Author name: Web Desk

K-Electric adds nearly 140MW for industries during 2025 amid higher economic growth
Pakistan

K-Electric adds nearly 140MW for industries during 2025 amid higher economic growth

KARACHI: K-Electric (KE) added a sanctioned load of nearly 140MW through 339 new industrial connections during 2025 as Pakistan moved towards economic stabilisation amid the ongoing IMF programme.“These connections supported sectors including manufacturing, textiles, FMCG, ports, and export-oriented industries, reinforcing Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s economic engine,” KE said in a statement.Years of inflation and high power tariffs had stalled Pakistan’s economic engines. However, during 2025, analysts say some economic stability returned as inflation eased and interest rates settled. The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) benchmark KSE-100 Index is trading near record highs, and the economy grew by 3.71 per cent in the first quarter (July-September) of the current fiscal year, a sizable increase from 1.56pc recorded in the same period last year. The year-on-year quarterly growth was mainly driven by a 9. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-scales-back-disco-privatisation-only-gepco-for-outright-sale/

Shield Corporation Voluntary Delisting from PSX Signals Strategic Shift
Pakistan

Shield Corporation Applies for Voluntary Delisting from PSX Citing Low Liquidity and Ongoing Losses

Shield Corporation voluntary delisting from PSX has formally entered the regulatory process after the company submitted an application to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), citing prolonged low trading liquidity, sustained financial losses, and the need to refocus management resources on core operations. The move reflects a growing trend among thinly traded listed companies in Pakistan that are reassessing the cost-benefit balance of remaining publicly listed amid challenging market conditions. Shield Corporation Voluntary Delisting from PSX: Regulatory Background According to an official application filed with the PSX on January 2, 2026, Shield Corporation Limited has sought approval for voluntary delisting under Regulation 5.14.3 of the PSX Rule Book (Voluntary Delisting Regulations). The application follows a Board of Directors’ resolution dated November 19, 2025, where the board approved the decision to pursue delisting. The company is currently a public limited company listed on the PSX, with its registered office located on Shahrah-e-Faisal, Karachi. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-launches-advanced-speed-breeding-facilities-to-boost-crop-security/ Why Shield Corporation Is Seeking Voluntary Delisting from PSX The decision behind the Shield Corporation voluntary delisting from PSX is primarily driven by three structural challenges: Extremely Low Trading Liquidity Over the past year, Shield Corporation’s shares recorded an average daily trading volume of just 923 shares, making it difficult for investors to enter or exit positions efficiently. Continued Financial Losses The company has incurred losses over the last two financial years, eroding shareholder returns and weakening investor interest in the stock. No Dividend Since 2021 Shield Corporation has not paid dividends since 2021, further reducing the attractiveness of the stock for long-term investors seeking income. Management believes that delisting will reduce regulatory compliance costs, minimize administrative burdens, and allow leadership to focus on operational performance rather than public market obligations. Shield Corporation Share Capital and Ownership Structure Shield Corporation Limited has an authorized share capital of Rs150 million, divided into 15 million ordinary shares with a face value of Rs10 per share. Out of this, the company has issued 3.9 million fully paid ordinary shares, translating into a paid-up capital of Rs39 million. All issued shares are currently eligible for trading through the Central Depository System (CDS) of the Central Depository Company of Pakistan. Exit Offer for Minority Shareholders To protect investor interests during the Shield Corporation voluntary delisting from PSX, the company’s sponsors have proposed a structured buyback plan. Minority shareholders will be offered an exit price of Rs465.17 per share, determined in accordance with Regulation 5.14.1 of the PSX Voluntary Delisting Regulations. This buyback will cover 209,598 ordinary shares, representing approximately 5.37% of the company’s paid-up capital. The sponsors have stated that this offer provides a fair and reasonable exit, especially given the stock’s limited liquidity and recent performance. Purchase Agent and Process Transparency To ensure transparency and regulatory compliance, Habib Limited has been appointed as the Purchase Agent. The firm will facilitate the acquisition of shares from minority shareholders as part of the delisting mechanism. Shield Corporation has also confirmed its willingness to provide any additional documentation or disclosures required by the PSX to complete the delisting process smoothly. What Shield Corporation Voluntary Delisting from PSX Means for Investors For investors, the Shield Corporation voluntary delisting from PSX presents both closure and clarity. Minority shareholders are offered a defined exit route at a regulated price, while long-term sponsors regain operational flexibility outside the public market. From a broader market perspective, the move underscores the growing importance of liquidity, governance costs, and profitability in sustaining public listings on the PSX. Company Snapshot Shield Corporation Limited is an ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified company, with its headquarters based in Karachi. The company operates within internationally recognized quality and environmental management standards.

