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Gold Price in Pakistan Rallies Sharply Amid Global Economic Turmoil
Pakistan

Gold Price in Pakistan Rallies Sharply Amid Global Economic Turmoil

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The gold price in Pakistan witnessed a strong upward move on Monday, reflecting rising global uncertainty and renewed investor appetite for safe-haven assets. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewelers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), prices of both gold and silver surged significantly in the domestic market, tracking international bullion trends. This sudden spike highlights growing concerns over geopolitical instability, economic volatility, and increasing expectations of interest rate cuts by major central banks, particularly the US Federal Reserve. Gold Price in Pakistan Today – Latest Domestic Rates The gold price in Pakistan climbed sharply across all major purity levels. 24-karat gold, the most traded benchmark in the local market, was sold at Rs480,962 per tola, marking a day-on-day increase of Rs7,700. On a per-10-gram basis, 24-karat gold reached Rs412,347, up Rs6,602, while 22-karat gold also moved higher, trading at Rs377,998 per 10 grams. In practical terms, this means gold prices have now gained nearly Rs28,700 in the past month, underscoring sustained bullish momentum driven by global market forces. Silver Prices Follow Gold’s Rally in Pakistan Silver prices mirrored the surge in gold, strengthening further in the local bullion market. 24-karat silver was sold at Rs8,895 per tola, registering an increase of Rs430 in a single session. On a 10-gram basis, silver climbed to Rs7,626, gaining Rs369. Over the past month, silver prices in Pakistan have risen by more than Rs2,400 per tola, indicating strong industrial and investment demand amid rising economic uncertainty. Gold and Silver Performance Snapshot As of January 12, 2026, gold and silver have shown notable gains across multiple timeframes: • Gold has increased by Rs7,700 day-on-day, nearly Rs28,700 over one month, and over Rs130,000 since the start of the fiscal year, reflecting robust long-term performance.• Silver recorded a Rs430 daily rise, more than Rs2,400 monthly growth, and solid gains on both fiscal-year and calendar-year bases. These figures indicate that precious metals continue to outperform many traditional asset classes in Pakistan. Global Gold Prices Drive Gold Price in Pakistan Internationally, spot gold traded near $4,595 per ounce, rising by $55.4 or 1.22% in the latest session. This global rally directly influenced the gold price in Pakistan, as local bullion rates closely track international movements combined with PKR exchange fluctuations. Market analysts attribute the surge to a “perfect storm” of factors, including escalating geopolitical tensions, slowing global economic growth, and mounting pressure on the US Federal Reserve to cut interest rates sooner than expected. Lower interest rates typically weaken the US dollar and increase gold’s appeal as a store of value. What’s Next for Gold Price in Pakistan? Looking ahead, the gold price in Pakistan is expected to remain volatile but biased upward if global uncertainty persists. Any further depreciation of the Pakistani rupee or escalation in geopolitical risks could push prices even higher in the short term. For investors, gold continues to serve as a hedge against inflation, currency risk, and economic shocks making it a key asset to watch in 2026.

Ahsan Iqbal Sounds Alarm Saying Pakistan Heading Towards 400M as NFC Formula Fueling Population Explosion
Uncategorized

Ahsan Iqbal Sounds Alarm Saying Pakistan Heading Towards 400M as NFC Formula Fueling Population Explosion

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Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has raised serious alarms over Pakistan’s accelerating population growth, describing it as one of the most pressing threats to the nation’s future stability and development. In a recent video message, the minister revealed findings from the country’s first Digital Census in 2023, which showed the annual population growth rate climbing from 2.4% in the previous census to 2.55%. “We are one of the fastest-growing populations in the world,” Iqbal stated, noting that such rates are typically observed in the least developed countries of Africa. With Pakistan’s current population at 240 million, continued growth at this pace could push the figure to around 400 million by 2050—a daunting prospect that would severely strain resources, infrastructure, and public services. Iqbal emphasized the direct link between unchecked population expansion and hindered economic progress. Rapid growth, he explained, overburdens available resources, impacts human development indicators, and risks creating a future generation facing deficits in education, skills, and employment opportunities. He announced that the government is launching a coordinated national effort on population planning, acknowledging that the issue falls under provincial jurisdiction and requires strong inter-governmental collaboration. A key concern raised by the minister is the structure of the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, where 82% of divisible resources are allocated based on population size. This formula, he argued, creates a perverse incentive: provinces gain larger shares by having bigger populations, effectively discouraging efforts to promote family planning and control measures. “What incentive does any province have to decrease its population?” Iqbal questioned, calling for urgent debate and reform to remove this distortion. As discussions on the next NFC Award continue amid delays in technical working groups, Iqbal’s warning underscores the need for immediate policy shifts to align resource distribution with sustainable demographic goals.

