Contact Us

Author name: Bussiness

Aramco Opens 50th Retail Station, Supporting Jobs and Local Economy
Business

Aramco Opens 50th Retail Station, Supporting Jobs and Local Economy

/

Gas & Oil Pakistan Limited, in partnership with Aramco, inaugurated its 50th retail station on Srinagar Highway, Islamabad. The event gathered senior management and industry leaders to celebrate this milestone, reflecting the company’s growing commitment to Pakistan’s retail fuel sector. Beyond expanding its network, the Aramco new station contributes to the creation of employment opportunities, local skill development, and economic activity in the surrounding community. Each new outlet supports operational staff, customer service teams, and supply chain partners, reinforcing the broader socio-economic impact of the investment. Since launching its first station in Lahore in 2024, the global oil giant has steadily expanded to 50 locations nationwide. This growth demonstrates the company’s dedication to delivering modern fueling experiences while actively contributing to Pakistan’s economic development and providing both jobs and infrastructure that benefit local communities.

Hidden Caliphate: Sufi Saints Beyond the Oxus and Indus.
Uncategorized

IBA KARACHI HOSTED PUBLIC LECTURE BY DR. WALEED ZIAD ON HIS BOOK

/

“HIDDEN CALIPHATE: SUFI SAINTS BEYOND THE OXUS AND INDUS” November 07, 2025: IBA hosted an insightful public lecture by Dr. Waleed Ziad, Associate Professor of History, Georgetown University (Qatar). The session, held at the City Campus and organized by the School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS), centered on Dr. Ziad’s acclaimed book, “Hidden Caliphate: Sufi Saints Beyond the Oxus and Indus.” In his talk, Dr. Ziad explored the Naqshbandi-Mujaddidi Sufi networks that connected Central and South Asia between the 18th and early 20th centuries. He revealed how these Sufi scholars exercised their sacro-political authority to shape religious thought and community life, while also engendering a cultural resilience that transcended regional boundaries Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director, IBA Karachi, also attended the session and commended the School of Economics and Social Sciences for organizing intellectually stimulating dialogues that promote interdisciplinary learning. The lecture was moderated by Dr. Ali Gibran Siddiqui, Assistant Professor, SESS, who facilitated an engaging discussion between the speaker and the audience. The event drew an engaging audience comprising students, faculty members, researchers, and individuals deeply interested in South and Central Asian history, religion, and culture. Participants appreciated the depth of scholarship and the relevance of Dr. Ziad’s work to understanding contemporary cultural connections across the Muslim world. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, allowing attendees to explore themes related to transnational spirituality, historical continuity, and the enduring impact of Sufi thought on regional societies.

Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited Celebrates 'Al Baraka Day' with Environmental Stewardship and Youth Engagement
Business, Environment

Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited Celebrates ‘Al Baraka Day’ with Environmental Stewardship and Youth Engagement

/

KARACHI Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited celebrated ‘Al Baraka Day’ by organizing an environmental awareness session and a joint plantation drive of 200 trees in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Studies at the University of Karachi. This initiative is part of a broader, group-wide (Al Baraka Banking Group) commitment to community-focused volunteering activities under the banner of Al Baraka Day, first launched by (Al Baraka Banking Group) in 2022. The theme for this year’s ‘Al Baraka Day’ is “Life on Land,” a direct alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, which focuses on the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. This activity also contributes to its flagship initiative “One Tree Per Staff Every Year” by promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability to reduce banks carbon footprint. This initiative reflects the banks deep-rooted commitment to climate change and its impact. Through this partnership with the University of Karachi, the bank is not only contributing to a greener Pakistan but also engaging the next generation in our collective mission to enable our youth to become the agents of change with the banks shared vision for a sustainable future. The event brought together Al Baraka Bank employees, university staff, and students in a hands-on effort to create a meaningful, lasting impact on the communities and environment.

