20 and 331.30, respectively. Against UAE Dirham, the PKR remained unchanged for buying and lost 1 paisa for selling, closing at 76.53 and 77.31, respectively. Against Saudi Riyal, the PKR remained unchanged for both buying and selling, closing at 74.84 and 75.46, respectively. Open-market rates for dollar on Wednesday BID Rs 280.37 OFFER Rs 281.18 [...]

PSX snaps buying streak as KSE-100 sheds nearly 1,600 points

January 21, 2026 2:32

After days of positive momentum, selling pressure returned at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), with the benchmark KSE-100 Index shedding nearly 1,600 points on Wednesday. The market kicked off trading relatively firm and briefly attempted to move higher, hitting an intra-day high of 189,523.43. However, it failed to hold gains as selling pressure gripped the bourse for most of the trading session. The selling intensified during the final hours of trading, pushing the benchmark index to an intra-day low of 186,626.85. At close, the KSE-100 Index settled at 187,033.26, a decrease of 1,588.52 points or 0.84%. “The local bourse witnessed a bout of profit booking as investors sought to maximize recent gains, leading to a volatile trading session,” brokerage house Topline Securities said in its post-market report. Select index heavyweights—PPL, SAZEW, and NBP—provided some respite, collectively contributing 135 points to the index. However, selling pressure in MEBL, ENGROH, MCB, HBL, and SYS outweighed these gains, cumulatively shaving 792 points off the benchmark, it added. In a key development, repatriation of profits and dividends by foreign investors rose sharply 27% in the first half of the current fiscal year (FY26), highlighting stronger earnings outflows from Pakistan. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday reported that foreign companies operating in the country repatriated $1.559 billion in profits and dividends during July-December of FY26 compared to $1.226 billion in the same period last year (FY25). On Tuesday, the PSX concluded trading on a positive note as benchmark indices extended gains amid sustained investor participation. The KSE-100 Index advanced by 860.09 points, or 0.46%, to close at 188,621.78 points. Globally, Asian stocks extended their losses for a third session on Wednesday, undone by heightened tensions over US threats to acquire Greenland ahead of President Donald Trump’s Davos speech, while a global bond rout appeared to slow for now. Fears of offshore selling of ‌US assets - the so-called “Sell America” trade that emerged after last year’s “Liberation Day” tariff announcements in April - gripped markets as Wall Street tumbled over 2% overnight and the US dollar suffered its biggest fall in over a month. That sent investors fleeing to the safety of gold and silver, which both notched record highs. Trump, however, doubled down on his rhetoric over Greenland, saying there was “no going back” on his goal to control the island, refusing to rule out taking it by force. His threat of tariffs on Europe has also rekindled fears of a global trade war. The European Union will convene an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday to discuss the matter, with the long-standing US-EU alliance ‍clearly at risk. All eyes are now on the World Economic Forum in Davos where Trump is due to deliver a speech on Wednesday. In early trade, MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 0.3%. Japan’s Nikkei slumped 1.2%, down for the fifth straight day. Meanwhile, the Pakistani rupee registered marginal gain against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Wednesday. At close, the local currency settled at 279.90, a gain of Re0.01 against the greenback. Volume on the all-share index increased to 1,325.60 million from 1,225.81 million recorded in the previous close. The value of shares rose to Rs69.58 billion from Rs63.90 billion in the previous session. K-Electric Ltd was the volume leader with 263.24 million shares, followed by Hascol Petrol with 100.76 million shares, and Fauji Foods Ltd with 74.97 million shares. Shares of 488 companies were traded on Wednesday, of which 118 registered an increase, 331 recorded a fall, and 39 remained unchanged. [...]

Copper bounces back with tight stocks, demand in focus

January 21, 2026 2:15

Copper prices rose on Wednesday, bouncing back from a sharp decline in the previous session, as investors focused on tight inventories outside the U.S., even as questions lingered over demand. Benchmark three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange was up 1% at $12,875 per metric ton in official open-outcry activity, after closing down 1.6% on Tuesday. The metal, which is widely used in the power, construction and manufacturing sectors, hit a record high of $13,407 one week ago. “While the broader base metals complex remains volatile, structural tightness continues to underpin prices,” Neil Welsh, head of metals at Britannia Global Markets, said in a note. The premium of the cash LME copper contract over the three-month forward spiked to more than $100 a ton on Tuesday, indicating strong demand for near-term metal, but had eased to $11.50 a ton on Wednesday. Dan Smith, managing director at Commodity Market Analytics, said markets were “nervous” about the global geopolitical situation after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on European allies opposed to his goal to gain control of Greenland. “I’m a bit dubious about this bounce,” Smith said of copper, adding that his algorithm was now giving him a sell signal. “It suggests any kind of strength will be short-lived.” The recent price rally is also hurting demand in China, the top metals consumer. The Yangshan copper premium, a gauge of Chinese appetite for copper imports, fell to $22 a ton on Wednesday, the lowest price in almost 18 months. “China macro looks pretty strong, but high copper prices tend to weaken demand if you’re not careful,” Smith said. China, meanwhile, exported another 96,000 tons of refined copper in December, down around one-third from November’s bumper shipments but still more than five times higher than a year earlier. Tin was the top gainer, adding 5.6% to $52,200 a ton as Indonesia cracks down on illegal mining, while nickel jumped 2.5% to $18,055. Aluminium rose 0.5% to $3,122.50, zinc gained 0.9% to $3,200 and lead climbed 0.3% to $2,033.50. [...]

Most Gulf markets gain ahead of earnings

January 21, 2026 1:38

Most stock markets in the Gulf ended higher on Wednesday, as investors turned their attention to upcoming earnings despite lingering global trade and geopolitical concerns. Saudi Arabia’s benchmark index gained 0.3%, with petrochemical maker Saudi Basic Industries rising 2.5%. Oil prices rose as investors assessed a temporary shutdown at two large fields in Kazakhstan, expectations of a build in U.S. crude inventories and fresh concerns tied to U.S. tariff threats in its bid to gain control of Greenland. Dubai’s main share index rose 0.4%, closing at its highest since April 2006, helped by a 1.5% rise in top lender Emirates NBD. India’s competition regulator said on Tuesday it had cleared ENBD’s acquisition of a stake in RBL Bank . In Abu Dhabi, the index edged 0.1% higher. Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund Mubadala is targeting opportunities in artificial intelligence and robotics, viewing the sectors as a major source of industrial growth and a guide for future investments, its group CEO said on Tuesday. The Qatari index gave up early gains to finish flat. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani said on Tuesday Qatar intends to support local firms in competing internationally, indicating fresh measures in the country’s drive to diversify its economy beyond energy. Outside the Gulf, Egypt’s blue-chip index gained 0.3%, hitting a record high. Analysts have raised their estimates for Egypt’s economic growth to 4.9% this fiscal year as reforms taken under an International Monetary Fund programme two years ago bear fruit faster than anticipated, a Reuters poll showed on Tuesday. Saudi Arabia rose 0.3% to 10,948Abu Dhabi was up 0.1% to 10,206Dubai added 0.4% to 6,397Qatar was flat at 11,217Egypt gained 0.3% to 46,049Bahrain lost 0.1% to 2,052Oman dropped 0.9% to 6,187Kuwait closed flat at 9,437 [...]

Industrial stocks lead Sri Lankan shares higher; December inflation rises

January 21, 2026 12:25

Sri Lankan shares closed higher on Wednesday, lifted by gains in industrial stocks. The CSE All-Share index rose nearly 0.8% to 23,806.32. On Tuesday, the index closed marginally lower. Sri Lanka’s consumer prices were up 2.9% year-on-year in December, after rising 2.4% in November, data published by the country’s statistics department after market close showed. Colombo Dockyard Plc and Asphalts (Ceylon) Plc were the biggest boost to the CSE All-Share index, rising 27.5% and 25%, respectively. Trading volume rose to 180.3 million shares from 135.5 million in the previous session. The equity market’s turnover rose to 9.82 billion Sri Lankan rupees ($31.7 million), compared with 5.17 billion rupees in the previous session, according to exchange data. Foreign investors were net sellers of shares worth 186.5 million rupees, while domestic investors were net buyers of shares worth 9.68 billion rupees, data showed. [...]

Indian shares extend losses after Tuesday’s selloff; rupee slumps to record low

January 21, 2026 11:27

Indian shares fell on Wednesday, extending losses after their steepest drop in over eight months in the previous session, as global trade and geopolitical woes continued to fuel foreign selling. The Nifty 50 fell 0.3% to 25,157.5 while the BSE Sensex eased 0.33% to 81,909.63, both logging fresh three-month lows. The indexes fell 1.4% and 1.3% on Tuesday. Asian stocks extended losses to a third session amid mounting tensions over President Donald Trump’s threats to acquire Greenland and reignite a trade war with the European Union. Weak domestic earnings, marked by misses from heavyweights such as Reliance Industries and ICICI Bank, and foreign outflows have also dragged Indian shares. Twelve of 16 major sectors logged losses. The small- and mid-caps lost 0.9% and 1.1%, respectively, to close at eight-month and three-month lows. “A wave of global turbulence has washed over domestic equities, dragging markets lower, not because of weakening fundamentals at home, but due to a dramatic shift in global risk appetite,” said Deven Choksey, managing director at DRChoksey FinServ. “As U.S. bond yields rise and geopolitical tensions escalate, fueled by fresh tariff threats, investors worldwide are racing to de-risk their portfolios, unleashing a renewed bout of foreign outflows from India”. Foreign investors have sold $3.23 billion of Indian shares in January, after offloading a record $19 billion in 2025. Foreign outflows weighed on the rupee, which sank to a record low on Wednesday, with a Greenland-driven decline in global equities amplifying outflow pressures. Among individual stocks, Shoppers Stop fell 6.2% while PTC India Financial Services slid 6.4% after reporting quarterly profit declines. In contrast, CreditAccess Grameen jumped 9.1% after posting a quarterly profit compared to a loss a year earlier. Indiamart Intermesh and Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri gained 6% and 2% on upbeat results. Persistent Systems fell 2% despite posting a rise in quarterly profit as multiple brokerages projected limited upside citing rich valuations. [...]

Indian rupee slides to record low on global market woes; lack of RBI presence worsens fall

January 21, 2026 11:16

MUMBAI: The Indian rupee plunged to a record low and suffered its biggest single-session fall in two months on Wednesday, as a global bond rout and U.S. threats to acquire Greenland kept investors on edge and amplified concerns over outflows. The Indian rupee fell for the sixth straight session, slipping to an all-time low of 91.7425 against the dollar. It closed down 0.8% at 91.6950 against 90.9750 previous close. The fall was exacerbated as the Reserve Bank of India stayed away from the market, and did not provide dollar supply, traders said. The Indian rupee, the worst performing Asian on the day, is down 2% so far this month, after falling about 5% in 2025. Many of the challenges that weighed on the rupee in 2025 remain in place. Equity outflows persist and importers are more inclined to hedge than exporters amid expectations of a further depreciation. And while India’s current-account deficit remains manageable, the lack of capital inflows is a hurdle, leaving the currency exposed to further weakness, analysts said. Indian equities dropped 0.3% on the day, after registering their biggest drop in over eight months on Tuesday. Foreign investors have withdrawn about $3 billion from Indian shares in January after record outflows of nearly $19 billion in 2025. “Flows mainly drive the USD/INR pair, thus weakness may continue to persist with interim legs of intervention expected from RBI in case of excess volatility,” said Kunal Sodhani, head of treasury at Shinhan Bank India. India Forex Advisors said the currency will remain sensitive to corporate demand dynamics and portfolio flows. An escalation in global risk aversion would likely reinforce outflows, increasing downside pressure on the rupee. Lack of progress on a trade deal with the U.S. has further deprived the rupee of a potential inflow catalyst. Adding to the strain on the currency this year is weakness in most Asian peers — a factor that was largely absent in 2025. Investors now await U.S. President Trump’s speech in Davos due later in the day. [...]

