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Service Industries Reports Strong H1 Profit but Skips Dividend as Q2 Earnings Decline

Web Desk / August 28, 2026

Service Industries Limited (PSX: SRVI) delivered a stronger first-half performance in 2026, but its second-quarter earnings declined and the company recommended no cash dividend, bonus shares or rights issue. For the six months ended June 30, 2026, consolidated revenue increased 21% to Rs84.75 billion, while profit after tax rose 24% to Rs9.69 billion. However, second-quarter profit fell to Rs4.64 billion from Rs6.16 billion a year earlier. Stronger Revenue and Gross Profit The group’s operating performance improved significantly during the first half. Gross profit increased 41% to Rs22.41 billion from Rs15.84 billion, lifting the gross margin to around 26.4% from 22.5%. Operating profit also climbed to Rs13.44 billion from Rs8.63 billion. Meanwhile, finance costs declined to Rs2.27 billion from Rs3.08 billion as mark-up expenses eased. Profit before tax more than doubled to Rs11.16 billion compared with Rs5.52 billion in the same period last year, showing a substantial improvement in underlying operations. Tax Impact Weighs on Net Profit The biggest difference in the earnings comparison came from taxation. During the first half of 2025, Service Industries recorded a tax credit of Rs2.33 billion. This year, the company booked a tax expense of Rs1.47 billion. As a result, the improvement in profit after tax was much smaller than the increase in pre-tax earnings. Q2 Profit Falls Despite Higher Sales The second quarter presented a different picture from the overall half-year results. Quarterly sales increased to Rs42.52 billion from Rs37.77 billion, while gross profit rose to Rs10.98 billion from Rs8.41 billion. Profit before tax also improved to Rs5.21 billion from Rs3.10 billion. However, profit after tax declined to Rs4.64 billion from Rs6.16 billion. The previous year’s second quarter benefited from a Rs3.06 billion tax credit, while the latest quarter recorded a tax charge of Rs564 million. Quarterly EPS consequently declined to Rs5.90 from a restated Rs7.04. Working Capital Requirements Remain High Service Industries reduced its short-term borrowings to Rs42.30 billion from Rs54.18 billion at the end of December, providing some balance-sheet relief. However, working-capital requirements increased. Inventory rose to Rs32.26 billion from Rs26.47 billion, while trade debts increased to Rs20.95 billion from Rs16.97 billion. Loans and advances also climbed to Rs3.74 billion from Rs1.10 billion. Fixed assets increased to Rs56.32 billion from Rs49.22 billion, while long-term financing rose to Rs14.85 billion from Rs12.35 billion. Cash and bank balances stood at Rs9.31 billion, compared with Rs8.48 billion at year-end, while short-term investments declined to Rs15.57 billion from Rs21.42 billion. No Dividend Recommended Despite the stronger first-half profit, the board recommended no cash dividend, bonus shares or rights issue for the period. Profit attributable to equity holders of the holding company reached Rs5.79 billion, translating into EPS of Rs12.32, compared with restated EPS of Rs9.70 in the previous period. The decision marks a notable change from calendar 2025, when the company paid Rs17.50 per share as part of what it described as a consistent payout history. Service Industries Earnings Outlook Service Industries’ latest results present a mixed picture for investors. The first-half numbers show stronger sales, wider gross margins, lower finance costs and a significant increase in pre-tax profit. However, the second-quarter decline and absence of a dividend highlight the impact of tax changes and continued working-capital requirements. The key factors to watch going forward will be profit margins, inventory levels, receivables, borrowing costs and cash generation. The company’s ability to convert stronger operating performance into sustainable net earnings and shareholder returns will remain central to its outlook.

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Canada Seeks Pakistani Nurses, Dentists And Pharmacists To Address Healthcare Shortages