Raast QR Insurance Payments Drive Pakistan’s Cashless Insurance Ecosystem
Pakistan

Raast QR Insurance Payments Drive Pakistan’s Cashless Insurance Ecosystem

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Raast QR Insurance Payments have taken a major step forward in Pakistan as JS Bank, in collaboration with KuickPay, enables Raast QR–based insurance premium payments for customers of the State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan (SLIC). This landmark initiative supports the Government of Pakistan’s Cashless Pakistan vision and strengthens the country’s digital financial infrastructure. As Pakistan’s largest life and health insurer, State Life serves millions of policyholders nationwide. The introduction of Raast QR payments modernizes premium collections, making insurance payments faster, more transparent, and easily accessible for customers across the country. Raast QR Insurance Payments and the Cashless Pakistan Vision The launch of Raast QR Insurance Payments directly aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to accelerate Pakistan’s transition toward a cashless and digitally enabled economy. By leveraging Raast, Pakistan’s instant payment system developed under the supervision of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), this initiative reduces reliance on cash while improving efficiency in high-volume, recurring payments such as insurance premiums. How Raast QR Insurance Payments Work for State Life Customers Through this collaboration, State Life policyholders can now pay their insurance premiums by simply scanning a Raast QR code available on the official State Life website (statelife.com.pk). Instead of visiting branches or handling physical cash, customers can complete transactions instantly using their mobile banking apps. This digital payment journey improves convenience, reduces processing time, and ensures real-time confirmation of payments. State Life’s Commitment to Digital Insurance Payments Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Shoaib Javed Hussain, CEO of State Life Insurance Corporation, emphasized that the adoption of Raast QR Insurance Payments reflects State Life’s commitment to digital empowerment. According to him, integrating Raast QR enhances customer experience by offering a faster, cashless, and transparent payment method, enabling every Pakistani to secure their future through State Life’s insurance products with greater ease and confidence. JS Bank’s Role in Scaling Raast QR Insurance Payments As one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing banks, JS Bank continues to invest in scalable digital payment infrastructure. Mr. Basir Shamsie, President & CEO of JS Bank, highlighted that facilitating Raast QR Insurance Payments supports both the Cashless Pakistan and Digital Pakistan agendas. By enabling Raast-based payments for recurring insurance collections, JS Bank is helping institutions move away from cash while strengthening the national digital payments ecosystem. KuickPay Strengthens Financial Inclusion Through Raast QR Insurance Payments KuickPay, working closely with JS Bank and under SBP’s directives, played a key role in implementing the solution. Syed Saqib Ali stated that KuickPay aims to streamline premium payments for State Life customers by offering diverse digital payment options. The initiative not only enhances customer convenience but also promotes financial inclusion, ensuring that digital financial services reach a wider segment of Pakistan’s population. Why Raast QR Insurance Payments Matter for Pakistan Raast QR Insurance Payments deliver multiple long-term benefits for the financial and insurance sectors: Customers gain instant, secure, and hassle-free premium payment options.Insurance companies benefit from efficient, real-time collections and improved transparency.The economy moves closer to reduced cash dependency and greater digital adoption. This initiative demonstrates how public and private sector collaboration can accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation while improving everyday financial experiences for citizens. A Milestone for Digital Insurance in Pakistan The enablement of Raast QR Insurance Payments for State Life customers marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward a cashless, digitally inclusive economy. Through the combined efforts of JS Bank, KuickPay, and State Life Insurance Corporation, insurance premium payments are now simpler, faster, and more accessible than ever before. As digital adoption continues to grow, initiatives like this will play a critical role in shaping the future of Pakistan’s financial and insurance ecosystems.

EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement Ushers in a New Era of Transparency
Pakistan

EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement Ushers in a New Era of Transparency

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EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement is set to redefine how government procurement operates, as the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rolls out sweeping reforms aligned with the Prime Minister’s Digital Pakistan Vision and international best practices. At the core of this transformation is the evolution of the e-Pak Acquisition and Disposal System (EPADS), which has already digitized procurement across the federal government and multiple provinces. With the upcoming launch of EPADS 2.0, Pakistan is entering a more advanced, data-driven, and transparent procurement era. PPRA’s Reform Agenda Behind EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement According to PPRA Managing Director Hasnat Ahmed Qureshi, the reform programme was launched in 2024 following a comprehensive diagnostic review conducted by local and international consultants. The initiative gained momentum after the Prime Minister approved a detailed reform roadmap. The reforms are wide-ranging and focus on modernizing procurement through digital systems, legal amendments, institutional restructuring, and capacity building. Together, these measures aim to eliminate inefficiencies and restore trust in public spending. EPADS Adoption and Digital Impact Across Pakistan EPADS has already demonstrated significant impact across Pakistan’s procurement landscape. The platform is currently used by thousands of government entities and suppliers nationwide. In practical terms, this means that nearly 10,000 procuring agencies and around 43,000 suppliers, including close to 600 foreign vendors, are actively operating on EPADS. During FY2024–25 alone, procurement transactions worth Rs1.41 trillion were processed digitally, representing over 526,000 procurement activities. This shift has significantly reduced manual paperwork, shortened procurement timelines, and enhanced auditability across public sector projects. Institutional Integration Strengthening EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement A defining feature of EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement is its deep institutional integration. The system is fully connected with key national bodies, enabling real-time verification and oversight. EPADS integrates seamlessly with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), NADRA, and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), while also linking to the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), Financial Accounting and Budgeting System (FABS), Provincial Revenue Authorities, and DRAP. Oversight institutions such as the Auditor General of Pakistan, NAB, and the Competition Commission of Pakistan now have access to real-time dashboards, strengthening accountability and minimizing governance risks. Boosting Competition and Curbing Collusion Through EPADS One of the most tangible benefits of EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement is improved competition. Open tenders now attract an average of five to seven bidders, compared to just two to three bidders under the previous manual system. The platform also captures petty purchases and requests for quotations, enforces blacklisting rules, flags procurement delays, and provides an effective grievance redressal mechanism. For high-value projects, EPADS enables live streaming of bids, ensuring transparency for procurements exceeding Rs500 million for goods and services and Rs1 billion for works. EPADS 2.0 Rollout Timeline and Future Enhancements PPRA has outlined a phased rollout for EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement. The federal launch is scheduled for January 2026, followed by Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK in February, and a full provincial rollout in March 2026. Advanced monitoring and analytical reporting tools will be introduced by July 2026, while donor-funded procurements will be fully routed through EPADS by September 2026. Additional milestones include the launch of an Online Procurement Academy in October and adoption of Open Contracting Data Standards (OCDS) by December 2026. Regulatory Reforms Supporting EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement To support digital transformation, PPRA is amending the PPRA Ordinance 2002 and finalizing the Public Procurement Rules 2025. These rules mandate e-procurement and e-disposal, introduce independent grievance redressal, require third-party oversight, and promote professional procurement cells across government entities. These regulatory changes aim to remove ambiguity, ensure fairness, and enhance efficiency across the procurement cycle. Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening Capacity development remains central to EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement reforms. More than 10,000 officials have already been trained, including nearly 2,500 officials and suppliers during FY2024–25 alone. Training partnerships include NUST, LUMS, IBA, and Air University. PPRA has also strengthened its institutional capacity by hiring technical experts, digitizing internal operations, establishing a modern EPADS training facility, and launching a 16-hour dedicated help desk for continuous system support. EPADS 2.0 Sets New Standards for Procurement Governance The launch of EPADS 2.0 Pakistan Public Procurement marks a decisive step toward modern, transparent, and accountable public procurement governance. By embedding technology, regulatory clarity, and professional capacity across the procurement lifecycle, PPRA is strengthening Pakistan’s credibility and aligning it with international standards.

Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition Gains Momentum with Solar and Climate Leadership
Pakistan

Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition Gains Momentum with Solar and Climate Leadership

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Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition has entered a transformative phase as the country rapidly scales up solar power deployment, increases renewable electricity generation, and advances climate-resilient development. With record-breaking growth in off-grid and net-metered solar installations, Pakistan is positioning itself as one of the fastest-growing clean energy markets globally. Driven by people-centric energy solutions and supportive policy frameworks, the country’s clean energy journey is reshaping the power sector while addressing energy poverty, climate vulnerability, and long-term sustainability. Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition and Record Solar Power Growth Pakistan has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing solar markets, achieving a major milestone by the end of 2025. The country now hosts: • 12 gigawatts (GW) of off-grid solar capacity, powering homes, farms, and businesses independently of the national grid• More than 6 GW of net-metered solar, enabling consumers to sell excess electricity back to the grid Together, this reflects a total distributed solar footprint exceeding 18 GW, largely driven by households, small businesses, and agricultural users seeking affordable and reliable energy alternatives. This people-led adoption has reduced pressure on the national grid, lowered electricity costs, and strengthened energy security amid fluctuating fuel prices. Renewables Cross 53% of Electricity Generation A historic breakthrough for the Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition came in the last fiscal year, when renewable sources accounted for 53% of total electricity generation. This marks a decisive shift away from fossil fuel dependence and underscores the growing role of clean energy in Pakistan’s power mix. Key contributors to this achievement include hydropower, solar, wind, and other renewable sources that collectively reduced carbon emissions while stabilizing electricity supply during peak demand periods. This progress also aligns Pakistan more closely with global climate goals and reinforces its credibility in international climate forums. Punjab Solar Panel Scheme 2026 and Energy Inclusion One of the most impactful initiatives supporting the Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition is the Punjab Solar Panel Scheme 2026. The program focuses on: • Providing free or subsidized solar systems to low-income households• Reducing energy poverty in underserved and rural communities• Improving access to reliable electricity for education, healthcare, and livelihoods By decentralizing energy access, the scheme is empowering households while easing the financial burden of rising electricity tariffs. Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition at IRENA Assembly At the 16th International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly, Pakistan reaffirmed its clean energy ambitions on the global stage. Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, MNA, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, delivered the national statement highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to achieve 60% renewable energy in the power mix by 2030. She emphasized that distributed solar kits have played a vital role in restoring electricity and livelihoods in flood-affected areas, presenting them as a replicable model for climate-resilient recovery in developing countries. Climate Finance, Energy Storage, and Global Cooperation As part of Pakistan’s broader climate strategy, Ms. Alam called on IRENA and its Member States to: • Increase concessional financing for developing economies• Recognize energy storage and green hydrogen as global public goods• Strengthen regional cooperation to enhance shared energy security These measures are seen as essential for accelerating the Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition while ensuring equitable access to emerging clean technologies. Commitment to Paris Agreement and a Low-Carbon Future Pakistan reaffirmed its continued commitment to the Paris Agreement, stressing the importance of sustained technical and financial support from international partners. The government envisions a future that is resilient, inclusive, and low-carbon, where clean energy acts as a catalyst for economic stability and climate adaptation. The Pakistan Renewable Energy Transition reflects a powerful combination of grassroots adoption, policy direction, and international engagement. With solar capacity surging, renewables dominating electricity generation, and ambitious 2030 targets in sight, Pakistan is rapidly transforming its energy landscape—setting an example for climate-vulnerable developing nations worldwide.