Palm rises more than 1% to seven-week high on festive demand

January 21, 2026 11:04

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian palm oil futures rose more than 1% to a seven-week high on Wednesday, as anticipation of stronger demand for the Lunar New Year holidays boosted the market. The benchmark palm oil contract for April delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange gained 60 ringgit, or 1.47%, to 4,154 ringgit ($1,026.69) a metric ton, the highest close since December 2. Crude palm oil futures traded higher amid expectations of strong demand in the coming weeks ahead of the Lunar New Year festive season next month, said David Ng, a proprietary trader at Kuala Lumpur-based trading firm Iceberg X Sdn Bhd. Cargo surveyors estimated exports of Malaysian palm oil products for January 1-20 have risen between 8.64% and 11.4% month-on-month. Dalian’s most-active soyoil contract firmed 0.25%, while its palm oil contract added 1.28%. Soyoil prices on the Chicago Board of Trade were up 0.61%. Palm oil tracks the price movements of rival edible oils as it competes for a share of the global vegetable oils market. Oil prices fell as an expected build-up of U.S. crude inventories outweighed a temporary halt in output at two large fields in Kazakhstan and geopolitical pressure from U.S. threats of tariffs over its bid to gain control of Greenland. Weaker crude oil futures make palm a less attractive option for biodiesel feedstock. The ringgit, palm’s currency of trade, strengthened 0.2% against the dollar, making the commodity slightly expensive for buyers holding foreign currencies and capping further gains. Palm oil prices in February are expected to remain rangebound between 4,000 ringgit and 4,300 ringgit ($987-$1,061) per ton, supported by seasonal declines in production and stocks, the Malaysian Palm Oil Council said. [...]

Global oil demand growth to rise in 2026, IEA says

January 21, 2026 9:40

LONDON: The International Energy Agency revised its 2026 global oil demand growth forecasts higher on Wednesday in its latest monthly oil market report, suggesting a slightly narrower surplus for the market this year. The IEA now expects global oil demand to rise by 930,000 barrels per day (bpd) this year, up from the 860,000 bpd growth forecast in its previous report. That suggests global oil supply will exceed demand by 3.69 million bpd this year, according to Reuters calculations based on the report, narrowing from an implied surplus of 3.84 million bpd in the Paris-based watchdog’s December report. “For now, bloated balances provide some comfort to market participants and have kept prices in check,” the IEA said. [...]

New all-time high: gold per tola jumps past Rs500,000 mark in Pakistan

January 21, 2026 7:57

Gold prices in Pakistan increased on Wednesday in line with their gain in the international market. In the local market, gold price per tola reached Rs506,362 after a gain of Rs12,700 during the day. Similarly, 10-gram gold was sold at Rs434,123 after it increased by Rs10,888, according to rates shared by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA). On Tuesday, gold price per tola reached Rs493,662 after a gain of Rs4,300 during the day. The international rate of gold was up by $127 to reach $4,840 per ounce (with a premium of $20). Meanwhile, the price of silver increased by Rs64 to reach Rs9,933 per tola. [...]

Sterling holds firm after UK data shows pickup in inflation

January 21, 2026 7:23

LONDON: The pound held steady on Wednesday, after data showed UK inflation picked up more than expected in December, which could lower the chances of more aggressive rate cuts from the Bank of England this year. Geopolitical tensions have dominated activity in the currency market this week, overshadowing even economic data, as the prospect of another trade war between the United States and Europe has prompted investors to hedge against this risk by selling US assets, including the dollar against the pound. Official UK data showed the headline rate of inflation accelerated to 3.4% in December, compared with a forecast of 3.3% in a Reuters poll of economists and against a 3.2% rate the month before, while services inflation also sped up to 4.5% from 4.4% in November. Sterling traded at $1.3438, showing little change on the day or from levels traded right before the inflation report. Against the euro , the pound also held steady at 87.22 pence. [...]

Rupee records marginal gain against US dollar

January 21, 2026 3:15

PSX snaps buying streak as KSE-100 sheds nearly 1,600 points

January 21, 2026 2:32

India’s Reliance to buy sanctions-compliant Russian oil in February and March, sources say

January 21, 2026 2:22

NEW DELHI/MOSCOW: India’s Reliance Industries Ltd, operator of the world’s largest refining complex, is set to receive sanctions-compliant Russian oil in February and March after a one-month pause, four sources familiar with the matter said. Reliance last received Russian crude in December after securing a one-month U.S. concession that allowed it to wind down dealings with the sanctioned Russian oil producer Rosneft beyond a November 21 deadline. Like other Indian refiners, Reliance will buy Russian oil from non-sanctioned sellers, the sources said, without elaborating on the number of February and March cargoes that the refiner has booked. It is not clear if the private refinery will continue to buy Russian oil beyond March. Reliance did not respond to a Reuters email seeking comment. Refiners boost Middle East crude imports Despite Reliance’s return, India’s overall Russian oil imports are expected to stay subdued through February and March, the sources added. Indian refiners shift oil strategy; trim Russian buys and turn to MidEast Reliance had been importing Russian crude under a long‑term agreement with Rosneft for 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) for its 1.4 million bpd Jamnagar refinery complex in Gujarat. The European Union has said from January 21 it will not take fuel produced at refineries that received or processed Russian oil 60 days prior to the bill-of-lading date. Reliance has said it will process the cargoes that arrived after November 20 at its India-focused 660,000 barrels per day plant, allowing it to continue selling fuels to the EU from its 704,000 bpd export-oriented refinery. Refiners in India, which became the top buyer of discounted Russian seaborne crude following the 2022 outbreak of war in Ukraine, are recalibrating their crude import strategies, raising Middle Eastern purchases as they shift away from Russia. “We have faced instances where sanctions were imposed suddenly and we had to cut back,” Srinivas T, chief operating officer, refinery and marketing, at Reliance, said last week. Reliance had ramped up purchases from national oil companies elsewhere ahead of time to avoid spot market disruptions, he said. [...]

Copper bounces back with tight stocks, demand in focus

January 21, 2026 2:15

Fitch Ratings affirms Pakistan’s long-term debt ratings at B-

January 21, 2026 1:58

Most Gulf markets gain ahead of earnings

January 21, 2026 1:38

India’s growth momentum to sustain as demand recovers, RBI report says

January 21, 2026 1:28

MUMBAI: High-frequency indicators point to sustained growth momentum, according to the Reserve Bank of India’s latest State of the Economy report released on Wednesday. High-frequency indicators are data collected frequently, such as goods and services tax (GST) receipts and e-way bills, among others, that point to economic activity. The central bank noted that overall demand conditions remain strong, driven by a revival in rural demand and a gradual recovery in urban demand. A strong rebound in the manufacturing sector and continued buoyancy in services are expected to boost growth in gross value added. Retail automobile sales showed broad-based growth across categories due to the cuts in GST, further bolstering rural demand. Indian lenders to seek RBI approval for longer bulk deposits, sources say “Even amidst these global uncertainties, the current state of the economy provides ground for optimism going forward,” the report stated. The GDP growth estimates for 2025-26 indicate that India will remain the fastest-growing major economy in the world, it said. RBI has projected GDP growth at 7.3% for fiscal year 2026 ending March 31, while for the next fiscal year, growth is expected at 6.7% and 6.8% for the first and second quarters, respectively. Economic activity continued to register a strong growth in December. E-way bill generation recorded healthy expansion, supported by GST rate rationalisation, alongside stock clearance and firms’ efforts to meet year-end sales targets. Growth in GST revenue collections was primarily driven by higher import-related GST receipts, the bulletin added. The International Monetary Fund on Monday revised its growth forecast for India upwards by 0.7 percentage points to 7.3%, citing strong momentum, but said it is likely to slow to 6.4% in the following two fiscal years as cyclical factors fade. India has also intensified efforts to diversify and reinforce its exports with the aim of mitigating external sector risks amplified by the threat of further tariffs from the U.S., said the report. [...]

Finance minister, Visa president discuss innovation in payments sector

January 21, 2026 1:22

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb met Visa Group President Oliver Jenkyn in Davos on Wednesday to discuss innovation in digital payments and Pakistan’s transition toward a modern, digitally enabled economy, the Finance Division said in a statement. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, where both sides reviewed Pakistan’s evolving economic landscape and its engagement with global payment networks. Jenkyn reaffirmed Visa’s long-term commitment to Pakistan, expressing strong interest in supporting the country’s next phase of growth through secure payment solutions, innovation and knowledge transfer. READ MORE: Finance minister discusses investment, economic outlook with Saudi counterpart at WEF He highlighted the global shift toward digital payments and stressed the importance of policy clarity, openness and an enabling environment for scaling innovation. Aurangzeb welcomed Visa’s continued engagement and said policy consistency and a clear reform roadmap were central to Pakistan’s economic strategy. He noted that the government was working to strengthen the digital ecosystem, including connectivity, financial infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, to encourage private sector participation. The finance minister said collaboration between global payment networks and local solutions would play a key role in accelerating financial inclusion and digital adoption across the country. READ MORE: WEF sidelines: Aurangzeb discusses ties with UAE minister He also highlighted ongoing efforts to promote transparency, documentation of the economy and digitisation across sectors, adding that these reforms were creating new opportunities for trusted global partners. Aurangzeb said the establishment of dedicated digital and regulatory institutions reflected the government’s commitment to positioning Pakistan as a “Digital Nation.” Jenkyn underscored the value of global platforms such as Visa in providing security standards, resilience and scalable solutions. He stressed the need for balanced cooperation between governments, regulators and the private sector, and said Visa was ready to share global best practices as financial technologies evolve. Both sides agreed to remain closely engaged as digital finance continues to evolve globally and locally, expressing confidence that sustained collaboration would lead to practical, market-ready solutions in the coming years. [...]