Web Desk / August 27, 2026

Canada is seeking qualified Pakistani nurses, dentists, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to help address workforce shortages and strengthen its healthcare system, creating potential employment opportunities for skilled professionals from Pakistan. The demand for overseas healthcare workers comes as Canada continues to face staffing gaps across several parts of its healthcare sector. For qualified Pakistani professionals, the development could provide opportunities to pursue careers in Canada, subject to professional licensing, immigration and other eligibility requirements. Canada Seeks Skilled Pakistani Healthcare Professionals The demand covers a range of healthcare occupations, including nurses, dentists and pharmacists, as well as other qualified healthcare professionals. Pakistan has a large pool of trained medical and healthcare workers, many of whom already seek opportunities in international markets. Canada’s demand could therefore provide another potential destination for professionals looking to develop their careers abroad. However, professionals should understand that having a qualification or work experience in Pakistan does not automatically allow them to practise in Canada. Most regulated healthcare professions require applicants to complete credential assessments, meet professional standards and obtain a licence from the relevant Canadian regulatory authority. The exact requirements vary depending on the profession and the province or territory where an individual intends to work. Nurses Among Professionals In Demand Nurses are an important part of Canada’s healthcare workforce, making nursing one of the key professions for internationally educated healthcare workers seeking Canadian opportunities. Pakistani nurses interested in working in Canada generally need to have their education and professional credentials assessed before they can obtain registration. They may also need to demonstrate language proficiency and meet other requirements established by the relevant nursing regulator. The licensing process can differ between Canadian provinces and territories, so applicants should check the requirements of the jurisdiction where they plan to work. Professionals should also distinguish between immigration eligibility and professional licensing. Receiving an immigration pathway or work authorisation does not necessarily mean a healthcare professional can immediately practise in a regulated occupation. Dentists And Pharmacists Also Required Dentists and pharmacists are among the other healthcare professionals who may find opportunities in Canada. Like nursing, both professions are regulated. Internationally trained dentists and pharmacists normally have to go through assessment and licensing procedures before practising independently. For dentists trained outside Canada, the process can involve an assessment of educational qualifications and examinations or additional training, depending on the individual’s circumstances. Pharmacists also need to satisfy the requirements of the relevant provincial or territorial regulatory body. These procedures are designed to ensure that internationally educated professionals meet Canadian standards of education, training and professional practice. Licensing Is A Key Requirement For Pakistani healthcare workers considering Canada, professional licensing should be one of the first issues to investigate. Canada’s healthcare system is administered across federal, provincial and territorial levels, and professional regulators establish the rules governing regulated occupations. Applicants should therefore avoid relying solely on recruitment advertisements or claims about job availability. Before paying an agent or submitting documents, professionals should verify requirements directly with the appropriate Canadian regulatory authority. Applicants should also confirm whether their qualifications are recognised, whether examinations are required and what level of language proficiency is expected.

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Waves Corporation Profit Halves To Rs530 Million As Finance Costs Stay High

Web Desk / August 26, 2026

Waves Corporation Limited, a major producer of refrigerators and home appliances, reported a sharp decline in profitability in FY2025 despite a strong recovery in sales. The company’s profit after tax fell to Rs530 million from Rs1.09 billion a year earlier, while earnings per share dropped to Rs1.89 from Rs3.86. Sales Recover But Profit Remains Under Pressure Waves’ gross sales increased to Rs6.37 billion in FY2025 from Rs5.07 billion, while net sales reached Rs4.78 billion. Gross profit also improved to Rs1.34 billion, showing that the recovery in sales translated into some improvement at the operating level. However, higher revenue was not enough to offset other pressures on the business. Finance Costs Remain A Major Challenge Finance costs stood at Rs636 million, only slightly below Rs700 million recorded in the previous year. The relatively high financing burden continued to consume a significant portion of the company’s operating earnings. Other expenses also increased during the year, further limiting the company’s ability to improve its bottom line and strengthen its balance sheet. Other Income Also Declines Waves’ other income fell to Rs1.36 billion from Rs1.74 billion in FY2024. The decline was significant because other income had provided considerable support to the previous year’s profitability. Combined with high finance costs and rising expenses, the lower other income contributed to the sharp decline in annual earnings. Company Pursues Expansion And Rights Issue Waves Home Appliances, the group’s manufacturing arm, is moving ahead with a rights issue aimed at supporting working capital requirements and future expansion. The company is also developing a new manufacturing facility that will increase production capacity for refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners and other household appliances. Management is further working to restart and expand product lines that previously faced operational constraints. Diversified Business Structure Waves Corporation has interests extending beyond appliance manufacturing. The group operates the Waves Plus retail network, which serves more than 400,000 customers, while also holding real-estate assets, including strategically located land in Lahore near Multan Road and Thokar Niaz Baig. These assets could provide additional opportunities as the company works to strengthen its financial position. Finance Costs Remain Key Risk Waves’ FY2025 results show that improving sales alone may not be enough to restore profitability. The company’s ability to reduce financing costs, control expenses and improve operating efficiency will be crucial going forward. The planned rights issue and additional manufacturing capacity could support future growth, but stronger balance-sheet management will remain essential for turning higher sales into sustainable profits.