BankIslami Named “Best Bank of the Year 2024” and “Best Islamic Bank” (Runnerup) at CFA Society Pakistan Awards
Business

BankIslami Named “Best Bank of the Year 2024” and “Best Islamic Bank” (Runnerup) at CFA Society Pakistan Awards

/

Karachi BankIslami has been recognized among the nation’s leading Islamic financial institutions, winning two major distinctions, “Best Bank of the Year 2024 (Mid-Sized Banks)” and “Best Islamic Bank (Runner-up)” at the 22nd CFA Society Pakistan Annual Excellence Awards. These accolades recognize BankIslami’s strong financial performance, strong governance standards, and its pioneering role in advancing Pakistan’s transition toward a Riba-free economy. The recognition reaffirms the Bank’s position as one of the country’s most progressive and purpose-driven Islamic financial institutions. The CFA Society awards are regarded as one of the most credible acknowledgments of excellence and governance in the country’s financial sector. Commenting on the achievement, Rizwan Ata, President & CEO of BankIslami, said: “At BankIslami, every initiative we undertake is guided by our mission of Saving Humanity from Riba. This recognition from the CFA Society is a testament to our unwavering commitment to ethical banking and our continued efforts to build a just, inclusive, and Shariah-compliant financial system for Pakistan.” This achievement adds to a remarkable year of success for BankIslami, with earlier recognition as Pakistan’s Best Islamic Bank from Euromoney, as well as local and international awards from Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA), Dragons of Asia, and the Pakistan Digital Awards, marking it as one of the most awarded Islamic banks in the country. With a network of 550+ branches across 210 cities, BankIslami continues to redefine Islamic banking through technology, innovation, and purpose. From launching Pakistan’s first fully digital Islamic banking solution, aik, to introducing accessible products for individuals, SMEs, and communities, the Bank remains at the forefront of transforming Pakistan’s financial future — one step closer to a truly Riba-free economy.

PPL
Pakistan

PPL Boosts Gas Output at Gambat South Facility Through Innovative Optimisation

/

Karachi Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), operator of the Gambat South Block, announced a significant enhancement in gas processing capacity at the Gambat South Gas Processing Facility (GPF-II) in Sanghar, Sindh, elevating output without major capital outlay.In a filing to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday, PPL revealed that the facility’s capacity has risen from 55 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd) to 60 MMscfd of raw gas through targeted process improvements. This upgrade yields an additional 5 MMscfd of gas, 35 barrels per day of condensate, and one metric ton of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).Commissioned in 2016 with an initial design for 50 MMscfd of CO2-rich raw gas (26% CO2), the plant underwent prior optimisation in 2021-22 to reach 55 MMscfd. The latest milestone was achieved via refinements in the Amine sweetening process, incorporating a proprietary additive into the existing MDEA solvent system—no hardware modifications required.PPL holds a 65% working interest in the block, with Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL) at 25% and Asia Resources Oil Limited (AROL) at 10%. “This reflects our dedication to operational excellence and maximising domestic hydrocarbon resources cost-effectively,” the notice stated, emphasising value for stakeholders amid efforts to bolster energy security.The enhancement underscores PPL’s strategy of leveraging innovation for sustainable production gains, potentially easing Pakistan’s natural gas supply constraints. Industry experts hail it as a model for low-cost field optimisation in mature assets.

Pakistan's Auto Sector Accelerates
Auto, Pakistan

Pakistan’s Auto Sector Accelerates: Car Sales Surge 46% in First Four Months of FY26