Gold Price in Pakistan Rises Sharply Amid Global Market Uncertainty
Pakistan

Gold Price in Pakistan Rises Sharply Amid Global Market Uncertainty

Gold price in Pakistan continued its upward momentum on Friday, reflecting strong global cues and persistent economic uncertainty. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewelers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price of 24-karat gold surged by Rs5,700 per tola, taking the new rate to Rs460,262 per tola, one of the highest levels recorded in recent weeks. The rally in local bullion prices mirrors international market trends, where gold remains a preferred safe-haven asset amid expectations of monetary easing and ongoing geopolitical risks. Gold Price in Pakistan Today – Latest Rates The increase in gold prices was observed across all major purity levels in the domestic market. The 24-karat gold price per 10 grams rose by Rs4,887, settling at Rs394,600, while 22-karat gold was quoted at Rs361,729 per 10 grams, highlighting broad-based strength in the precious metals segment. In simple terms, compared to Thursday’s rates, buyers in Pakistan paid significantly more for gold on Friday, driven by both global price appreciation and currency-related pressures. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gold-price-in-pakistan-declines-sharply-amid-market-volatility/ Silver Prices Follow Gold’s Upward Trend Alongside gold, silver prices in Pakistan also posted notable gains. The price of 24-karat silver increased by Rs227 per tola, reaching Rs7,862, while silver per 10 grams rose by Rs195 to Rs6,740. This synchronized movement suggests increased investor interest in precious metals as a hedge against inflation and financial volatility. Gold Price in Pakistan – Performance Snapshot From a broader perspective, gold has delivered strong returns over multiple timeframes. On a day-on-day basis, gold gained Rs5,700 per tola. Over the past month, prices are up by Rs17,100, while fiscal year-to-date (FYTD) gains stand at a substantial Rs110,062 per tola. On a calendar year-to-date (CYTD) basis, gold has added Rs3,300, reinforcing its long-term value proposition for investors. Silver has shown a similar pattern, with Rs1,777 gained over one month, Rs4,080 FYTD, and Rs144 CYTD, indicating consistent upward pressure across precious metals. Global Gold Market Supporting Local Prices The surge in the gold price in Pakistan is closely tied to international market movements. In the global bullion market, spot gold traded near $4,388 per ounce, marking an increase of $40.2 or 0.92% from the previous session. This global rise is being fueled by: • Heightened geopolitical and economic uncertainty• Expectations of monetary easing by major central banks later in 2026• Sustained investor demand for safe-haven assets These factors collectively provide strong support to both international and domestic gold prices. Outlook: Will Gold Prices in Pakistan Rise Further? Market analysts believe that if global uncertainty persists and interest rate cuts materialize in major economies, the gold price in Pakistan may continue to remain elevated in the near term. Additionally, fluctuations in the Pakistani rupee and import-related costs could further influence local bullion rates. For investors, gold continues to serve as a reliable store of value, particularly during periods of economic transition and policy uncertainty. Why Gold Still Matters for Pakistani Investors • Acts as a hedge against inflation• Protects wealth during currency volatility• Strong historical performance in uncertain times• High liquidity in local markets

Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 Surges to $3.7 Billion Amid Import Spike
Pakistan

Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 Surges to $3.7 Billion Amid Import Spike

Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 widened sharply, signaling renewed pressure on the country’s external sector as imports surged while exports continued to struggle. According to provisional data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the trade deficit expanded by 28.38% month-on-month (MoM) to $3.705 billion, compared to $2.886 billion in November 2025. The latest figures underline persistent structural challenges in Pakistan’s trade landscape, particularly declining export competitiveness and rising import dependence, which continue to strain the balance of payments. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/port-qasim-to-construct-two-modern-mooring-boats/ Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025: Monthly Trade Performance A closer look at the monthly data reveals a clear imbalance between imports and exports in December 2025. Exports during the month stood at $2.317 billion, reflecting a 4.26% decline MoM. This contraction highlights ongoing challenges for Pakistan’s export sector, including weak global demand, energy constraints, and cost pressures affecting key industries such as textiles and manufacturing. In contrast, imports surged to $6.022 billion, marking a 13.49% increase MoM. The sharp rise in imports driven by higher demand for energy products, raw materials, and machinery significantly outweighed the fall in exports, resulting in the wider monthly trade gap. In practical terms, for every dollar Pakistan earned from exports in December, it spent more than two and a half dollars on imports, amplifying external vulnerabilities. Year-on-Year Analysis of Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 On a year-on-year (YoY) basis, the Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 expanded by 23.79%, rising from $2.993 billion in December 2024 to $3.705 billion. Exports posted a steep 20.41% YoY decline, falling from $2.911 billion last year to $2.317 billion. This sharp contraction reflects weaker export orders, currency volatility, and challenges in maintaining market share in key international destinations. Meanwhile, imports edged higher by 2.0% YoY, increasing from $5.904 billion to $6.022 billion. Although the annual rise in imports appears modest, it was sufficient when combined with falling exports to significantly widen the trade deficit. Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025: FY26 Cumulative Trend The cumulative picture for the first half of the fiscal year further reinforces concerns. From July to December FY26, Pakistan’s exports totaled $15.184 billion, representing an 8.7% decline YoY. During the same period, imports climbed 11.28% YoY to $34.388 billion. As a result, the cumulative trade deficit ballooned to $19.204 billion, a 34.57% increase compared to the corresponding period last year. This widening gap highlights a growing mismatch between export earnings and import payments, increasing reliance on external financing and foreign inflows. Key Drivers Behind the Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 Several structural and cyclical factors contributed to the deteriorating trade balance: Despite some month-to-month fluctuations, the overall trend indicates sustained pressure on Pakistan’s external accounts. Economic Implications and Outlook The widening Pakistan Trade Deficit December 2025 poses significant challenges for economic stability. A larger trade gap places downward pressure on foreign exchange reserves and complicates monetary and fiscal management. It also raises concerns over the country’s ability to meet external financing needs without increasing debt. Going forward, sustainable improvement will require boosting export competitiveness, expanding value-added production, and managing import growth through targeted policy interventions.

Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December Shows Strong Momentum in Industrial Growth
Pakistan

Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December Shows Strong Momentum in Industrial Growth

Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December delivered a positive signal for the country’s industrial outlook, as manufacturing activity accelerated to its strongest level since February. According to the latest data released by S&P Global, the HBL Pakistan Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) climbed to 52.8 in December, up from 52.3 in November, indicating expanding business conditions across the sector. A PMI reading above 50 reflects expansion, and December’s improvement underscores growing confidence in Pakistan’s manufacturing economy amid stabilizing inflation and improving demand dynamics. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-textile-council-calls-for-export-emergency-amid-sharp-decline-in-shipments/ Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December Driven by Production and New Orders The rise in Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December was primarily supported by robust growth in production and a sharp acceleration in new orders. Manufacturers reported the fastest increase in new business since March, signaling a rebound in domestic demand and improving market conditions. Production levels increased as firms responded to stronger order books, reflecting improved capacity utilization without triggering excessive operational pressure. This balance suggests that manufacturers are expanding output efficiently while maintaining control over costs and delivery timelines. Export Orders Turn Positive After Six Months A notable highlight of the Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December report was the return to growth in new export orders, which expanded for the first time in six months. This turnaround was attributed to: • Stronger international demand• Improved product quality and compliance with global standards• Better competitiveness in selected export-oriented industries The revival in export orders provides an encouraging signal for Pakistan’s external sector, particularly as manufacturers seek to capitalize on recovering global supply chains. Employment Rises as Workloads Increase Employment in the manufacturing sector increased for the second consecutive month, aligning with higher production needs and expectations of continued demand growth. Firms reported: • Longer working hours• Increased staffing to manage rising workloads• Forward-looking hiring decisions based on anticipated order inflows This improvement in employment reflects growing business confidence and supports broader economic recovery through job creation. Input Purchases and Inventories Surge Manufacturers significantly increased input purchases during December, largely as a precautionary measure against potential price increases. As a result, inventories rose at the fastest pace since the PMI survey began, highlighting proactive supply chain management. Despite higher output and stock accumulation, capacity pressures remained subdued, with work backlogs declining at one of the fastest rates on record. This indicates that firms are effectively managing demand without operational strain. Business Confidence at Multi-Month High Commenting on the data, Humaira Qamar, Head of Equities & Research at HBL, noted that business confidence reached its highest level since July. Optimism was driven by expectations of: • Improved macroeconomic conditions• Manageable inflation levels• A supportive monetary policy environment She also highlighted the State Bank of Pakistan’s surprise 50 basis point policy rate cut, which reinforced market confidence. The central bank signaled expectations of inflation averaging within the 5–7% target range and progress toward achieving its June 2026 foreign exchange reserve goals. Why Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December Matters The Pakistan Manufacturing PMI December serves as a leading indicator of economic momentum. Based on monthly surveys of private-sector firms, the PMI tracks changes iin • Output levels• New domestic and export orders• Employment trends• Input purchases and inventories Sustained expansion in PMI readings often signals upcoming growth in industrial output, investment, and employment making it a critical barometer for policymakers, investors, and business leaders. Outlook: Manufacturing Sector Enters 2026 on Strong Footing With rising production, renewed export growth, improving employment, and supportive monetary conditions, Pakistan’s manufacturing sector enters the new year with cautious optimism. If demand conditions remain stable and inflation stays under control, the sector could play a pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s overall economic recovery in 2026.

Starlink to Lower All Satellites in 2026 for Enhanced Space Safety Amid Crowded Skies
World

Starlink to Lower All Satellites in 2026 for Enhanced Space Safety Amid Crowded Skies

SpaceX’s Starlink constellation, the world’s largest satellite network with nearly 10,000 operational units, is set for a major overhaul in 2026. The company announced plans to lower all satellites currently orbiting at approximately 550 kilometers to around 480 kilometers throughout the year. This reconfiguration, revealed by Michael Nicolls, SpaceX’s vice president of Starlink engineering, aims primarily to boost space safety amid growing concerns over orbital congestion and debris. Addressing Recent Incidents and Future Risks The decision follows a rare anomaly in December 2025, where one Starlink satellite at 418 km experienced a failure, generating a small amount of debris and losing communication—possibly due to an onboard explosion. Nicolls explained that lowering the orbits will condense the constellation, placing it in a region below 500 km with significantly fewer debris objects and planned rival constellations. This reduces overall collision risks. Additionally, as solar minimum approaches, lower altitudes increase atmospheric drag, slashing natural deorbit times for failed satellites from years to months—over an 80% reduction. The process is being coordinated closely with regulators, other operators, and the U.S. Space Command to minimize disruptions. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ukraines-nova-post-thrives-in-war-delivering-480-million-parcels-in-2024/ Starlink’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to sustainable operations, potentially improving latency for users while setting a benchmark for the industry in managing crowded low-Earth orbits.