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Standard Chartered Pakistan Welcomes New CEO as OICCI Signals Continued Business Collaboration

Syed Shoaib / August 26, 2026

Standard Chartered Pakistan is entering a new leadership phase as Adil Salahuddin takes over as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Rehan Shaikh, who has also completed his tenure as a prominent figure associated with the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The leadership transition was highlighted during a recent visit to OICCI, where outgoing CEO Rehan Shaikh and incoming CEO Adil Salahuddin met OICCI Secretary General M. Abdul Aleem. The meeting signals that the relationship between Standard Chartered Pakistan and the country’s leading foreign-investor business platform is expected to continue despite the change at the bank’s top management level. For a financial institution with a long-standing presence in Pakistan, the transition carries significance beyond a routine corporate leadership change. Standard Chartered Pakistan operates in a market where foreign investment, banking sector confidence, regulatory stability and access to international financial networks remain critical issues for businesses. Rehan Shaikh Leaves Behind a Strong OICCI Association OICCI used the occasion to recognize Rehan Shaikh for his leadership and longstanding association with the Chamber. His previous role as OICCI President placed him at the intersection of Pakistan’s corporate sector and international investors. His departure therefore represents more than a change at Standard Chartered Pakistan. It also marks the end of an influential chapter in the bank’s engagement with the broader business community. OICCI appreciated Shaikh’s contributions during his tenure and acknowledged the value of his participation in the Chamber’s activities. Such leadership roles can be particularly important in Pakistan, where foreign investors frequently seek stronger engagement with policymakers, regulators and business organizations. However, appreciation alone should not obscure the larger challenge. Pakistan’s business community needs sustained institutional engagement rather than relationships built around individual corporate leaders. The real test for the new leadership will be whether Standard Chartered Pakistan can maintain and expand this engagement under Adil Salahuddin. Adil Salahuddin Faces a Bigger Business Challenge OICCI has welcomed Adil Salahuddin into his new role and expressed confidence in continued collaboration with Standard Chartered Pakistan. For the incoming CEO, maintaining that relationship will be important, but the expectations from a major international bank operating in Pakistan are considerably broader. The banking sector faces pressure from economic uncertainty, changing interest-rate conditions, foreign exchange challenges and the evolving needs of businesses seeking international financing. Multinational companies also require predictable regulations and reliable financial infrastructure to expand their operations. Standard Chartered Pakistan has an opportunity to strengthen its position by supporting trade finance, corporate banking, investment flows and cross-border transactions. Its international network can potentially provide an important bridge between Pakistani businesses and global markets. OICCI Relationship Will Remain a Key Test The continued partnership between OICCI and Standard Chartered Pakistan could become increasingly important as Pakistan seeks to attract and retain foreign investment. Yet the business community should judge this relationship by measurable outcomes rather than ceremonial meetings and leadership statements. Greater investment, improved access to financing and stronger support for international businesses would provide more meaningful evidence of progress. The leadership change at Standard Chartered Pakistan therefore presents both continuity and a fresh opportunity. Rehan Shaikh leaves with OICCI’s recognition, while Adil Salahuddin begins his tenure with the responsibility of translating institutional relationships into stronger business outcomes. For Pakistan’s corporate sector, the real question is not simply who leads Standard Chartered Pakistan next. It is whether the bank can use its global reach and local presence to help unlock greater investment, trade and financial opportunities for the country.

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Oil Prices Stabilise As Markets Assess New US Sanctions On Iran