DAVOS 2026: UK’s Menzies Aviation eyes expansion in Pakistan amid privatisation push

January 21, 2026 12:32

Global aviation services provider Menzies Aviation has expressed a strong interest in expanding its footprint in Pakistan. The development came during Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Hassan El Houry, Chairperson of Menzies Aviation, in Davos on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, to discuss opportunities for enhancing cooperation in the aviation sector. The meeting focused on improving airport services, operational efficiency, and exploring investment opportunities aligned with Pakistan’s reform and privatisation agenda. Aurangzeb briefed El Houry on the government’s privatisation plans, including progress related to Pakistan International Airlines, and outlined plans to outsource operations at major airports, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. He noted that Pakistan’s economy was moving in a positive direction, creating a conducive environment for private sector investment and international partnerships. World Economic Forum sidelines: Aurangzeb discusses ties with UAE minister Hassan El Houry briefed the finance minister on Menzies Aviation’s global operations and experience in delivering aviation services worldwide. He identified Pakistan as a promising destination for aviation-related business and investment, highlighted Sialkot’s strategic importance in aviation and logistics, and expressed Menzies Aviation’s interest in continuing and expanding its engagement with Pakistan. Both sides also discussed ways to enhance airport service quality and improve the overall passenger experience. The UK-based Menzies Aviation is a leading global aviation services company providing essential services to airlines at over 350 airports in over 60 countries. The meetings concluded on a positive note, with the finance minister and his interlocutors reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, deepening partnerships, and advancing mutually beneficial economic and investment initiatives in support of Pakistan’s sustainable growth and development. Aurangzeb held a series of important meetings in Davos on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, focusing on advancing Pakistan’s economic reform agenda, strengthening international partnerships, and promoting investment-led growth. PM arrives in Davos The finance minister met with Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank, to review Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and discuss ways to further deepen the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and ADB. During the meeting, the ADB President noted that Pakistan was entering a significant phase of economic transformation, with renewed momentum in reforms and growing confidence in the market. “He highlighted ADB’s strong and expanding engagement in Pakistan and expressed optimism about the country’s economic direction, underscoring ADB’s commitment to supporting Pakistan through a close and forward-looking partnership,” read the statement. Aurangzeb thanked the ADB President for his continued support and guidance, noting that Pakistan’s relationship with ADB had entered a new and more strategic phase. The finance minister briefed the ADB President on progress in structural reforms, particularly the government’s renewed focus on privatisation and private sector participation. He noted that recent initiatives had generated strong market interest and helped establish important benchmarks, with additional projects in the pipeline across multiple sectors. Aurangzeb emphasised the importance of continued collaboration with development partners, including ADB, to support these reforms and unlock Pakistan’s growth potential. Discussions also covered efforts to modernise Pakistan’s energy sector and advance sustainable and clean energy solutions. The finance minister highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening systems, and supporting long-term economic sustainability. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination to identify practical solutions that support inclusive and durable growth. [...]

Industrial stocks lead Sri Lankan shares higher; December inflation rises

January 21, 2026 12:25

Oil prices dip on supply build expectations, Greenland tension

January 21, 2026 11:56

LONDON: Oil prices dipped on Wednesday as investors assessed expectations of a build in U.S. crude inventories, a temporary shutdown at two large fields in Kazakhstan and fresh geopolitical tension tied to U.S. tariff threats in its bid to gain control of Greenland. Brent futures were down 12 cents, or 0.2%, to $64.80 a barrel at 1125 GMT. The U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude contract was down 11 cents, also 0.2%, at $60.25 a barrel. Both contracts closed about 1.5% higher in the previous session after OPEC+ producer Kazakhstan halted output at the Tengiz and Korolev oilfields on Sunday due to power distribution issues. Strong Chinese economic data was also positive. Oil production at the two Kazakh fields could be halted for another seven to 10 days, three industry sources told Reuters. The oil output halt at Tengiz, one of the world’s largest oilfields, and Korolev is temporary, and downward pressure from an expected rise in U.S. crude inventories along with geopolitical tension will persist, IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said on Wednesday. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday there was “no going back” on his goal to control Greenland. Last week he vowed to implement a wave of increasing tariffs on European allies until the U.S. is allowed to buy the Arctic island. The increased geopolitical tensions, which add pressure to the oil markets as tariffs could slow economic growth, were adding to risk-off sentiment, said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo. U.S. crude oil and gasoline stockpiles were expected to have risen last week, while distillate inventories likely fell, a preliminary Reuters poll showed on Tuesday. Six analysts polled by Reuters estimated on average that crude inventories rose by about 1.7 million barrels in the week to January 16. The American Petroleum Institute weekly inventory data is due at 4:30 p.m. EST (2130 GMT) on Wednesday, and figures from the Energy Information Administration, the statistical arm of the U.S. Department of Energy, are due at 12 p.m. EST (1700 GMT) on Thursday, both a day later due to a U.S. federal holiday on Monday. While such inventory growth would be negative for oil prices, Gregory Brew, senior analyst with the Eurasia Group consultancy, said the potential for U.S.-Iran tensions to re-escalate would be supportive. Trump threatened to strike Iran over its violent crackdown on anti-government protests earlier this month. (Reporting by Stephanie Kelly in London, Katya Golubkova in Tokyo and Emily Chow in Singapore. Editing by Mark Potter, Kirsten Donovan) [...]

India fertiliser imports set for record $18 billion this fiscal year

January 21, 2026 11:53

MUMBAI: India’s fertiliser imports for the current fiscal year are expected to surge 76% from a year earlier to a record $18 billion, government and industry officials said on Wednesday as consumption jumped after heavy rains prompted farmers to expand their crop areas. “There has been a sharp rise in urea and DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) imports this year, which is pushing up the overall fertiliser import bill,” said a government official, who declined to be named because they were not authorised to speak publicly. In the first nine months of the fiscal year that ends in March, India’s fertiliser imports surged 71% from a year earlier to $13.98 billion. In the March quarter, a large volume of urea and other fertiliser shipments is expected to land, which will cost at least another $4 billion, the official said. India spent $10.23 billion on fertiliser imports in the last fiscal year after hitting an all-time high of $17.21 billion in 2022-2023 when global prices surged following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. India’s Dec quarter cotton imports soar amid duty-free import push Fertiliser consumption is expected to rise by at least 5% this year from a year earlier, as ample monsoon rainfall encouraged farmers to increase planting, said P.S. Gahlaut, managing director of Indian Potash, a leading importer. India recorded 8% above-average rainfall during the June–to-September southwest monsoon, followed by precipitation that was 49% higher than normal in October, providing ample soil moisture for the sowing of winter crops like wheat, rapeseed and chickpeas. Indian farmers have so far planted winter-grown crops on 65.23 million hectares since sowing began on October 1, up 3.3% from a year earlier, data from the agricultural ministry showed. “Urea consumption has gone up this year because of good back-to-back monsoon rains and strong rice acreage,” said S. Sankarasubramanian, chairman of the Fertiliser Association of India, an industry body representing fertiliser producers. “Maize production has also pushed up urea consumption.” Urea imports are expected to rise as much as 61% from a year earlier to 9 million metric tons, while DAP imports could jump 52% to 7 million tons, Sankarasubramanian said. India imports urea and DAP mainly from Oman, Russia, China, Saudi Arabia and Morocco. [...]

Spain’s Albares says India-EU on cusp of trade deal, plan stronger defence ties

January 21, 2026 11:48

NEW DELHI: A historic India-EU trade deal will likely be concluded in the next few days, Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said on a visit to New Delhi on Wednesday, framing the agreement as a measure of security against economic coercion. The deal, coming on the heels of an agreement signed on Monday between the European Union and Mercosur, would create the world’s largest free-trade zone, a powerful signal as U.S. President Donald Trump imposes steep tariffs on India and threatens higher tariffs on Europe for its refusal to support his plans to take Greenland against its will. “Everything is going forward perfectly. We do not expect any obstacle,” Albares said after bilateral meetings with India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and President Droupadi Murmu in Delhi. “We need to make clear to the whole world that we believe in free trade and have the instruments of dissuasion to protect ourselves from any economic coercion,” Albares said. EU nears historic trade deal with India, von der Leyen says European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to arrive in India on Sunday evening to finalise the sticking points - primarily over carbon levies and import duties for key sectors such as autos and steel - ahead of an EU-India summit on January 27. Von der Leyen has said the deal would create a market of 2 billion people, accounting for nearly a quarter of global GDP. Trade in goods between the EU and India has increased by almost 90% in the past decade, according to EU data, valued at 120 billion euros ($140.47 billion) in 2024. Closer defence ties Addressing the Spanish delegation on Wednesday, India’s Foreign Minister Jaishankar said he saw “considerable potential” for more economic partnerships between the two countries, singling out a joint commitment to building resilient manufacturing capabilities in defence. Trade deal with EU close, says India trade secretary A joint venture between Airbus and Indian conglomerate Tata Group to build C-295 aircraft in India was an example of the type of trade relationship that should be replicated, Albares added. The first made-in-India Airbus aircraft, produced at a joint facility with Indian conglomerate Tata Group in the western state of Gujarat, is expected to roll off production lines before September 2026, Jaishankar said, slightly ahead of schedule. [...]

NLC Dry Port Sost ensures uninterrupted trade for 2nd consecutive year

January 21, 2026 11:47

As a shining example of national service and professional excellence, the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) is ensuring all-weather trade operations through the Khunjerab Pass for the 2nd consecutive year reaffirming its commitment to uninterrupted trade with China and Central Asia. Despite extreme weather conditions and intermittent spells of snowfall, NLC Dry Port Sost has remained fully functional ensuring continuous flow of trade between Pakistan China and the Central Asian region. The achievement demonstrates NLC’s operational resilience in one of the world’s most challenging terrains. For the smooth flow of trade, NLC has made significant investments in modern infrastructure including installation of modern scanners, weighbridge, expanded warehousing and other facilities.These facilities have translated into a marked increase in trade volumes even during peak winter months. In December alone, Dry Port Sost handled 12,000 MT of import and export cargo. Meanwhile, during the first two weeks of January 2026, around 11,000 MT of import / export cargo was handled in addition to processing of 132 empty containers from China. Further strengthening regional trade integration, NLC in collaboration with Chinese freight operators has set up joint logistics company aimed at facilitating forward transit trade with China and Central Asian states. This initiative has streamlined cross-border logistics and improved supply chain efficiency across the region. Beyond trade facilitation, NLC Dry Port Sost has emerged as a sustainable source of employment for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan contributing to local livelihoods and stimulating socio-economic development. The port’s uninterrupted operations have not only strengthened Pakistan-China trade ties but have also triggered a new phase of economic activities in the region. [...]

No matter who buys Warner Bros, JPMorgan and Allen & Co win with $180 million in M&A fees

