Pakistan’s industrial sector secured financial relief of Rs. 12.125 billion during December 2025 and January 2026 under a government-backed discounted electricity package, according to official data. The benefit was extended to 127,686 industrial consumers, representing approximately 46 percent of total industrial users during the two-month period. The relief is part of a broader strategy to […]
Pakistan’s Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) sector showed signs of recovery as the LSM Index posted a 0.4 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase in December 2025, alongside a strong 9.3 percent month-on-month (MoM) growth, signaling a rebound in industrial activity. During the first half of FY26 (1HFY26), the LSM index recorded a 5 percent YoY expansion, reflecting improving […]
The Pakistani rupee (PKR) continued its modest gains against the US Dollar (USD) on Monday, closing in green for the 101st consecutive day. The currency posted a small appreciation of one paisa, ending the session at 279.61 PKR per USD. Despite its steady performance against the dollar, the rupee faced pressure against several other major […]
The government is preparing to overhaul its electricity subsidy framework by limiting financial support strictly to low-income households, subject to approval from the International Monetary Fund. The proposal, finalized by the Power Division, is expected to be discussed in upcoming negotiations with the IMF as part of broader fiscal reforms. Under the new framework, all […]
Pakistan has recorded its strongest monthly net foreign inflows into sovereign bonds in nearly two years, signaling renewed investor interest in the country’s debt market. According to a report by Bloomberg, January saw a significant turnaround compared to the same period last year. Net inflows into government bonds reached $176 million in January, marking the […]
Pakistan’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) recorded combined losses of Rs. 832.8 billion in fiscal year 2024-25, according to a fresh report issued by the Ministry of Finance. Although the figures reflect a slight 2 percent improvement compared to the previous fiscal year, the overall financial burden remains substantial. The latest data underscores persistent structural challenges within […]
The Pakistani rupee (PKR) continued its modest upward trend against the US Dollar (USD), closing in green for the 93rd consecutive trading day on Tuesday. Despite the streak, the currency posted losses against most other major international currencies during the session. The PKR closed at 279.75, marking a gain of just one paisa against the […]
During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce on Monday, lawmakers expressed optimism that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) could lower its policy rate to single digits by June 2026. Members highlighted that persistently high interest rates have significantly restricted business activity and limited access to financing for the private sector. Federal […]
Gold prices in Pakistan saw a significant drop on Friday, following a record high just a day earlier, highlighting continued volatility in the bullion market. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price of gold per tola fell by Rs. 35,500, settling at Rs. 537,362. Meanwhile, 10 grams of gold declined […]
pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves are projected to reach an all-time high by the end of December 2026, marking a significant milestone for the country’s financial stability and macroeconomic outlook. According to estimates shared by Topline Securities, reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) are expected to exceed $20.2 billion, reflecting improved external account […]
Pakistan has recorded a significant rise in external borrowing during the first six months of the current fiscal year, receiving a total of Rs. 1,272 billion in foreign loans and grants. In dollar terms, this amounts to $4.5 billion, marking an increase of $904 million compared to $3.6 billion received during the same period last […]
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif left Pakistan on Tuesday for Switzerland, leading a high-level delegation to participate in the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026. The visit is aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s diplomatic ties and exploring new avenues for economic cooperation. The Prime Minister is accompanied by key officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, […]
Pakistan has taken another step toward strengthening its digital financial landscape by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with SC Financial Technologies LLC, an affiliated entity of World Liberty Financial. The agreement is aimed at expanding cooperation in digital financial services and accelerating the country’s shift toward modern, technology-driven payment systems. The MoU was signed between […]
Pakistan’s automotive industry has staged a strong comeback in the first half of the current fiscal year, recording a robust 46 percent increase in vehicle sales compared to the same period last year. The surge reflects improving market sentiment and renewed consumer interest, according to fresh data released by the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association. Between […]
Pakistan Railways has announced a significant development in its long-awaited railway modernization drive, confirming that work on the Main Line-I (ML-I) project will begin from Karachi Port in July 2026. The announcement marks a key milestone in efforts to overhaul the country’s rail infrastructure and strengthen cargo and passenger connectivity across Pakistan. The confirmation came […]
Pakistan is steadily moving closer to adopting a regulated digital asset ecosystem, signaling a major policy shift in how the country views cryptocurrencies and virtual assets. The federal government aims to bring growing crypto-related activity into a structured, transparent, and secure financial framework that aligns with global best practices. The initiative reflects rising interest among […]
The federal government has finalized the ‘Made in Pakistan’ Electronics Manufacturing Policy, a major step aimed at strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on imported finished electronic goods. According to a report, the policy lays the foundation for local manufacturing of mobile phones, laptops, computers, tablets, and a wide range of other electronic products, signaling […]
Pakistan’s manufacturing sector closed 2025 on a positive note as the HBL Pakistan Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to a 10-month high in December. Compiled by S&P Global, the PMI increased to 52.8 from 52.3 in November, marking its strongest reading since February and signaling a sustained expansion in manufacturing activity. The improvement was […]
The year 2025 proved to be transformative for Pakistan’s banking and financial sectors, witnessing significant developments that reshaped the industry landscape. From high-profile mergers and acquisitions to the entry of new players and the exit of underperforming firms, the sector experienced dynamic changes that highlighted its resilience and adaptability. Local banks and fintech companies faced […]
The International Monetary Fund has reportedly placed fresh demands on Pakistan under the ongoing $7 billion loan program, with potential implications for the country’s emerging electric and hybrid vehicle industry. According to sources, the new conditions focus on ending long-standing sales tax exemptions that were introduced to promote cleaner and locally manufactured transportation. Sources familiar […]