Web Desk / August 25, 2026

Global oil prices steadied on Tuesday as traders assessed the potential impact of the latest US sanctions targeting Iran and their possible effect on crude supplies. Brent crude gained 27 cents, or 0.3%, to reach $92.44 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose 37 cents, or 0.4%, to $85.38 per barrel. The modest recovery followed a decline of more than 2% in the previous session. Markets See Sanctions As Limited Supply Risk The latest US measures are aimed at increasing economic pressure on Iran and encouraging countries to reduce business ties with Tehran. For now, traders appear to view the sanctions as less disruptive to physical oil supplies than direct military action. This has prevented a sharp surge in crude prices despite continuing geopolitical tensions. However, Iran’s ability to disrupt shipping remains a concern for energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, continues to carry a significant risk premium because of the possibility of further disruptions. Shipping Risks Keep Oil Market On Edge Concerns over maritime security resurfaced after an oil tanker was reportedly struck by an unidentified projectile near Oman and became disabled. Iran has also warned vessels over its rules for crossing the Strait of Hormuz, adding another layer of uncertainty for international energy markets. Meanwhile, US crude inventories are also being closely monitored. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell by around 3.7 million barrels to 289.7 million barrels, its lowest level since November 1982. Oil Market Faces Continued Volatility For now, investors appear more comfortable with economic pressure on Iran than a wider military escalation. However, any disruption to shipping or crude exports could quickly change market sentiment. With geopolitical tensions still elevated and global oil inventories under pressure, crude prices are likely to remain sensitive to developments surrounding Iran, US sanctions and the Strait of Hormuz.

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Port Qasim Authority Opens Bidding For New Multipurpose Cargo Terminal

Web Desk / August 25, 2026

Pakistan’s Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has opened the prequalification process for a new Port Qasim multipurpose cargo terminal, marking a major step towards expanding the country’s capacity to handle breakbulk and general cargo. The terminal will be developed under a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model, allowing a private developer or consortium to finance, construct and operate the facility before eventually transferring it to PQA. The authority has invited national and international companies to participate in the prequalification process. Interested firms can submit applications either independently or as part of a consortium, providing an opportunity for experienced port operators, infrastructure developers and investors to take part in the project. Under the proposed arrangement, the successful developer will be responsible for the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the terminal. The project is expected to introduce additional cargo-handling capacity at Port Qasim while improving infrastructure for the movement and storage of different types of general cargo. Port Qasim Seeks National And International Bidders PQA has structured the project to attract both domestic and international expertise. Companies applying for prequalification will need to demonstrate their technical, financial and operational capabilities to undertake a large-scale port infrastructure project. The BOT model will allow the private sector to play a central role in developing and operating the terminal. Instead of relying entirely on public financing, the project will require the selected developer to arrange the necessary investment and manage construction and operations during the agreed concession period. Once the concession period ends, ownership of the completed facility will ultimately be transferred to the Port Qasim Authority. The approach is designed to combine private-sector investment with public port infrastructure and could help accelerate the development of additional cargo-handling facilities. Port Qasim is an important part of Pakistan’s maritime trade network, serving industrial and commercial activities in and around Karachi. Additional infrastructure at the port could support growing demand for cargo movement and improve the handling of commodities that require facilities beyond conventional container terminals. Project Includes Dredging And Quay Wall Construction The proposed Port Qasim multipurpose cargo terminal will involve several major civil and marine infrastructure works. The project scope includes land reclamation, dredging and construction of a quay wall, along with other facilities required for the operation of the terminal. Reclamation and dredging will be important components because the developer will need to prepare the site and marine approaches for efficient vessel operations. The quay wall will provide the required berthing infrastructure for cargo vessels using the terminal. The project will also include associated infrastructure and facilities needed to support cargo storage, handling and evacuation. These facilities are expected to form an integrated system capable of moving cargo efficiently between vessels, storage areas and onward transportation networks. The selected developer will also procure and install cargo-handling equipment. Modern equipment will be required to handle breakbulk and general cargo safely and efficiently. In addition, the terminal will feature modern control systems for cargo storage and evacuation. Such systems can help operators monitor cargo movements, improve operational coordination and manage the flow of goods through the facility. Developers To Conduct Demand And Traffic Studies Beyond construction and operations, prospective developers will have to undertake detailed economic and financial feasibility studies. These studies will include demand forecasts and traffic projections to assess the expected volume of cargo moving through the proposed terminal. Such assessments will help determine the commercial viability of the project and guide the development of the terminal’s capacity. Traffic projections are particularly important for a multipurpose cargo facility because cargo volumes can vary depending on industrial activity, imports, exports and broader economic conditions. Developers will therefore need to evaluate future demand before finalising their investment and operational plans. The feasibility work will also provide a basis for determining the infrastructure and equipment required to serve projected cargo flows. The requirement for economic and financial assessments indicates that PQA is seeking commercially viable proposals rather than simply adding physical capacity to the port. Prequalification Deadline Set For September 29 Interested national and international bidders must submit their prequalification applications by September 29. PQA will review the applications and shortlist companies or consortiums that meet the required technical, financial and other eligibility criteria. The shortlisted groups will then be invited to submit detailed proposals for the project. The process is expected to move the proposed terminal into a more competitive development stage, where qualified bidders can present their plans for financing, construction and long-term operation.