January 21, 2026 11:39

NEW YORK: Some clear winners are emerging in the bidding war between Netflix and Paramount Skydance for Warner Bros Discovery: JPMorgan and Allen & Company. The two investment banks stand to make $90 million apiece for their work on the deal as advisers to Warner Bros, according to a securities filing released on Tuesday. JPMorgan has already earned significantly more on top of that for its role financing a $17.5 billion bridge loan that allowed Warner Bros Discovery to cleave off its cable news networks and sports programming, including CNN, from its movie and television division, two people familiar with the deal said. They asked not to be named to discuss internal matters. JPMorgan declined to comment. Allen & Company did not return a request for comment. The battle over Warner Bros escalated this week with a revised $83 billion offer from Netflix for its studio and streaming businesses. Netflix defends Warner Bros bid as shares drop on tepid results All eyes now turn to Paramount, whose $108 billion tender offer for the entire company closes on Wednesday. It is widely expected to at least extend its existing offer, while investors hope it will counter with even more money. Warner Bros, in the meantime, is spending hundreds of millions of dollars in fees to separate its two lines of business and sell the company. Bridge loan fees JPMorgan has already earned $189 million in financing and other fees ahead of the sale, Warner Bros said. Those fees were for its work on a complex bond transaction and bridge loan that split the company in two prior to the sale, according to two people familiar with the plan. Paramount makes $108.4 billion hostile bid for Warner Bros Discovery That’s on top of $90 million in M&A fees JPMorgan and Allen & Company each will make, no matter which rival production house nabs the owner of HBO Max and the “Harry Potter” franchise. Both Netflix and Paramount Skydance want Warner Bros for its film and television studios, extensive content library and major franchises, which also include “Game of Thrones” and DC Comics superheroes Batman and Superman. It is a marquee asset that does not come on the market often, analysts and investors say. Breakdown of fees JPMorgan, which LSEG ranked No. 2 on M&A globally last year with $3.1 billion in total fees, stands to make $282 million from Warner Bros, all told, the securities filing shows. Larry Ellison gives $40.4 billion guarantee for Paramount’s Warner Bros bid More than half of that, $189 million, comes from financing and other fees from the bridge loan. The bank was paid $15 million for delivering fairness opinions on the original Netflix offer in December and its revised offer this week. It stands to make another $30 million in M&A fees by December 1. It will receive another $45 million once the deal closes. Netflix paid the bank an additional $3 million in fees over the past two years. JPMorgan worked with Warner Bros for more than two years analyzing the best M&A options for the studio, coming up with a risky plan to split it in two, one of the people said. To do so, Warner Bros bought back about half of its bonds at a discount, financing the purchase with a $17.5 billion bridge loan from JPMorgan, they said. One of the people said it’s the largest non-investment-grade bridge loan ever made on Wall Street. Netflix to buy Warner Bros Discovery’s studios, streaming unit for $72 billion Bondholders were given a shortened window of five days to take the offer, which reduced Warner Bros’ gross debt by $2.2 billion, the company has said. Allen & Company also stands to make at least $90 million on the deal. One of the board directors at Warner Bros, Paul Gould, is a managing director at Allen & Company, according to Warner Bros. At least $6 million of that has been paid to Allen & Company over the previous two years. Allen & Company earned $20 million for its fairness opinions on the Netflix offers. It is on track to make $30 million in M&A fees by December 1. The boutique investment bank will get another $40 million once the deal closes. Netflix, Warner Bros bonds among $100 million purchased by Trump Warner Bros said Gould, who was originally on the board of Discovery Holding Co before it merged with Discovery, does not sit on the transaction advisory team for the merger and will not personally receive any fees tied to it. These fees do not reflect Warner Bros’ total expenses on the deal. It has not disclosed how much it is paying Evercore or its legal advisers, including Debevoise and Plimpton, Kirkland and Ellis, and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen and Katz. The $180 million is likely a fraction of what is being spent in the bidding war, since it also does not include fees paid by Netflix and Paramount to their financial and legal advisers. [...]

NA passes two key bills

January 22, 2026 12:22

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly on Wednesday passed the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2026, allowing lawmakers to withhold the disclosure of their assets and liabilities if making them public could seriously threaten the life or safety of the member or their family. This development came at a crucial time, as Pakistan has agreed to conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to make the asset declarations of high-level officials publicly available. The government had pledged to make these declarations accessible online by December 2026. The National Assembly also passed “The Corporate Social Responsibility Bill, 2026”, bringing the banking sector and state-owned enterprises under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which requires large and profitable companies to spend one percent of their profits on CSR activities. READ MORE: NA panel clears CSR Bill after seeking comments from SECP & L&JD Shazia Atta Marri and Dr Nafisa Shah of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) separately tabled the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Corporate Social Responsibility Bill, 2026, as private members’ bills in the House. The House passed the both bills with majority votes. According to clause six of the bill which amends the section 138 of “The Elections Act, 2017,” “Provided that the Speaker of the concerned Assembly or, as the case may be, the chairman of the senate, on an application made by a member and for reasons to be recorded in writing, by a ruling delivered in the chamber, determine that the statement of assets and liabilities of that member shall not be published publicly by the Commission if such publication pose a serious threat to the life or safety of the members or, as the case may be, his family, for a period not exceeding one year at a time and subject to the condition that a complete and true statement of assets and liabilities shall be submitted confidentially to the Election Commission. According to the bill, the role of election disputes is being given to the Federal Constitutional Court. Under the approved amendments, several sections of the Elections Act, 2017 have been revised to replace the term “Supreme Court” with “Federal Constitutional Court”. Section 9 has been amended to include the Federal Constitutional Court. Section 66 now formally brings the court within the jurisdiction framework. Section 104 and 104A have been amended to assign election dispute matters to the Federal Constitutional Court. As a result, election-related appeals, disputes, and legal interpretation under election laws will now fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Constitutional Court, which was established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment. The bill now needs approval from the Senate and the President’s assent before it becomes law. However, the opposition opposed the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2026. During the debate, Acting Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Barrister Gohar opposed the bill, arguing that routine election matters were being shifted from the Supreme Court to the Constitutional Court unnecessarily. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Aurangzeb meets Visa Group president

January 22, 2026 12:06

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met on Wednesday in Davos with Oliver Jenkyn, Group President of Visa, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in digital payments, financial innovation, and supporting Pakistan’s transition toward a modern, digitally enabled economy.During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on Pakistan’s evolving economic landscape and ongoing engagement with global payment networks. Jenkyn reaffirmed Visa’s long-term commitment to Pakistan, emphasising the company’s strong interest in supporting the country’s next phase of growth through innovation, secure payment solutions, and knowledge transfer. He highlighted the global shift toward digital payments and underscored the importance of policy clarity, openness, and an enabling environment to allow international partners to bring innovation to market at scale. Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb welcomed Visa’s continued engagement and noted that policy consistency and a clear reform roadmap remained central to Pakistan’s economic strategy. He shared that the government was actively working to strengthen the broader digital ecosystem, including improvements in connectivity, financial infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks, to support innovation and private sector participation. The Finance Minister emphasized that collaboration between global payment networks and local solutions would play a key role in accelerating financial inclusion and digital adoption. The finance minister also highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency, documentation of the economy, and digitization across sectors, noting that these reforms were creating new opportunities for trusted global partners to contribute meaningfully. He shared that the establishment of dedicated digital and regulatory institutions reflected the government’s commitment to positioning Pakistan as a “Digital Nation,” capable of supporting innovation while safeguarding economic stability. Jenkyn underscored the value that global platforms such as Visa bring through security standards, resilience, and the ability to scale solutions rapidly. He emphasized the importance of balanced and healthy collaboration between governments, regulators, and private sector partners, and expressed Visa’s readiness to continue sharing global perspectives and best practices as financial technologies evolve. He also noted that rising tourism and cross-border activity would further support the expansion of international payment solutions in Pakistan. Both sides agreed on the importance of staying closely engaged as digital finance continues to evolve globally and locally, and expressed confidence that sustained collaboration would yield practical, market-ready solutions over the coming years. Jenkyn reiterated Visa’s commitment to continued investment in Pakistan and requested that the company be considered a trusted partner across relevant policy and reform initiatives. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

KE dispute: Gulf investors launch USD2bn arbitration case

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: The Saudi and Kuwaiti investors in K-Electric (KE) have accused both the Power Division, including the minister, and National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) of behaving in a way that hit their financial rights in the power utility company. These charges are part of USD 2 billion international arbitration filed by Abdul Aziz Hamad A Aljomaih, combined National Industries Holding Company for Energy KSC and others against the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The international law firms, Steptoe and Omnia sent the notice of arbitration to Attorney General of Pakistan, Mansoor Ali Khan and Someir Siraj Khan, Head, International Disputes Unit Office of the Attorney General for Pakistan whereas copies of notice have also been sent to Prime Minister, Minister of Finance & Revenue, Minister for Energy (Power Division), Minister for Law & Justice, Federal Minister for Privatisation, Secretary Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), Governor State Bank of Pakistan and Rizwan Pesnani, Secretary K-Electric Limited. According to the arbitration notice the claimants (Al-Jomaih and others) have not brought this arbitration lightly. They issued notices in respect of domestic law breaches at the time they occurred. They have given the State every opportunity to remedy the failings. Regrettably, the State has repeatedly delayed, reversed course inexplicably, or failed to act entirely. Most recently, the claimants issued a Notice of Dispute under Article 17 of the OIC Investment Agreement and, despite the passage of some three months, the State failed or refused to participate in any form of conciliation. The result is that Pakistan’s largest foreign private power investment has been rendered commercially unviable (amounting to a substantial deprivation of the economic use and value of the claimants’ investments), while politically favoured actors have been permitted to benefit from the State’s inaction. In those circumstances, the claimants have been left with no other choice than to protect their investment through this arbitration. The notice says, the KE is a fully integrated Pakistani power generation and distribution company into which the claimants have made substantial long-term investments since its privatisation in 2005. Since that time, the claimants have consistently and diligently worked to promote KE’s growth and commercial success, to the benefit of KE itself, the people of Pakistan and Karachi in particular, and KE’s other shareholders. The KE has been transformed from a corruption-ridden utility company, reliant on federal government support, into a professionally managed, profitable, private-sector enterprise that materially reduced system losses and reinvested earnings to strengthen and expand the business. This transformation has been achieved through disciplined management and sustained capital commitment, including equity contributions and third-party debt financing, which together have enabled KE to invest over USD 4.7 billion across the power value chain in Karachi’s power infrastructure between 2005 to 2025. These investments have delivered substantial operational efficiencies and have generated savings to the Respondent (the GoP) in excess of USD 3 billion. Notably, since privatisation, the claimants have not received any dividends: 100 percent of the profits earned since 2005 have been retained and reinvested into the business. In addition to their investments in KE, the Saudi investors hold investments in Pakistan via a financial interest in the proceeds of the sale of shares in Cnergyico – a transaction in which sale proceeds were subsequently misappropriated. The Saudi investors are not alone in this regard. There are numerous other Middle Eastern investors who have an interest in those same proceeds and KE, and whose interests the State is also required to safeguard. Further, in their letter of November 12, 2025, the claimants put the respondent on notice of their intent to submit this Notice of Arbitration (NoA) in accordance with Article 17 of the OIC Investment Agreement. The claimants stated that the respondent’s lack of acknowledgment or substantive response to their Notice of Dispute (NoD) was indicative of the Parties’ inability to agree on conciliation. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Kaspersky issues report on cyber scams

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: A Russian cyber security company Wednesday disclosed that 88.5 percent of cyber attacks including phishing and scam campaign sought credentials for various online accounts during 2025. In this regard, the company has issued a report here on Wednesday. According to the report, Kaspersky analyzed phishing and scam campaigns found that 88.5% of attacks sought credentials for various online accounts. Another 9.5 percent targeted personal data such as names, addresses, and dates of birth, while 2% focused on bank card details during 2025. According to data from Kaspersky, millions of phishing links were clicked in the previous year– all of which were detected and blocked by Kaspersky solutions. Not everyone uses protective solutions on their devices however, and phishing remains one of the most prevalent cyber threats, with attackers luring users to fake websites where they unwittingly surrender their login credentials, personal information, or bank card details. Kaspersky research showed that most phishing pages transmit stolen information via email, Telegram bots, or attacker-controlled panels, before it enters underground resale channels. Data stolen through phishing is rarely used only once: credentials from multiple campaigns are consolidated into data dumps and sold on dark web markets, in some cases for as little as USD50. Buyers sort and verify the data to check whether accounts remain active and reusable across different services. According to Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence, average 2025 prices ranged from USD0.90 for global internet portals to USD105 for crypto platforms and $350 for online banking access. Personal documents such as passports or ID cards sold for about USD15 on average, with pricing influenced by account age, balance, linked payment methods, and security settings. As datasets are enriched and combined, attackers can build detailed digital profiles that may later support targeted attacks on executives, finance staff, IT-administrators or individuals with valuable assets or personal documents. To reduce the risks associated with phishing, Kaspersky recommended that users should not trust links or attachments received by email or messages. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Fauji Foundation launches country’s largest cloud, AI infrastructure platform