Around 40 Killed as Fire Rips Through New Year's Eve Bash in Switzerland
World

Around 40 Killed as Fire Rips Through New Year’s Eve Bash in Switzerland

What began as a vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration at Le Constellation bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana quickly descended into horror shortly after midnight on January 1, 2026. Around 1:30 a.m., a fierce fire—initially reported as an explosion—engulfed the crowded venue, trapping hundreds of revelers inside. The bar, known for attracting a young crowd including teenagers and international tourists, was packed with partygoers welcoming the new year with music, dancing, and festivities. Heroic Rescue Amid Devastation Eyewitnesses described flames rapidly spreading across the ceiling, forcing desperate escapes through broken windows and doors. Videos captured scenes of panic, with people trampling each other and shouting for help. Bystanders and emergency services rushed to the scene, pulling victims to safety in the freezing Alpine night. Local residents provided warmth using restaurant curtains and tablecloths, while a nearby bank branch was converted into a makeshift triage center. Dozens of ambulances and helicopters airlifted the injured to hospitals across Switzerland, including specialist burns units in Lausanne and Zurich. Swiss authorities deployed massive resources, including 42 ambulances and 13 helicopters, highlighting the scale of the emergency. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-polio-eradication-campaign-records-sharp-decline-in-2025/ The tragedy claimed around 40 lives, mostly young people aged 16-26, with 115 others injured, many severely burned. Identification of victims has proven challenging due to the extent of injuries, a process expected to take days or weeks. Police have ruled out foul play, describing the incident as accidental. Switzerland has declared five days of national mourning, with President Guy Parmelin calling it one of the country’s worst tragedies. As flowers and candles accumulate at the site, the community grapples with profound grief amid the ongoing ski season.

VEON Group Invests USD 20 Million in Mobilink Bank to accelerate digital Islamic banking expansion
Pakistan

VEON Group Invests USD 20 Million in Mobilink Bank to accelerate digital Islamic banking expansion

Karachi – January 02, 2026: Global digital operator VEON Group has announced an investment of USD 20 million in Mobilink Bank to support its growth and digital Islamic banking expansion in Pakistan. The investment builds on USD 15 million capital deployed by VEON in January 2025 and underscores its confidence in Mobilink Bank’s growth momentum and its integrated digital financial ecosystem with JazzCash, amid the rapid expansion of Pakistan’s digital banking and microfinance sector. Mobilink Bank is a part of VEON Group, a global digital operator that provides services to over 150 million connectivity customers and over 140 million monthly active digital users. VEON Group (Nasdaq: VEON) is a Nasdaq-listed company that operates across five countries that are home to more than 6% of the world’s population. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/jazzcash-reaches-57-million-customers-processes-massive-pkr-15-trillion-in-2025/ The capital will be used to scale Mobilink Bank’s MSME financing portfolio, advance its Islamic banking offerings, and strengthen its evolution into a technology-driven, digitally native bank, with a continued focus on expanding regulated financial access for underserved communities, particularly small businesses and women. The investment reflects VEON Group’s broader digital strategy of strengthening high-impact financial ecosystems through technology-led solutions and disciplined capital deployment, positioning Mobilink Bank as a key contributor to Pakistan’s evolving financial sector. Commenting on the development, VEON Group Executive Committee Member and Chairman Mobilink Bank, Aamir Ibrahim, said: “This continued stream of investment from VEON underscores our long-term commitment to Pakistan and confidence in the structural shift underway in the country’s digital financial services ecosystem. It strengthens Mobilink Bank and JazzCash’s ability to execute on our strategic priorities, invest in resilient technology infrastructure, and contribute to the development of inclusive and sustainable digital banking.” Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, President and CEO Mobilink Bank, added: “This investment will accelerate the expansion of our shariah-compliant Islamic banking offerings, helping small businesses formalize cash flows, access regulated credit, and build long-term financial resilience. As a future-ready digital bank, our focus remains on delivering practical, technology-enabled financial solutions that empower entrepreneurs – particularly women and underserved communities – across Pakistan.” Mobilink Bank’s expanding deposit base and MSME-oriented lending portfolio are enabling small businesses to transition from informal cash usage to regulated banking, while targeted women-centric financial products and green financing initiatives support inclusive growth and resilience in the face of Pakistan’s climate and economic challenges. Mobilink Bank, together with JazzCash, which serves over 57 million customers and is supported by a nationwide network of more than one million merchants and agents, anchors one of Pakistan’s largest digital financial ecosystems. During the year, JazzCash processed gross transaction value exceeding PKR 15 trillion, underscoring the scale, resilience, and impact of fintech in advancing financial inclusion, social mobility, and responsible digital innovation across Pakistan.