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Oil Prices Fall as US Prepares New Sanctions on Iran

Web Desk / August 24, 2026

Oil prices slipped on Monday as investors took profits ahead of an expected announcement of fresh US sanctions targeting Iran. Brent crude fell by more than $1 a barrel to around $93.16, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) declined to approximately $85.70 per barrel. The decline came after oil prices had gained more than 5% during the previous week. Investors Await Details of New Iran Sanctions The latest movement in oil markets comes as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prepares to announce a new package of sanctions against Iran. Washington has indicated that the measures could target countries and businesses that continue trading with Tehran, potentially putting additional pressure on Iran’s oil exports and international trade relationships. For investors, however, the immediate focus remains on how severely the new measures could affect global crude supplies. Strait of Hormuz Remains a Major Risk The situation is particularly important because of continued uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and gas shipments. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have already disrupted energy flows in the region. Iran has warned that continued economic pressure could lead to restrictions on oil exports through the Gulf, raising concerns about a potentially wider supply shock. Any significant disruption around Hormuz could quickly affect international energy prices because of the importance of the waterway to global oil transportation. Why Did Oil Prices Fall Despite Supply Risks? The latest decline does not necessarily indicate that concerns about supply have disappeared. Instead, traders appear to be taking profits after last week’s strong rally while waiting for greater clarity on the scope of the new US sanctions. Brent had gained around 6.6% last week, leaving investors with an opportunity to lock in profits before the announcement. This means oil markets are currently balancing two opposing forces: potentially tighter supplies from Iran and the possibility that the new sanctions could further disrupt regional energy flows, versus short-term profit-taking by traders. Iran’s Oil Exports Face Fresh Pressure Iran remains heavily dependent on oil revenues, making restrictions on crude exports particularly important for its economy. The latest sanctions could make it more difficult for Iranian oil to reach international buyers and could increase the risks faced by companies, banks and shipping businesses involved in Iranian energy trade. China is particularly important because it has remained a major buyer of Iranian crude. Any measures aimed at countries purchasing Iranian oil could therefore have a significant impact on global trading patterns. What It Means for Global Oil Markets The direction of oil prices in the coming days will largely depend on how the sanctions are implemented and whether Iran responds with further restrictions on energy shipments. A limited sanctions package could allow markets to remain relatively stable. However, stronger enforcement against Iranian oil buyers or an escalation around the Strait of Hormuz could create renewed upward pressure on crude prices. Global inventories are already showing signs of tightening, adding another layer of uncertainty for energy markets. For oil-importing economies, a sustained rise in crude prices could increase transportation, electricity and industrial costs, potentially adding to inflationary pressures. Oil Market Outlook Remains Uncertain The latest decline in crude prices provides some temporary relief to consumers and oil-importing countries, but the broader outlook remains highly uncertain. Investors will closely monitor the details of the US sanctions, Iran’s response and developments around the Strait of Hormuz. For now, oil markets appear to be caught between profit-taking and growing concerns over supply disruptions. Any major escalation could quickly reverse the latest price decline.

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Pakistan Launches Licensing Framework For Virtual Assets And Crypto Services

Web Desk / August 24, 2026

Pakistan has introduced a formal licensing system for virtual asset businesses, bringing cryptocurrency and other digital-asset services under regulatory oversight. The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has opened an online licensing portal, while existing virtual asset operators must apply for a No-Objection Certificate by September 5, 2026. New Licences Cover Major Crypto Services The framework introduces 10 licensing categories, covering activities such as crypto exchanges, custody, brokerage, advisory services, lending, derivatives, asset management, transfers, token issuance and mining. The rules also require stronger safeguards, including separation of customer assets from company funds and compliance with anti-money-laundering and counter-terror financing requirements. Banking Access Opens For Licensed Firms Licensed virtual asset service providers will also have greater access to Pakistan’s formal banking system. This could make it easier for regulated businesses to manage payments and customer funds. The government is also exploring blockchain and tokenisation for areas including remittances, exports, trade finance and SME funding. Ten Categories Of Virtual Asset Licences The licensing framework covers a wide range of activities within the digital-asset industry. These include: Each category comes with its own requirements covering business conduct, financial safeguards, technology standards and anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism-financing obligations. This approach allows regulators to distinguish between businesses rather than applying identical requirements to every company operating in the sector. A New Direction For Pakistan’s Digital Economy The licensing framework could give Pakistan’s crypto industry greater certainty while improving consumer protection and financial transparency. Its long-term success, however, will depend on effective enforcement, regulatory capacity and creating enough space for responsible innovation.