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Fauji Foundation, Lt General Anwar Ali Hyder (retd) on Wednesday has inaugurated Pakistan’s largest cloud and AI infrastructure platform Sky47, saying that the step will accelerate shift towards a digital economy, the availability of secure, sovereign, and scalable digital infrastructure. Addressing the launch ceremony, he said that the Sky47 Cloud and AI platform is designed to provide enterprise-grade, locally hosted digital infrastructure, enabling businesses, government institutions, and innovators to deploy mission-critical workloads within Pakistan while meeting international standards for security, reliability, and compliance. Anwar Ali Hyder emphasised the strategic role of digital infrastructure in national development and highlighted the importance of building long-term, resilient platforms that strengthen Pakistan’s economic and technological independence. Sky47’s infrastructure features high-density cloud environments and AI-ready compute capabilities, making it the largest cloud and AI farm currently operational in Pakistan. The platform is engineered to support advanced digital workloads across key sectors, including finance, telecommunications, government services, healthcare, and emerging AI-driven industries. Hassan Abbas, Chief Executive Officer of Sky47, stated that the platform addresses a clear national requirement for locally hosted, enterprise-grade cloud and AI services. He noted that Sky47 has been built with a long-term vision to serve as a foundational layer for Pakistan’s digital economy, ensuring data sovereignty, operational resilience, and scalability for future growth. The launch event also included technology briefings and live demonstrations, showcasing the platform’s performance and reliability. These demonstrations, developed in collaboration with leading global technology partners, highlighted Sky47’s readiness to support high-availability and high-performance workloads at scale. With this launch, Sky47 positions itself as a key enabler of Pakistan’s digital transformation, providing organizations with the infrastructure required to innovate confidently while retaining control over critical data and systems within national borders. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

ATC seeks fresh report from SBP on Aleema bank accounts

January 21, 2026 11:57

RAWALINDI: The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Monday hearing a case against incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan‘s sister Aleema Khan sought fresh report from State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) regarding her bank accounts. ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah, hearing the case registered in the connection with PTI November 26, 2025 protest also sought report from National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and Directorate of Immigration and Passport. During the hearing, Aleema Khan counsel Faisal Malik completed cross examination of more five prosecution witnesses. Court also granted approval plea seeking to send three books to Imran Khan in jail. The court adjourned hearing of the case till January 26. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Upward trend observed in terrorism attacks

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: An upward trend in terrorist attacks across various parts of Pakistan in 2025 has raised questions about the effectiveness of the country’s counterterrorism efforts, as the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan continue to live amid a pervasive sense of insecurity. A senior defence official rejected this impression, stating that terrorists no longer have any bases or sanctuaries anywhere in Pakistan. “The primary reason for the higher number of incidents in KP is the politically conducive environment that has allowed terrorists to grow,” the official said, quoting the DG ISPR’s remarks made during a detailed briefing. According to Pakistan Security Report 2025 released by the Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS), terrorism in Pakistan rose by 34 percent in 2025, despite record counter-militancy operations that resulted in the killing of 1,313 militants in military actions and armed clashes with security forces. The report stated that the country witnessed 699 terrorist attacks, resulting in at least 1,034 deaths and 1,366 injuries. International Crisis Group (ICG) said that Pakistan, with a fragile democratic transition, faces the dual challenges of political instability and “poorly designed counter-terrorism strategies”. Syed Akhtar Ali Shah former Secretary for Home and Tribal Affairs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, differed with the ICG’s assessment, arguing that at least on paper, Pakistan had formulated a balanced and pragmatic strategy to address terrorism and security challenges. “Our 20-point National Action Plan can be described as an effective strategy. However, its selective implementation created a lot of problems,” said Shah, who also heads the Peshawar-based think tank, Good Governance Forum. He noted that Pakistan’s policy primarily focused on targeting militants involved in terrorist attacks and suicide bombings, while ignoring the core structures responsible for recruitment. “We are not targeting the nucleus, which continues to recruit fresh militants from different segments of society,” he said. Shah further pointed out that the lack of coordination between the federal government and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, coupled with the lacklustre cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan, has provided militants with tactical and strategic advantages, which they continue to exploit to avoid isolation. While the TTP poses a significant threat, terrorist activities existed even before the group’s formation, he pointed out. Shah also noted that the organizational structures of all militant groups, including the TTP, remain intact. Terrorists, he said, have been confronted physically but not ideologically or digitally. He emphasized that Pakistan must fully implement its 20-point National Action Plan to effectively contain terrorism and curb violence. “Reliance on a purely militarized approach will not yield the desired results. Good governance, improved coordination between the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments, and enhanced cooperation with Afghanistan can help Pakistan achieve success in the war against terrorism,” Shah suggested. This scribe contacted PTI leader Sheheryar Afridi and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information, Shafi Jan, to seek their comments on federal and KP government coordination in the war on terror, but they did not respond to calls or WhatsApp messages till the filing of this report. In its February 2025 report, the United Nations stated that al-Qaeda affiliates, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, and Yemen’s Ansarullah movement, were accessing Taliban-captured weapons or buying them on the black market after the US led alliance left the country. According to a UN report, foreign terrorist groups based in Afghanistan take the Taliban victory as a motivation to disseminate their propaganda in Central and South Asia regions, and globally with active presence of such groups in Afghanistan including Al-Qaeda, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State in Khorasan (IS-K). The defence official agreed with most of the findings of these reports, stating that Afghanistan has become a “centre for terrorism” in the region, with several extremist groups present and active. He said militants cross over from Afghanistan, briefly stay in Pakistan, and then return after carrying out their activities. According to him, terrorist support, training and logistical networks exist in parts of Afghanistan, and this external environment has contributed to terrorist incidents in Pakistan. He said Pakistan’s security forces have been conducting intelligence-based operations (IBOs) for the past several years but are avoiding large-scale operations due to the displacement such actions cause in affected areas. The official added that when Ali Amin Gandapur was the KP chief minister, the federal cabinet approved Rs4–5 billion to support people who might be displaced by any future military operation. “We do not know the exact current status of that fund,” he said. Dr Ashraf Ali, an expert on Afghan affairs and militancy, acknowledged Pakistan’s gains against militancy but cautioned that military successes tend to be short-lived if they are not supported by political, economic and developmental measures. “What we failed in was the absence of an action plan on the social, political and economic fronts. We also failed to establish an effective governance structure in the tribal districts, formerly known as FATA,” he said. He added that strained relations with Afghanistan, coupled with a governance vacuum in the ex-FATA districts, have provided militants with opportunities to retreat to their hideouts after carrying out terrorist attacks in different parts of the troubled region. He further said that, unlike the PPP-ANP governments in the past, the present PML-N government at the centre and the PTI government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are not prepared to publicly own and lead the war on terror. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

PRA revenue increases 33pc, collects Rs149.5bn during 1H FY2025-26

January 21, 2026 11:57

LAHORE: The recent performance of the Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) is a clear reflection that the provincial government is moving in the right direction of financial discipline, transparency, and tax reforms Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman expressed these views during his visit to the Punjab Revenue Authority Headquarters the other day where he was given a detailed briefing on PRA’s overall performance for the ongoing fiscal year by Chairman Punjab Revenue Authority Muazzam Iqbal Sappra. During the first half of the fiscal year 2025–26, the PRA recorded collections of Rs149.5 billion, registering a significant 33 percent increase which marks a major achievement for the Authority, the Minister remarked. The PRA chairman informed the minister that if the PRA continues to progress with the same pace and strategy, it will not only achieve its assigned targets by the end of the fiscal year but will also set new records in tax collection. He also briefed the finance minister on the ongoing measures aimed at expanding the revenue base across various service sectors, including banking, insurance, restaurants, hotels, property development, construction, franchise services, food delivery platforms, stock brokerage, and transportation. It was shared during the briefing that these initiatives are expected to generate additional revenues amounting to billions of rupees. Addressing the meeting, the Finance Minister stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the government’s focus is on expanding the tax net, enhancing transparency, and eliminating all avenues of tax evasion rather than imposing new taxes. He emphasized that the PRA must further improve its performance through effective enforcement, data-based monitoring, and institutional reforms to ensure sustainable economic growth coupled with good governance in the province. He remarked that increased revenue generation serves as the backbone of the Punjab government’s development agenda. He added that improved financial resources would directly benefit the public in the form of better education, healthcare, social protection, and infrastructure. “This is the foundation upon which a strong and self-reliant Punjab can be built,” he said. The minister also appreciated the ongoing organizational reforms within the Punjab Revenue Authority, including the establishment of a large taxpayer’s office, creation of audit and vigilance wings, new recruitments, and amendments to service rules. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring recovery of outstanding dues and future compliance through close coordination with federal institutions and provincial departments. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Musadiq visits landfill site for SSWMB

January 21, 2026 11:57

KARACHI: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadiq Masood Malik, on Wednesday, visited the under-construction sanitary engineered landfill site Jam Chakro under Sindh Solid Waste Management Board. The landfill site has a capacity to dispose of 10,000 tons of waste per day. Sindh Secretary Environment, Zubair Ahmed Channa, Managing Director SSWMB, Tariq Ali Niz-amani, Secretary SSWMB, Nowruz Abbasi, World Bank officials and other concerned officers were present. SSWMB’s Consultant Environment, Farhan Lodhi, gave a detailed briefing regarding the ongoing construction and development works at the landfill site. He said that five new sanitary landfill cells were being constructed at the Jam Chakro landfill site, which included complete sanitary infrastructure as per international standards i.e. a leach ate management system and a landfill gas collection system. That, a plan was underway to cap and rehabilitate the old waste-site spread over an area of 108 hectares, with an estimated 40 million tons of waste present. These projects would be funded by dollars 20 million in climate finance funding, which was being provided under the Pak Flow Project and was being monitored by the World Bank. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Traders call on governor to discuss Gul Plaza matters

January 21, 2026 11:57

KARACHI: Businessmen delegation, headed by Karachi Chamber’s senior leader MJawed Bilwani, called on Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori for the second time, at the Governor House on Wednesday. They requested the Governor to pursue the Federal government for an immediate and matching financial package for the compensation and rehabilitation of the affectees of the Gul Plaza inferno. President, Gul Plaza Shopping Mall, Tanveer Pasta appreciated the Governor’s quick and efficient response to the fire incident in the extremely challenging circumstances, mentioning that the Governor played a prompt and practical role to push the rescue operation, also engaged Karachi Port Trust and Pakistan Navy’s fire-fighting teams and the systems. He thanked the Governor for raising his voice at every forum for the earliest rehabilitation of the affected people of Gul Plaza. On this occasion, various proposals regarding the rehabilitation of Gul Plaza affectees, the protection of business activities, and the prevention of such incidents in the future were discussed. The Governor reiterated his commitment that the affected people would not be left alone and assured that the government would utilize all available resources for their timely rehabilitation. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