Iran Protests Enter Third Week with Death Toll Exceeding 540 Amid Intense Crackdown
World

Iran Protests Enter Third Week with Death Toll Exceeding 540 Amid Intense Crackdown

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Nationwide anti-government protests in Iran have continued into a third week, with reports indicating at least 544 deaths and over 10,600 arrests since demonstrations erupted on December 28, 2025. The unrest initially sparked by soaring inflation, currency collapse, and economic hardship has transformed into broad calls for regime change, spreading across all 31 provinces and hundreds of cities. US-based rights group Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports 490 protesters and 48 security personnel among the dead, including children, as authorities impose a prolonged internet blackout to curb information flow. Regime Blames Foreign Interference, Threatens Retaliation Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and IRGC commanders, have framed the protests as externally orchestrated “terrorism” linked to the United States and Israel, describing them as an extension of prior conflicts rather than legitimate dissent. President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged economic grievances but vowed not to allow “rioters” to destabilize the country. Tehran has warned of strikes against US bases in the region if Washington intervenes,following US President Donald Trump’s threats of military action to support demonstrators. State media announced three days of mourning for fallen security forces, while pro-government rallies have been organized in several cities to counter opposition momentum. Crackdown Intensifies as Protests Persist Despite heavy security presence, including Basij and IRGC forces, demonstrations persist in Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, and other urban centers, with protesters chanting against clerical rule and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The regime has shifted rhetoric from “rioters” to “terrorists” to justify lethal force and deter potential defections among security ranks. International observers express alarm over the violence, drawing parallels to past waves like the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests, though this round appears more widespread and economically driven. With communications restricted, exact casualty figures remain hard to verify independently, but the crisis marks one of the gravest challenges to Iran’s leadership in decades.

Pakistan Mutual Funds Industry Surges to PKR 4.5 Trillion AUM in December 2025
Pakistan

Pakistan Mutual Funds Industry Surges to PKR 4.5 Trillion AUM in December 2025

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Pakistan’s mutual funds sector recorded a healthy 5.6% month-on-month (MoM) increase in total Assets Under Management (AUM), rising from PKR 4,306 billion as of November 30, 2025, to PKR 4,548 billion by December 31, 2025. This expansion reflects strong investor confidence, supported by upward momentum in equities and steady inflows into fixed-income and money market products. Equity AUM grew modestly by 6.0% MoM to PKR 660 billion from PKR 622 billion, maintaining its share at around 14.5% of total AUM. The industry’s performance aligns with positive macroeconomic indicators, including stable rupee and declining inflation trends in late 2025. Top Performers Lead Charge with Double-Digit Gains Al Meezan Investments (Al Meezan IML) retained its leadership with AUM climbing 4.2% MoM to PKR 694.5 billion, bolstered by a 5.0% rise in equity portion to PKR 116.8 billion. NBP Funds followed closely at PKR 524.5 billion (up 3.1%), while MCB Funds posted the strongest growth among majors at 7.0% MoM to PKR 429.4 billion, with equity AUM surging 12.1%. Other notable gainers included UBL Funds (up 2.2% to PKR 399.9 billion), Alfalah AML (6.0% to PKR 351.0 billion), and smaller players like Lucky Invest (10.7% to PKR 131.4 billion) and JSIL (17.3% to PKR 125.5 billion). Fund distribution showed money market (22%), income (21%), and Shariah-compliant products dominating, with equity at 9% and Shariah-compliant equity at 6%. The sector’s resilience highlights growing retail and institutional participation despite global uncertainties.

Kaghan Valley Trout Farms on Brink of Collapse Due to Floods and Neglect
Pakistan

Kaghan Valley Trout Farms on Brink of Collapse Due to Floods and Neglect

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The once-thriving trout fish farming sector in Bhunja, a scenic hub in Kaghan Valley known for its cold-water resources, is teetering on the edge of collapse. Severe floods over the past two years have wreaked havoc, damaging infrastructure, destroying water channels, and ruining ponds across dozens of farms. An unidentified disease plaguing trout for several years has led to mass fish deaths, inflicting heavy financial losses on farmers who have invested significantly in the business. Many ponds remain unrepaired, disrupting essential water supply and rendering large-scale breeding unviable. The combination of natural disasters and persistent health issues has pushed numerous operators out of the trade, delivering a major blow to the local economy that once benefited from this profitable venture. Seed Shortages and Official Inaction Compound Crisis Farmers report that the government hatchery at Shino Jared has failed to supply trout seed for an extended period, forcing them to source fingerlings from distant regions like Gilgit-Baltistan and Swat. This incurs exorbitant transportation costs and high seed mortality rates, with losses running into hundreds of thousands of rupees per consignment. Despite the farms originally being established under government ADP schemes, no financial assistance has been provided to restore flood-damaged channels or ponds. The Fisheries Department stands accused of prolonged neglect, with no efforts to diagnose the mysterious disease or provide support. Local stakeholders warn that without urgent intervention—such as infrastructure repairs, seed availability, disease research, and financial aid—the industry risks total extinction, threatening livelihoods in this mountainous region dependent on aquaculture for income and employment.