/

Karachi Pakistan’s automotive market demonstrated robust recovery with car sales, including jeeps and pick-ups, jumping 46% year-on-year to 59,600 units during July-October FY26, fueled by stabilizing economic conditions, a steadier Pakistani rupee, and the introduction of fresh models.Data released Tuesday by the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) revealed a broad uptick across vehicle categories. Total sales of all vehicles—encompassing two-, three-, and four-wheelers—also climbed, though farm tractor volumes dipped.In September 2025 alone, jeep and pick-up sales rocketed 67% year-on-year to 17,174 units. Trucks and buses posted even steeper gains, rising 115% to 2,308 units and 59% to 322 units, respectively. Motorcycle and rickshaw sales accelerated 30% to 597,025 units, reflecting renewed consumer appetite.Auto sector analyst Muhammad Sabir Shaikh, speaking to Business Recorder, attributed the resurgence to post-pandemic normalization. “The industry endured a steep decline from 2022 through the first quarter of 2025, but it’s now building momentum,” he said. Shaikh highlighted how improved economic sentiment and rupee stability have restored buyer confidence, encouraging consumers to upgrade vehicles every three to four years—a habit disrupted by the Covid-19 fallout.The analyst also pointed to the influx of affordable Chinese motorcycles challenging pricier Japanese rivals, boosting two-wheeler demand. However, farm tractor sales fell 15% to 5,867 units, hampered by an 18% sales tax reimposed over the past 18 months, which had previously been waived to spur agricultural mechanization.Industry observers anticipate sustained growth, provided macroeconomic stability persists, positioning Pakistan’s auto sector for further expansion in the coming fiscal year.

Gold Prices
Pakistan

Gold Prices Surge in Pakistan, Tracking Global Rally Amid Fed Rate Cut Hopes

/

Karachi Gold prices in Pakistan climbed sharply on Tuesday, mirroring gains in the international market driven by anticipation of a US Federal Reserve interest rate cut in December and easing concerns over a potential US government shutdown.According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price of gold per tola rose by Rs5,900 to settle at Rs435,762. Similarly, 10-gram gold advanced by Rs5,065 to Rs373,595. This follows Monday’s increase, when per-tola gold gained Rs7,400 to reach Rs429,862.The international spot price also firmed up, trading at $4,134 per ounce (including a $20 premium), up $59 from the previous session, as per APGJSA data. Silver prices in the local market edged higher by Rs144 per tola, closing at Rs5,353.Globally, spot gold rose 0.7% to $4,142.83 per ounce by 0314 GMT, marking its highest level since October 24. US gold futures for December delivery climbed 0.7% to $4,148.50 per ounce, reflecting investor bets on looser monetary policy and reduced fiscal uncertainty in the US.Market analysts attribute the uptick to gold’s safe-haven appeal amid geopolitical tensions and expectations of sustained economic stimulus. “With the Fed signaling more cuts, gold remains a hedge against inflation and volatility,” said one Karachi-based trader.The APGJSA noted steady demand from retail buyers and investors, though high premiums could temper short-term enthusiasm. Traders will watch upcoming US economic data for further cues on the precious metal’s trajectory.

Colombo Summit 2025
External Sector

Sri Lanka Eyes Greater Trade and Investment Ties with Pakistan Envoy Invites Pakistani