FPCCI begins fund-raising for rehabilitation of Gul Plaza affectees

January 21, 2026 11:57

KARACHI: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry sets up a fund for the Gul Plaza Shopping Mall blaze affectees and so far Rupees 10 million have been raised. This was announced by FPCCI President Atif Ikram, during his visit to Gul Plaza along with his office bearers’ team. He said that initially the target amount of the fund was Rs five million, but the business community wanted to contribute maximum as they felt pain and had full sympathy with the grieved families of the deceased shopkeepers and the workers. He pledged that FPCCI, the apex trade body of the country, would continue to raise more funds even at the regional level. He assured that the FPCCI was standing with the affected traders and would do all possible for their relief and rehabilitation. “FPCCI shares the grief and pain of the national tragedy, especially irrecoverable human loss.” He said that FPCCI leadership would request the Federal and Sindh governments to come up with their emergency plans for the compensation and rehabilitation of the Gul Plaza affectees and release the matching amounts without delay. He regretted that the essential service of fire-brigade lacked the required gadgets and machinery to efficiently douse a fire of third degree. That’s why, he maintained, Gul Plaza could not be saved from tuning to rubble, besides the loss of many innocent lives. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

Gul Plaza fire is one of the worst tragedies in the history of Karachi: JI

January 21, 2026 11:57

KARACHI: Chief of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Karachi, Monem Zafar has said that the Gul Plaza incident is one of the worst tragedies in Karachi’s history and has exposed the gross incompetence of the Sindh government and the mayor of Karachi. Monem Zafar, along with JI District Secretary and UC Chairman Noman Hameed, visited the homes of two missing traders and two missing laborers affected by the Gul Plaza tragedy on Wednesday. He met the families, expressed solidarity with them, and assured them of Jamaat-e-Islami’s support. Speaking on the occasion, Monem Zafar said it was deeply alarming that even several hours after the incident, all bodies had not been recovered. He said this clearly reflected the failure and inefficiency of the Sindh government and the city administration. He said that high-rise commercial buildings across Karachi are being constructed and operated without proper safety arrangements, fire safety plans, or legal approvals. He alleged that the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) is playing with human lives through bribery and deliberate negligence. Monem Zafar stressed that if Gul Plaza had proper emergency exits, fire alarm systems, sprinklers, and basic rescue facilities, such a huge loss of precious lives could have been prevented. He added that the rescue operation was neither timely nor adequate, and the fire brigade failed to reach the site with the required machinery and capacity, leaving people trapped in smoke and flames. According to available information, 84 people are still missing, while 63 bodies have so far been recovered, highlighting the scale and seriousness of the tragedy. Jamaat-e-Islami demanded that the families of those who lost their lives be given immediate compensation without any delay. The party also called for full and adequate relief for all those affected by the Gul Plaza tragedy. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

IHC grants protective bail to Mazari, husband

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) granted two-day protective bail to lawyer Imaan Mazari and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha in a case registered under terrorism and attempted murder charges. A single bench of Justice Muhammad Azam Khan on Wednesday granted bail to Mazari and Chattha against surety bonds worth of Rs 10,000 and directed them to appear before the relevant court within two days. During the hearing Kamran Murtaza, representing the duo, argued that first time in the country’s judicial history a woman had to spend night on court premises — a reference to Mazari and Chattha’s stay at the IHCBA president’s office last night. He added that he personally felt responsible for what happened. He mentioned that there is an old FIR of the July 27 incident after which Mazari has in fact appeared in courts on multiple occasions and if the prosecution wanted to arrest Mazari, then they should have done so before. Kamran stressed that the FIR alleged a firing incident, whereas the suspect has not even touched a pistol. He also said that they are not enemies of the country and as much as you have the right, he also has the right to be in this building. The counsel requested the court to grant protective bail in the said case, along with other cases that he has not aware of. However, the court only granted protective bail to Mazari and Chattha in the said case. Both husband and wife on Tuesday filed pre-arrest bail applications in the case. However, their bail pleas could not be taken up on an urgent basis on Tuesday while the couple struggled to avoid arrest. They took refuge in the IHCBA president’s office, where they spent the whole night, while a large number of police officials remained outside the premises. The case is related to a first information report (FIR) registered at the Kohsar Police Station on October 27, 2025 in the federal capital relating to the Balock Yakjehti Committee’s (BYC) protest at the National Press Club (NPC). The FIR contained anti-terror provisions, Section 8 of the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024 along with Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) sections 440 (mischief committed after preparation made causing death or hurt); 395 (punishment for dacoity); 324 (attempt to commit qatl-i-amd); 341 (punishment for wrongful restraint); 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant); 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions); 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty); and 148 (rioting, armed with deadly weapon). The FIR alleged that Mazari, armed with a stick, attacked lady police constables and injured them, snatching their riot shields and vandalising public vehicles. Chattha, as per the FIR, allegedly armed with a pistol opened fire at a constable with the intention to kill him — which missed him — and further hurled death threats while waiving his pistol. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

NA: Stance of Khawaja Asif on 18th Amendment attracts criticism

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was thrown into a political storm in the National Assembly on Wednesday after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stunned lawmakers by branding the 18th Constitutional Amendment a “deception,” sparking a fierce backlash from its key ally, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). Asif, speaking in the House the previous day, launched a sharp critique of the historic amendment, claiming it had shifted all powers to provincial governments. His comments sent shockwaves through the Assembly, particularly from the government’s own key ally – the PPP. Reacting strongly to the minister’s statement, PPP’s Naveed Qamar accused the government of misleading the masses, warning that Asif’s remarks represented nothing less than a significant shift in policy. “You’ve experimented with this country time and again,” Qamar fired back. “Each time, you’ve divided the nation further. Now, you want to centralise provincial resources.” He condemned any attempt to reverse the 18th Amendment, warning that such a move would threaten the integrity of the country’s federal system. He urged the government to abandon its “experiments” and focus on resolving pressing constitutional issues instead. The criticism continued to mount, with PPP MNA Sahar Kamran adding her voice to the opposition. She accused Asif of trying to pave the way for military rule through his comments on local governance. Kamran’s criticism was sharp: “His dismissal of the fire brigade system was an insult,” she said, questioning whether Asif’s remarks reflected the official stance of the government. In response, the government sought to distance itself from Asif’s comments. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar was quick to clarify that the Defence Minister’s remarks were his personal views, not official policy. Meanwhile, the debate continued to heat up as opposition members from the PTI engaged in a fiery exchange with the government over security operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The government insisted on launching a military operation in certain parts of the province, including the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). However, PTI members accused the federal authorities of sidelining provincial leaders in the decision-making process. State Minister for the Interior, Talal Chaudhry, defended the operation, stressing that it was part of the ongoing implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) and that the KP government was fully on board. He also blamed the PTI provincial government for failing to tackle the rise in terrorism, pointing to the lack of a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in the province. This led to a strong rebuttal from PTI leader Asad Qaiser, who claimed that Chaudhry was simply a mouthpiece for the establishment and accused the ruling party of neglecting the NAP’s implementation. “I don’t need a certificate of patriotism from Talal,” he retorted, emphasising that PTI remained committed to eradicating terrorism. As the session progressed, Qaiser also pressed the government on the status of a bill he had introduced concerning the right to appeal in military courts, noting that it had stalled in committee without progress. Meanwhile, PTI’s Ali Mohammad Khan emphasised the need for dialogue between the government and opposition to resolve political differences. He called for constructive negotiations, particularly on issues such as the ongoing political crisis and the future of imprisoned PTI leaders, including Imran Khan. He also reiterated his belief that political leaders should engage respectfully, even in the face of disagreement, and criticised those who undermined the role of opposition parties. Responding to Khan, Talal Chaudhry noted that over 800 people had visited Imran Khan in jail, including a significant number of political leaders, and reassured the public that the former prime minister’s health remained stable despite ongoing concerns. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

PTI accuses govt of hurting prospects of constructive dialogue

January 21, 2026 11:57

ISLAMABAD: The embattled Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja on Wednesday slammed the government, demanding a drastic change in its approach if it is serious about holding meaningful negotiations with the opposition. Talking to reporters outside Parliament House, Raja insisted that the government’s “heavy-handed” tactics were blocking any chance of constructive dialogue. “If you [government] want to talk, change the tone,” he fired back, pointing out that a softer approach was essential for any meaningful engagement. The PTI leader revealed he had recently met with the newly appointed opposition leader in National Assembly Mahmood Achakzai and congratulated him. But his praise wasn’t limited to just meeting the flamboyant Baloch nationalist Achakzai, as he heaped glowing accolades on the recent speeches of both Achakzai and Allama Nasir Abbas in the National Assembly and Senate, respectively. “What they said in their maiden speeches in National and Senate was historic,” he declared, adding that the opposition leaders had struck the perfect balance, offering both clarity and a way forward in their addresses. Raja didn’t hold back in his critique of the government either. He accused it of “destroying the judiciary” and mismanaging Parliament, warning, “This country can’t be run like this.” He also tore into the state of the country’s economy, stating bluntly, “Your economy isn’t on its knees; it’s flat on its face. And your youth? They’re struggling, unable to find jobs.” Raja went on to relive PTI’s past struggles, recalling how millions of Karachiites rallied behind the party despite being denied access to key venues like Bagh-e-Jinnah. “They wouldn’t let us set up a stage, but not a single pot was broken,” he pointed out, highlighting the discipline of his supporters during the recent visit of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi to the port city of Karachi. He also took a swipe at the authorities for their heavy-handed tactics, referencing the arrest of 800 people in Lahore when Sohail Afridi visited the city. Tension soared as Raja took aim at the adviser to the prime minister on political affairs Rana Sanaullah Khan, accusing the government of sabotaging any real chance of dialogue. “If you’re serious about negotiations, you need to change your approach – and stop the violence and intimidation,” he reiterated, sending a clear message to the ruling elite. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026 [...]

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... [...]

Aircraft tragedy: Missing tourist helicopter found near Japan volcano crater

January 21, 2026 2:03

Aircraft Tragedy: Missing tourist helicopter found near Japan volcano craterA tourist sightseeing adventure turned into sad tragedy after a helicopter carrying two tourists in Japan went missing.Local reports and police officials informed that the aircraft took off from a zoo in Aso City at 10:52... [...]

Keir Starmer's China visit: UK follows Mark Carney in major reset of ties

January 21, 2026 12:39

Keir Starmer’s China visit: UK follows Mark Carney in major reset of tiesThe UK prime minister is set to reset strained ties with China in a highly-anticipated visit to Beijing expected at the end of January. According to sources privy to matter, the visit will aim to revive a “golden... [...]

South Korea's ex-PM Han Duck-soo jailed for 23 years over martial law crises

January 21, 2026 9:25

South Korea's ex-PM Han Duck-soo jailed for 23 years over martial law crisesA South Korean court on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, sentenced former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo to 23 years in jail for charges including engaging in a key action of insurrection concerning ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol's... [...]

Global markets on edge over Greenland dispute: Is US economic leadership at risk?

January 21, 2026 9:10

Global markets on edge over Greenland dispute: Is US economic leadership at risk? The US and EU tensions over Greenland have reached a critical point where the global markets have started witnessing the massive monetary and fiscal shockwaves. In the international order grappling with shifting... [...]

UK inflation unexpectedly rises to 3.4% in December, the first increase in five months

January 21, 2026 8:31

UK inflation unexpectedly rises to 3.4% in December, the first increase in five monthsAccording to the recent figures released by the Office for National Statistics , inflation in the UK has reportedly increased for the first time in five months, reaching 3.4% in December. The Office for National... [...]

Trump vows 'no going back' on Greenland ahead of Davos visit

January 21, 2026 7:30

Trump vows ‘no going back’ on Greenland ahead of Davos visitU.S. President Donald Trump has strengthened his campaign to acquire Greenland, stating that there is “no way of going back” on his ambitions as he prepares for a high stakes address at the World Economic Forum in... [...]