Punjab LPG Nightmare: 25 Dead, Over 240 Injured in Cylinder Blasts in 3 Years
Pakistan

Punjab LPG Nightmare: 25 Dead, Over 240 Injured in Cylinder Blasts in 3 Years

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At least 25 people lost their lives, and more than 240 others were injured in a shocking series of LPG cylinder explosions and related fires throughout Punjab province. The data, compiled by the LPG Distributors Association and shared with media outlets, reveals a total of 488 incidents over the recent period, highlighting a severe public safety emergency. Women and children were among the victims, with several survivors facing permanent disabilities due to severe burns and other trauma. Of the injured, around 286 required hospital treatment, though 44 were later discharged. Major Cities Hardest Hit Lahore emerged as the epicenter, recording a staggering 170 incidents, followed by Faisalabad (50), Rawalpindi (38), and Gujranwala (25). Other districts reported significant cases, including Multan (18 incidents, 8 injured), Sargodha (19 incidents, 23 injured, 8 fatalities), Sheikhupura (19 incidents, 29 injured), and Bahawalnagar (16 incidents, 10 injured). Smaller numbers occurred in areas like Bahawalpur, Gujrat, Attock, and Chakwal, while some districts such as Hafizabad and Lodhran reported zero incidents. The association has pointed to substandard, non-certified cylinders as the primary cause, with illegal manufacturing and sales continuing openly in cities like Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, and Multan despite crackdowns involving law enforcement. Authorities have initiated actions against violators, but the persistence of low-quality cylinders raises concerns about ongoing risks in households reliant on LPG for cooking and heating. This surge underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations, better quality controls, and public awareness campaigns to prevent such preventable tragedies.

Apple Reclaims Global Smartphone Leadership in 2025 with 20% Market Share Amid Modest Industry Growth
Tech

Apple Reclaims Global Smartphone Leadership in 2025 with 20% Market Share Amid Modest Industry Growth

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Global smartphone shipments grew modestly by 2% year-on-year in 2025, driven by stronger consumer demand and economic momentum in emerging markets, according to fresh data from Counterpoint Research released on January 12, 2026. Apple reclaimed the leading position, securing a 20% market share—the highest among the top five vendors—thanks to robust performance across emerging and mid-sized markets and exceptional sales of the iPhone 17 series. Counterpoint analyst Varun Mishra highlighted Apple’s success in penetrating price-sensitive regions while maintaining premium appeal. The iPhone 17 lineup, featuring enhanced features trickling down to base models, contributed significantly to sustained demand throughout the year. Manufacturers also front-loaded shipments early in 2025 to mitigate potential tariff impacts, though this effect diminished in the second half, resulting in stable volumes later on. Vendor Rankings and Market Dynamics Samsung held second place with a 19% share, achieving modest shipment growth amid competitive pressures. Xiaomi ranked third with 13%, benefiting from consistent strength in emerging markets through affordable yet feature-rich devices. The overall market expansion reflected recovery in key regions, with emerging economies playing a pivotal role in offsetting slower growth in mature markets. This marks a notable shift, as earlier forecasts from Counterpoint (November 2025) projected Apple nearing or surpassing Samsung at around 19.4%, but final 2025 figures confirm Apple’s clear lead at 20%. The premium segment, led by Apple, continued to outperform budget categories. Challenges Ahead for 2026 Looking forward, Counterpoint research director Tarun Pathak cautioned that the global smartphone market could soften in 2026 due to chip shortages and escalating component costs. Chipmakers are increasingly prioritizing AI data centers over consumer devices, potentially constraining supply and raising prices. Despite 2025’s positive momentum, geopolitical factors like tariffs and macroeconomic uncertainties may temper future growth. The report underscores Apple’s strategic resilience in diversifying beyond traditional strongholds, positioning it well even as industry headwinds loom.

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.

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