/

KARACHI Consul General of Sri Lanka P.K. Sanjeewa Pattiwila, while underscoring the need to look beyond the existing trade basket and explore untapped sectors for collaboration, stated that the private sectors of Sri Lanka and Pakistan can particularly thrive in agri-based industries, seafood, spices, animal feed, value-added seafood, construction, and information technology.Speaking at a meeting during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Sri Lankan Envoy noted that while the balance of trade currently favors Pakistan, there exists tremendous potential for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to explore and fully leverage the opportunities available under the FTA. “Our trade portfolio is diverse, comprising tea, coconut products, MDF boards, rubber products, and surgical goods from Sri Lanka, while Pakistan exports woven fabrics, cement, pharmaceuticals, rice, cereals, and dry fish to Sri Lanka”, he added.President KCCI Muhammad Rehan Hanif, Senior Vice President Muhammad Raza, Vice President Muhammad Arif Lakhani, Former President Shamim Ahmed Firpo, Chairman Diplomatic Missions & Embassies and Liaison Subcommittee Ahsan Arshad Sheikh, KCCI Executive Members were also present on the occasion.Sri Lankan CG observed that for over seven decades, relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan have been guided by mutual respect, deep understanding, and excellent cooperation. “While our formal diplomatic relations were established 77 years ago, our historical connection goes beyond that, rooted in shared culture, religion, and traditions”, he noted.“Our bilateral relations today remain constructive, solid, and longstanding across the political, economic, cultural, and security spheres. At every crucial juncture in history, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have stood by each other with unwavering solidarity”, he emphasized, adding that Pakistan continues to be Sri Lanka’s second-largest trading partner in the South Asian region.Referring to tourism, he invited the people of Pakistan to select Sri Lanka as their preferred travel destination, while encouraging Sri Lankan tourists to also visit Pakistan to experience its scenic beauty and cultural richness.Discussing Sri Lanka’s economic outlook, he stated, “The investment climate in Sri Lanka has become increasingly attractive due to a liberalized foreign investment regime, supportive government policies, strategic location, and an educated and adaptable workforce. Sri Lanka is now recognized as one of the most promising investment destinations in South Asia, with a strong and resilient economy projected for growth.”While affirming his commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and investment through joint promotional programs, Sri Lankan CG invited business community to attend the forthcoming Economic and Investment Summit 2025, organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce at Shangri-La Colombo on December 2–3, 2025, to witness how Sri Lanka is advancing its investment agenda.

Governor SBP
Pakistan

Governor SBP Urges Regional Capital Market Integration for Sustainable Growth

/

KARACHI Governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Jameel Ahmad has called for greater regional cooperation and innovation to build integrated capital markets that can mobilize investment, enhance resilience, and drive sustainable growth across Asia. Addressing the International Capital Market Conference 2025 in Karachi, he said regional market integration was “not an option but a necessity” in today’s interconnected world. Ahmad emphasized that harmonized regulations, efficient capital allocation, and broader investment opportunities could help economies with low savings and limited bank financing, especially for climate and infrastructure projects. Citing ASEAN+3 and Caribbean examples, he noted that collective action can lower costs and diversify risk. He outlined four priorities: aligning regulations, improving connectivity, harmonizing legal frameworks, and boosting regulatory cooperation. Highlighting SBP’s Vision 2028, he said Pakistan is linking its Raast system with the Buna platform and developing a unified digital KYC framework to advance regional financial integration.

Cadet College Wana
Breaking News, Pakistan

Terrorists Target Cadet College Wana: All Students Evacuated Safely as Security Op Nears Completion

/

Wana In a brazen assault underscoring persistent security threats in Pakistan’s tribal belt, terrorists stormed Cadet College Wana in South Waziristan on Tuesday, prompting a swift military response that successfully evacuated over 500 students and staff unharmed. The attack, attributed to Fitna al-Khawarij militants, left three security personnel martyred, with the operation against the remaining three assailants entering its final phase.Eyewitnesses reported gunfire and explosions around midday, as the attackers—believed to be in contact with Afghan-based handlers—attempted to breach the premises. Pakistan Army troops cordoned off the area, engaging the intruders and ensuring a safe extraction of all cadets and educators to nearby safe zones. “All students and teachers have been rescued; the hunt for the terrorists continues,” confirmed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, vowing a thorough probe into cross-border linkages.Established in 2013 to promote education in the former FATA region, Cadet College Wana symbolizes resilience amid conflict. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the “cowardly” strike, directing enhanced intelligence-sharing with neighbours. Local leaders praised the forces’ rapid action, which averted a larger tragedy. As the clearance op wraps up, questions loom over renewed militancy, with analysts urging fortified border measures. The incident highlights the fragile peace in Waziristan, where such institutions foster future leaders despite risks.

The Boardroom PK delivers trusted business news, analysis, and insights from Pakistan and beyond, keeping readers informed, inspired, and ahead in the evolving world of business and leadership.

Facebook Instagram X-twitter Linkedin Youtube
News
Categories
Company
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Services
  • Sitemap
  • Contact Us

© 2025 theboardroom. All rights reserved.

Scroll to Top