Japan's ex-PM Shinzo Abe's killer is set to be sentenced: How much punishment could he face?

January 21, 2026 5:33

Japan’s ex-PM Shinzo Abe’s killer is set to be sentenced: How much punishment could he face?Japan's Nara District Court is set to rule on the trial on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's assassin, bringing to an end a high-profile case that exposed... [...]

Therapist killed in office as former client launches knife attack

January 20, 2026 6:47

Therapist killed in office as former client launches knife attackA licensed mental health counsellor was killed in a stabbing at her office after a former client turned violent, in a case that has shocked the local community.Rebecca White was attacked on January 19 at a counselling centre in the... [...]

North Carolina woman accused of serving victims with poisoned drinks

January 20, 2026 3:54

A woman has been arrested in the US after police linked her to two murders nearly two decades apart by allegedly serving poisoned drinks.The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office said Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel now faces two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder... [...]

'Greenland will stay Greenland', former Trump adviser hints at new twist

January 20, 2026 2:52

'Greenland will stay Greenland', former Trump adviser hints at new twist'Greenland will stay Greenland.'A new twist about the world's most controversial debate reveals Donald Trump will not be able to force Greenland to change ownership, according to a former top adviser to the US president.As... [...]

Stranger knocks, then opens fire on Indiana judge and wife

January 20, 2026 1:43

Stranger knocks, then opens fire on Indiana judge and wifeAn Indiana judge and his wife were shot in broad daylight attack after a stranger knocked on the door of their home, authorities have said.Judge Steven Meyer was hit in the arm and his wife, Kimberly, was shot in the hip when the suspect... [...]

Japan unveils anti-ship missile with 'barrel-roll' evasion to outsmart defenses

January 20, 2026 1:13

Japan unveils anti-ship missile with ‘barrel-roll’ evasion to outsmart defensesJapan has unveiled its new anti-ship missile equipped with “barrel-roll” evasion to dodge enemy defenses in the midst of regional tensions and treacherous geopolitical landscape. The Japanese... [...]

Missouri couple 'locked sons in chicken pen, shot them' in shocking abuse case

January 20, 2026 12:17

Missouri couple ‘locked sons in chicken pen, shot them’ in shocking abuse caseA Missouri woman and her boyfriend have been accused of subjecting her children to years of shocking abuse, including allegedly locking two teenage boys inside a chicken pen and shooting at them with BB... [...]

Chinese 'mega embassy' wins UK approval in London ahead of Starmer's China visit

January 20, 2026 12:04

Chinese ‘mega embassy’ wins UK approval in London ahead of Starmer’s China visit The UK government has given greenlight to controversial Chinese mega embassy construction in east London , despite the allies’ objections and rising security concerns. Local government... [...]

From Chagos Islands to Greenland Trump flags national security risks: Here's why

January 20, 2026 10:22

From Chagos Islands to Greenland Trump flags national security risks: Here’s why Donald Trump has criticized the UK government for its “stupidity” and “weakness” over its plan to transfer the ownership of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The deal also includes... [...]

سانحہ گل پلازہ، CCTV کی مدد سے حکام نے آگ کی ٹائم لائن تیار کرلی

January 21, 2026 9:01

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January 21, 2026 9:01

ٹریفک ای چالان کے نام پر شہریوں کو لوٹنے والی 100 سے زائد جعلی ویب سائٹس بلاک کروادی گئیں۔پنجاب سیف سٹیز اتھارٹی کا کہنا ہے کہ جعلی ویب... [...]

سپریم کورٹ: ماہانہ اصلاحات ایکشن پلان اجلاس، سزائے موت اور فوجداری مقدمے کی جیل اپیلوں کاجائزہ

January 21, 2026 6:01

فوٹو: پی آئی ڈی چیف جسٹس پاکستان یحییٰ آفریدی کی زیر صدارت ماہانہ اصلاحات ایکشن پلان اجلاس میں سزائے موت اور فوجداری مقدمے کی جیل... [...]

لاہور: پالتو شیرنی کے حملے سے 8 سالہ بچی زخمی، کان اور گردن پر زخم آئے

January 21, 2026 6:01

علامتی فوٹولاہور میں پالتو شیرنی کے حملے سے 8 سالہ بچی زخمی ہوگئی، کان اور گردن پر زخم آئے۔پولیس کا کہنا ہے کہ بھیکے وال پنڈ میں... [...]

نشے میں ڈرائیونگ سے قتل خطا پر سزا و جرمانے کا بل قومی اسمبلی میں پیش

January 21, 2026 5:01

فائل فوٹوشراب، منشیات یا نشہ آور اشیاء کے زیر اثر دوران ڈرائیونگ پر ڈرائیور قتل خطا کا مرتکب ہوگا، بل قومی اسمبلی میں پیش کردیا... [...]

پاک کالونی پولیس مقابلہ، 35 مقدمات میں مطلوب ملزم ہلاک

January 21, 2026 5:01

فائل فوٹوپاک کالونی پولیس مقابلے میں ملزم ہلاک ہوگیا، جس سے اسلحہ پستول اور موٹر سائیکل برآمد ہوئی ہے۔ایس ایس پی کیماڑی کے مطابق... [...]

گل پلازا میں آگ لگنے کے دوران لوگوں کے باہر کا راستہ تلاش کرنے کی ویڈیو سامنے آگئی

January 21, 2026 5:01

... [...]

آئین کے آرٹیکل 51 اور 106 میں ترمیم کا بل قومی اسمبلی میں پیش

January 21, 2026 5:01

تحریک انصاف کے رکن محمد اسلم گھمن نے آئین کے آرٹیکل 51 اور 106 میں ترمیم کا بل قومی اسمبلی میں پیش کیا۔ بل کے مطابق صوبائی اسمبلی کی... [...]

18ویں ترمیم میں سب سے بڑا نعرہ اختیارات کی نچلی سطح تک منتقلی تھا، خواجہ آصف

January 21, 2026 4:01

وزیر دفاع خواجہ آصف : فائل فوٹو وزیر دفاع خواجہ آصف نے کہا ہے کہ 18ویں ترمیم میں سب سے بڑا نعرہ اختیارات کا نچلی سطح تک منتقلی کا... [...]

پاکستان اور کینیڈا کے درمیان معدنیات اور توانائی کے شعبوں میں تعاون بڑھانے پر اتفاق

January 21, 2026 3:01

فوٹو: پی آئی ڈی پاکستان اور کینیڈا کے درمیان معدنیات اور توانائی کے شعبوں میں تعاون بڑھانے پر اتفاق ہو گیا۔وزیرِ پیٹرولیم علی پرویز... [...]

گل پلازا کے ملبے سے نکلنے والا کیش متعلقہ اداروں کو دے دیا، چیف فائر افسر

January 21, 2026 3:01

فوٹو: اے پی پیکراچی کے ایم اے جناح روڈ پر جل کر خاکستر ہونے والے گل پلازا کے ملبے سے کیش نکلنے کا سلسلہ جاری ہے۔چیف فائر آفیسر ہمایوں... [...]

کراچی: کلکٹریٹ آف کسٹمز کی کارروائی، ساڑھے 5 کروڑ سے زائد مالیت کی چرس برآمد

January 21, 2026 3:01

فائل فوٹو۔کلکٹریٹ آف کسٹمز کراچی نے کارروائی کر کے ساڑھے 5 کروڑ روپے سے زائد مالیت کی چرس اسمگلنگ ناکام بنا دی۔ اسلام آباد سے ایف بی... [...]

سانحہ گل پلازا، لاشوں اور اعضاء کی شناخت کا عمل تیز

January 21, 2026 2:01

اے پی پیسانحہ گل پلازا کے 5 روز کے دوران لاگئی لاشوں اور اعضا ءکی شناخت کا عمل تیز کردیا گیا۔سٹیزن پولیس لائژن کمیٹی کے شناخت ہیڈ کے... [...]

گل پلازا آتشزدگی میں شہید ہونے والوں کے اہلِ خانہ آج بھی اپنے پیاروں کو پکار رہے ہیں

January 21, 2026 1:01

سانحہ گل پلازا غموں کی داستانیں چھوڑ گیا، کسی نے بیٹا کھویا، کسی کا بھائی بچھڑ گیا۔ہفتے کی رات لگنے والی آگ پر 33 گھنٹوں کے بعد قابو... [...]

پاکستان مشکل حالات سے باہر آچکا ہے، وزیر اعظم شہباز شریف

January 21, 2026 1:01

فائل فوٹو وزیراعظم شہباز شریف کا کہنا ہے کہ پاکستان مشکل حالات سے باہر آچکا ہے، ملک اقتصادی استحکام کی راہ پر گامزن ہے، نوجوان... [...]

ٹرمپ ایران پر حملے اور گرین لینڈ پر قبضے کی کوشش سے دستبردار

January 21, 2026 11:01

امریکا کے صدر ٹرمپ ایران پر حملے اور گرین لینڈ پر قبضے کی کوشش سے دستبردار ہونے پر مجبور ہوگئے۔ نیٹو اتحادیوں کے دباؤ کی وجہ سے صدر... [...]

ایران پر ممکنہ امریکی حملہ، اسرائیل نے دفاعی الرٹ بڑھادیا

January 21, 2026 10:01

ایران پر ممکنہ امریکی حملے کے پیش نظر اسرائیل نے دفاعی الرٹ بڑھادیا۔اسرائیلی میڈیا کے مطابق ایرانی قیادت امریکی حملے کے جواب میں... [...]

ایرانی میزائل حملوں سے بچنے کیلئے اسرائیلی مسافر طیارے دنیا بھر میں منتقل کرنا شروع

January 21, 2026 6:01

فوٹو: فائلاسرائیلی وزیر کا کہنا ہے کہ ایرانی میزائل حملوں سے بچنے کیلئے اسرائیلی ایئر لائنز اپنے جہازوں کو دنیا بھر میں منتقل کرنے... [...]

اگر امریکا نے حملہ کیا تو بھرپور جواب دیا جائے گا، عباس عراقچی

January 21, 2026 6:01

ایرانی وزیرخارجہ عباس عراقچی۔ایرانی وزیر خارجہ عباس عراقچی نے کہا ہے کہ اگر امریکا نے حملہ کیا تو بھرپور جواب دیا جائے گا، حالیہ... [...]

مصر، ترکیہ سمیت کئی ملک غزہ پیس بورڈ میں شمولیت پر راضی، یورپی ملکوں کا انکار

January 21, 2026 3:01

فائل فوٹو۔متحدہ عرب امارات کے بعد ترکیہ، مصر، آذربائیجان اور اسرائیل نے بھی امریکی صدر ٹرمپ کے بورڈ آف پیس میں شمولیت کی دعوت قبول... [...]

مجھے یورپ سے پیار ہے مگر وہ سیدھے راستے پر نہیں چل رہا، ٹرمپ

January 21, 2026 2:01

فوٹو: اے ایف پیامریکی صدر ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ نے کہا ہے کہ امریکا پوری دنیا کا معاشی انجن ہے، مجھے یورپ سے پیار ہے مگر وہ سیدھے راستے پر نہیں چل... [...]

گرین لینڈ کے حوالے سے صدر ٹرمپ کے سامنے نہیں جھکوں گا، برطانوی وزیراعظم

January 21, 2026 1:01

فائل فوٹو۔برطانوی وزیر اعظم سر کیئر اسٹارمر نے کہا ہے کہ گرین لینڈ کے حوالے سے صدر ٹرمپ کے سامنے نہیں جھکوں گا۔ لندن میں پارلیمنٹ... [...]