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Haleon Pharma 2QCY26 Earnings Expected To Fall 9% As Volumes Decline And Costs Rise

Web Desk / August 22, 2026

Haleon Pakistan is expected to report weaker earnings for the second quarter of calendar year 2026, with declining sales volumes and rising input costs likely to put pressure on profitability. According to estimates from Optimus Capital, the company’s earnings per share (EPS) is projected at PKR 12.6, representing a 3% decline from the previous quarter and a 9% year-on-year drop. Profit after tax (PAT) is expected to come in at approximately PKR 1.5 billion. The anticipated decline reflects a combination of weaker domestic demand, limited pricing flexibility and higher production and transportation costs. Sales Volumes Expected To Weaken Haleon’s net sales are projected to decline 8% year-on-year during 2QCY26. The expected weakness is largely attributed to an estimated 3% decline in local volumes. The company’s FMCG-focused portfolio has also not received a price increase during the period under review. This leaves Haleon more exposed to changes in consumer demand, particularly at a time when households continue to face pressure from higher living costs. Lack Of Price Increases Adds Pressure Pricing has become an important earnings driver across Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector. Several pharmaceutical companies have benefited from price increases that helped offset higher input costs and protect margins. Haleon, however, has not enjoyed the same benefit during the quarter because its consumer-health portfolio has remained largely price-static. With volumes expected to decline and prices remaining unchanged, the company has limited room to absorb rising production and distribution expenses. Gross Margin Likely To Compress Haleon’s gross margin is expected to decline by around one percentage point sequentially to 38.2%. Higher active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) costs are expected to be a key factor behind the pressure. Pain-care products are particularly exposed to rising prices of relevant pharmaceutical ingredients. Transportation costs have also increased, adding another layer of pressure to the company’s cost structure. The combination of higher input and logistics expenses could continue to weigh on profitability if pricing remains unchanged. Dividend Expected To Remain At PKR9 Per Share Despite the expected decline in earnings, Optimus Capital projects a quarterly dividend of PKR9 per share. Maintaining the dividend would indicate continued confidence in Haleon’s cash-generation capacity despite weaker quarterly profitability. However, the expected payout also highlights the challenge facing the company: maintaining shareholder distributions while margins are under pressure from rising costs and weaker volumes. Haleon Faces A Different Sector Environment The broader pharmaceutical sector is expected to perform better during the period. Optimus Capital estimates that the pharmaceutical sector could record around a 6% increase in profit after tax, supported by price increases and lower financial charges. Haleon’s position is different because of its consumer-health and FMCG exposure. The company’s lack of pricing gains during the quarter means it is less able to offset cost inflation through higher selling prices. Export Challenges Add To Industry Pressure Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry is also facing external challenges. Constraints along the Afghan border continue to affect export opportunities for pharmaceutical companies, limiting potential growth from regional markets. For Haleon, however, the immediate concern appears to be domestic demand. A combination of weaker local volumes and higher API and logistics costs could remain a challenge if regional supply-chain pressures persist. API And Logistics Costs Remain Key Risks Haleon’s earnings outlook remains sensitive to movements in raw material and transportation costs. Any further increase in API prices could put additional pressure on gross margins. Higher freight and logistics expenses could have a similar impact, particularly if the company remains unable to pass these costs on to consumers through price increases. This makes cost management increasingly important for protecting profitability in the coming quarters. Volume Recovery Could Be Critical The company’s near-term performance will depend heavily on whether domestic volumes begin to recover. A rebound in consumer demand could provide support to revenue and help improve operating leverage. Selective pricing adjustments could also provide Haleon with greater flexibility to manage future cost increases. Without improvement in either volumes or pricing, however, the company could continue to lag behind pharmaceutical peers benefiting from stronger pricing dynamics. Haleon Earnings Outlook Remains Under Pressure The projected PKR12.6 EPS for 2QCY26 highlights the difficult operating environment facing Haleon. A projected 9% year-on-year earnings decline, an 8% fall in sales and expected gross-margin compression point to continued pressure on the company’s core operations. The expected PKR9 dividend provides some positive news for shareholders, but sustained earnings improvement will ultimately depend on stronger volumes and better control over API and transportation costs. For investors, the key indicators to watch in coming quarters will be domestic demand, pricing flexibility, API prices and logistics costs.