Pakistan Greenlights Mobile Virtual Operators Ahead of 5G Spectrum Sale
Pakistan

Pakistan Greenlights Mobile Virtual Operators Ahead of 5G Spectrum Sale

The federal cabinet has approved the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework, a significant step towards enhancing competition in Pakistan’s telecom market and facilitating a more targeted 5G spectrum auction. The approval, granted via circulation of a summary by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, aligns with clause 9.11.1 of the Telecommunications Policy 2015. Key Features and Implications for 5G Rollout MVNOs, which do not own spectrum but lease network capacity from existing Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), can now offer nationwide mobile and next-generation services under their own brands. The framework sets a 15-year renewable license with an upfront fee of $140,000 (payable in PKR). Annual contributions to the Universal Service Fund (USF) and R&D will be based on combined revenues with host MNOs, while inter-operator costs are deductible. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-digital-payments-lag-peers-despite-rapid-growth-rs11-5-trillion-is-outside-banks-and-only-15-of-bank-accounts-are-digitally-active/ The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) drafted the policy last year, emphasizing service quality obligations, including helplines, customer care centres in active cities, and compliance with national security protocols like lawful interception. All MNO-MVNO agreements require PTA approval, and licenses may be suspended if an MVNO fails to maintain a host agreement. This development is expected to attract smaller players, expand investment, and provide clearer insights into spectrum demand for the upcoming 5G auction. Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja is scheduled to brief the media on the framework details on January 3, 2026. By enabling diverse service models—from basic resellers to full MVNOs with core networks—the policy aims to inject innovation and customized offerings into a sector dominated by major operators. As Pakistan prepares for its largest-ever spectrum auction, potentially including bands conducive to 5G, the MVNO approval adds momentum to digital transformation efforts.

PSX Shatters Records as KSE-100 Surges Past 179,000 Milestone
Pakistan

PSX Shatters Records as KSE-100 Surges Past 179,000 Milestone

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continued its unstoppable rally into 2026, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index crossing the historic 179,000 level for the first time on January 2. The index reached an intra-day high of 179,016.88 during the morning session, reflecting unwavering investor confidence amid improving macroeconomic indicators. Broad-Based Buying Across Key Sectors Buying interest remained strong across multiple sectors, including automobile assemblers, cement, commercial banks, fertilisers, oil and gas exploration companies, oil marketing companies (OMCs), power generation, and refineries. Index-heavy stocks such as HUBCO, Attock Refinery (ARL), Mari Petroleum (MARI), Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC), Pakistan Petroleum (PPL), Pakistan Oilfields (POL), Pakistan State Oil (PSO), Habib Bank (HBL), National Bank (NBP), and United Bank (UBL) traded firmly in positive territory, contributing significantly to the upward push.By midday, the KSE-100 was trading at 178,504.34, marking a gain of 2,148.85 points or 1.22%. This followed a robust close on January 1, where the index added 2,301.17 points to end at 176,355.49, kicking off the new year on a high note. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-stock-exchange-2025-performance-signals-a-historic-turning-point/ The rally is underpinned by easing inflation, with December 2025 headline inflation at 5.6% year-on-year, aligning with Ministry of Finance projections. Stable foreign exchange reserves at around $21 billion further bolster sentiment. Analysts attribute the surge to broad-based institutional buying and optimism over sustained economic stability. Global markets provided a supportive backdrop, with Asian indices posting gains despite holiday-thinned trading. The PSX’s performance highlights Pakistan’s equity market resilience, positioning it as one of the top performers regionally.As bulls dominate, market participants anticipate further milestones, though caution against potential profit-taking in the near term.

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