برطانیہ میں مہنگائی کی شرح میں غیر متوقع اضافہ

January 21, 2026 9:01

— فائل فوٹو برطانیہ میں مہنگائی کی شرح بڑھ کر 3.4 فیصد ہو گئی۔برطانوی میڈیا کی رپورٹ کے مطابق تمباکو اور فضائی سفر کے کرایوں میں اضافے... [...]

سابق جاپانی وزیراعظم شنزو آبے کے قاتل کو عمر قید کی سزا

January 21, 2026 9:01

کولاج فوٹوز: فائلجاپان کے سابق وزیرِاعظم شنزو آبے کے قاتل ٹیٹسویہ یاماگامی کو عدالت نے عمر قید کی سزا سنا دی ہے۔ غیر ملکی میڈیا... [...]

لندن میں بڑا چینی سفارتخانہ بنانے کے منصوبے کی منظوری، اپوزیشن کا سخت ردِعمل

January 21, 2026 9:01

— فائل فوٹو برطانیہ نے لندن میں بڑے چینی سفارتخانے کے قیام کے منصوبے کو منظور کرلیا۔برطانوی حکومت کے اس فیصلے پر اپوزیشن کی جانب سے... [...]

دبئی: قانونی چارہ جوئی مزید آسان، وکلا کیلئے نیا ڈیجیٹل پلیٹ فارم لانچ

January 21, 2026 9:01

— فائل فوٹودبئی میں قانونی کارروائیوں کو مزید آسان بنانے کےلیے دبئی پولیس نے وکلا کے لیے ایک نیا ڈیجیٹل پلیٹ فارم متعارف کروایا... [...]

گرین لینڈ تنازع: امریکی وزیرِ خزانہ نے تجارتی جنگ کے خدشات کو ’ہسٹیریا‘ قرار دیدیا

January 21, 2026 8:01

— فائل فوٹوامریکی وزیرِ خزانہ اسکاٹ بیسنٹ نے کہا کہ امریکا اور یورپی ممالک گرین لینڈ کے معاملے پر کسی حل تک پہنچ جائیں گے۔ یورپی... [...]

بھارتی فضائیہ کا تربیتی طیارہ حادثے کا شکار، ویڈیو منظر عام پر

January 21, 2026 8:01

— اسکرین گریببھارتی ریاست اترپردیش میں بھارتی فضائیہ کا تربیتی مائیکرولائٹ طیارہ کریش کرگیا۔بھارتی میڈیا رپورٹس کے مطابق اتر... [...]

ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ ایران کے خلاف فیصلہ کن آپشنز چاہتے ہیں، امریکی حکام

January 21, 2026 7:01

فائل فوٹوامریکی اخبار نے امریکی حکام کے حوالے سے کہا ہے کہ صدر ڈونلڈ ٹرمپ ایران کے خلاف فیصلہ کن آپشنز چاہتے ہیں۔امریکی حکام کا کہنا... [...]

پاک بھارت کشیدگی میں ناکامی کے بعد بھارت کا خلا سے نگرانی کا نظام مضبوط کرنے کا فیصلہ

January 21, 2026 7:01

بھارت نے پاکستان کے ساتھ جنگ میں ناکامی کے بعد خلا سے نگرانی کا نظام مضبوط کرنے کا فیصلہ کرلیا۔ بھارت 50 سے زائد... [...]

پنجاب حکومت نے پاسکو سے 7 لاکھ ٹن گندم خرید لی

January 21, 2026 11:01

فائل فوٹو پنجاب حکومت نے پاسکو سے 7 لاکھ ٹن گندم خرید لی۔ 3 لاکھ میٹرک ٹن کی پہلی کھیپ موصول ہوگئی۔ڈائریکٹر جنرل فوڈ امجد حفیظ کا کہنا... [...]

پاکستان میں پہلی بار سونا 5 لاکھ روپے فی تولہ ہوگیا

January 21, 2026 9:01

فائل فوٹوملکی تاریخ میں پہلی مرتبہ فی تولہ سونے کی قیمت 5 لاکھ روپے سے تجاوز کر گئی۔ آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی ایشن... [...]

دو دن تیزی کے بعد پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں آج مندی کا رجحان

January 21, 2026 9:01

---فائل فوٹو کاروباری ہفتے کے آغاز پر مسلسل دو دن مثبت رجحان رہنے کے بعد پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں آج مندی کا رجحان دیکھا جا رہا... [...]

سال 2026 کیلئے گندم کی قیمت 3500 روپے فی من مقرر، نوٹیفکیشن جاری

January 21, 2026 8:01

رواں سال 2026ء کے لیے گندم کی قیمت 3 ہزار 500 روپے فی من مقرر کر دی گئی۔ حکومتِ پنجاب کی جانب سے جاری کیے گئے نوٹیفکیشن کے مطابق... [...]

ایف بی آر کے پرال سسٹم میں بغیر انٹریز سے 2 کروڑ سے زائد ریونیو کا نقصان

January 20, 2026 12:01

فیڈرل بورڈ آف ریونیو کے پرال سسٹم میں بغیر انٹریز سے 2 کروڑ 13 لاکھ روپے کے ریونیو نقصان کا انکشاف سامنے آیا ہے۔ پبلک اکاؤنٹس کمیٹی... [...]

سونے کی فی تولہ قیمت میں یکمشت 4300 روپے کا اضافہ

January 20, 2026 11:01

ملک میں سونے کی فی تولہ قیمت میں یکمشت 4300 روپے کا اضافہ ہوگیا۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی ایشن کے مطابق 4300 روپے کے... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں مثبت رجحان

January 20, 2026 5:01

فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے دوسرے دن مثبت رجحان دیکھا جارہا ہے۔بازار حصص میں کاروبار کے دوران 100 انڈیکس 309... [...]

ملکی تاریخ میں پہلی بار آئی ٹی برآمدات میں ریکارڈ اضافہ

January 20, 2026 5:01

فائل فوٹوملکی تاریخ میں پہلی بار ایک ماہ میں آئی ٹی برآمدات 400 ملین ڈالر کی حد عبور کرگئیں۔جاری کردہ اعداد و شمار کے مطابق دسمبر 2025... [...]

گلف نیوز نے بھی پاکستانی چاول کی عالمی سطح پر پذیرائی پر مہر ثبت کردی

January 19, 2026 6:01

—فائل فوٹوبین الاقوامی جریدہ گلف نیوز نے بھی پاکستانی چاول کی عالمی سطح پر پذیرائی پر مہر ثبت کر دی۔عرب میڈیا کے مطابق 2026 کے آغاز پر... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں زبردست تیزی، ایک لاکھ 87 ہزار کی حد بحال

January 19, 2026 5:01

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے پہلے دن زبردست تیزی دیکھی گئی۔بازار حصص میں کاروبار کے اختتام پر 100 انڈیکس 2662 پوائنٹس... [...]

علی پرویز ملک کی سعودی وزیرِ توانائی سے ملاقات

January 17, 2026 6:01

فوٹو: ایکس۔وزارت پیٹرولیم ڈویڑن، پاکستانوفاقی وزیر توانائی پیٹرولیم ڈویژن علی پرویز ملک نے سعودی دارالحکومت ریاض میں سعودی وزیرِ... [...]

سونے کی قیمت میں کمی، فی تولہ سونا کتنے کا ہوگیا؟

January 17, 2026 10:01

— فائل فوٹوملک بھر میں فی تولہ سونے کی قیمت دو روز مستحکم رہنے کے بعد آج 600 روپے کم ہوگئی۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی... [...]

پی ایس ایکس: ہفتے کے دوران ملا جلا رجحان، 100 انڈیکس میں 689 پوائنٹس کا اضافہ

January 17, 2026 6:01

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے دوران ملا جلا رجحان رہا، جہاں 100 انڈیکس 689 پوائنٹس اضافے سے ایک لاکھ 85 ہزار 98 پوائنٹس پر... [...]

ٹیکسز، سرچارجز اور ڈیوٹیز کے باعث بجلی قیمتیں ناقابل برداشت ہوچکیں، نیپرا رپورٹ

January 16, 2026 2:01

فائل فوٹونیشنل الیکٹرک پاور ریگولیٹری اتھارٹی کی رپورٹ میں اعتراف کیا گیا ہے کہ بجلی قیمتیں ناقابل برداشت ہوچکی ہیں۔نیپرا نے پاور... [...]

ایل این جی 5.26 فیصد تک سستی ہوگئی، نوٹیفکیشن جاری

January 16, 2026 2:01

فائل فوٹو آئل اینڈ گیس ریگولیٹری اتھارٹی نے جنوری کے لیے ایل این جی 5.26 فیصد تک سستی کردی، جس کا نوٹیفکیشن بھی جاری کردیا۔سوئی... [...]

This stock-market indicator just flashed one of its most bullish signals since 2000

January 21, 2026 7:09

Market timers ran for the exits after Tuesday’s big drop. That’s a good sign. [...]

How to plan for the end of your life if you don’t have kids or a spouse

January 21, 2026 6:07

Here are the vital estate-planning moves solo agers and people without children need to take. [...]

Small stocks have crushed big ones this year, but that may just be a mirage

January 21, 2026 5:55

Small-cap investors are convinced the stock-market tide has turned in their favor. [...]

Turns out, DOGE did put Social Security data at risk. Here’s what lawmakers are doing about it.

January 21, 2026 5:48

Trump administration admits to security breaches that had been outlined in a whistleblower complaint [...]

Fighting with Elon Musk has been great for business, Ryanair CEO says

January 21, 2026 5:19

Ryanair’s bookings are up thanks to the controversy — and a to sale themed around the spat, CEO Michael O’Leary said. [...]

Forget what China said at Davos — investing in Chinese clean-energy stocks is a waste of money

January 21, 2026 5:18

China is praised for being a global alternative-enegy innovator. But its coal mining industry holds the real power. [...]

Intel’s stock soars toward a four-year high, raising the bar for earnings

January 21, 2026 5:05

Intel’s momentum reflects optimism about AI and manufacturing efforts, but analysts say earnings could underscore some challenges as well. [...]

Here’s the secret to spending money with no regrets

January 21, 2026 4:37

Author Morgan Housel has a strategy for your finances that works regardless of what the economy does. [...]

This Trump comment about Greenland at Davos is calming markets. Here’s why.

January 21, 2026 4:28

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he wouldn’t use force to obtain Greenland and called for negotiations, with his remarks coming during a speech at the World Economic Forum’s annual gathering in Davos, Switzerland. [...]

Netflix’s stock remains under pressure as investors balk at forecast and Warner Bros. acquisition

January 21, 2026 4:11

Investors appear unconvinced by Netflix’s effort to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming businesses and have registered their discontent over the company’s 2026 guidance. [...]

AI chatbots could replace 'Dr. Google' for your digital health records

January 21, 2026 5:12

Retail investors snap up gold and silver — and move past big tech

January 21, 2026 4:21

This Trump comment about Greenland at Davos is calming markets. Here’s why.

January 21, 2026 2:37

Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq try to rally after Tuesday's selloff. Follow live here.

January 21, 2026 1:12

U.S. Treasury Sec. Bessent calls Denmark investment in bonds 'irrelevant'

January 21, 2026 11:16

Kraft Heinz stock falls as Berkshire may sell off nearly its entire stake

January 21, 2026 2:44