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Google Launches Digital Pasban In Pakistan To Improve Online Safety For 200,000 Households

Web Desk / August 21, 2026

Google has launched Digital Pasban in Pakistan, a new initiative aimed at helping 200,000 households improve online safety and develop stronger digital literacy skills. Google.org, the technology company’s philanthropic arm, has committed $500,000 to expand digital citizenship and artificial intelligence safety programmes across Pakistan. The initiative was unveiled at the “Safe Raho with Google” event on Thursday and will provide families with Urdu-language digital safety toolkits, instructional videos and practical training. The programme will reach families through schools, broadcast media, SMS alerts and campaigns conducted with partner organisations. Digital Pasban is being implemented in collaboration with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), with support from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training and Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination. The initiative is designed to help parents, children and guardians navigate the growing digital environment while understanding common online risks. Digital Pasban Focuses On Four Areas Of Online Safety The programme focuses on four key areas of digital safety and literacy, including parental controls, online safety education for children, responsible AI use and practical training for parents and guardians. Google’s Family Link will allow parents to manage their children’s screen time, approve applications, apply content filters and locate devices. Parents will also be able to use YouTube’s parental controls to manage age-appropriate content and establish healthier viewing habits. These controls include “Take a Break” and “Bedtime” reminders. Parents can also set limits on their children’s use of YouTube Shorts, including reducing Shorts usage to zero. The tools are intended to give parents greater control over their children’s digital activities while encouraging safer and more balanced internet use. Google Introduces Online Safety Programme For Children Digital Pasban will also use Google’s Be Internet Awesome programme for children between the ages of seven and 12. The programme uses interactive learning, including the Interland game, to teach children basic online safety principles. Children will learn about issues such as identifying scams, creating stronger passwords, behaving responsibly online and reporting inappropriate or concerning activity. The initiative aims to make digital safety education easier for younger users to understand by combining practical lessons with interactive activities. Google believes that teaching children responsible online behaviour at an early age can help them develop safer digital habits as internet access expands across Pakistan. Families To Learn About Safe And Responsible AI Use Artificial intelligence is another major component of Digital Pasban. The programme will introduce families to Google’s Gemini AI as a tool for responsible artificial intelligence use. Google said safeguards designed for minors restrict harmful role-play and inappropriate content. Gemini’s Guided Learning feature is also intended to help students understand difficult subjects through step-by-step explanations, questions and visual aids. The focus on AI safety comes as generative AI tools become increasingly accessible to students and families. Digital Pasban aims to help parents understand how AI tools can be used constructively while also encouraging them to remain aware of potential risks associated with online and AI-powered services. Parent Safety Clinics To Provide Practical Training The initiative will also organise safety clinics for parents and guardians. These sessions will provide hands-on guidance on digital safety and allow families to practise responding to common online risks. PTA Chairman Major General (Retired) Hafeez Ur Rehman said the programme would contribute towards creating a safer digital environment for children and families. He highlighted the importance of practical tools, localised resources and engagement through schools. Google’s Cluster Director for Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand and Frontier Markets, Farhan Qureshi, said the initiative was designed to help families benefit from the country’s expanding digital ecosystem while keeping children safer online. The company said Digital Pasban builds on its previous digital education and safety initiatives in Pakistan. Google Expands Digital Literacy Efforts In Pakistan Google said its Digital Safar programme has already trained more than 300,000 students and 5,000 educators in digital citizenship. The company has also partnered with Punjab’s Ministry of Education to introduce Google for Education and AI-powered learning and safety resources to 1.5 million students. The latest initiative expands those efforts by bringing digital safety resources directly to families and parents. With the internet, social media platforms and AI tools becoming increasingly important in education and everyday life, the Digital Pasban programme seeks to improve awareness of online risks while helping Pakistani families use digital technology more responsibly. The $500,000 Google.org commitment is expected to support the expansion of digital citizenship and AI-safety programmes, while the involvement of government institutions and schools could help the initiative reach a wider audience. The programme’s focus on Urdu-language resources, school engagement and practical parent training is intended to make online safety guidance more accessible to families across Pakistan.