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SBP Unveils New Official Website Effective July 1, 2026
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SBP Unveils New Official Website Effective July 1, 2026

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is pleased to announce the launch of its redesigned official website, which will go live on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, and will be accessible to all stakeholders at www.sbp.org.pk. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ogdc-completes-chak-63-05-development-well-in-sanghar-sindh/ The revamped website will provide a faster, easier and user-friendly digital experience for citizens, businesses, financial institutions, researchers, journalists and other stakeholders. Designed as a modern, secure and inclusive digital platform, the new website will provide easier access to SBP’s information. Its launch marks an important milestone in SBP’s digital transformation agenda and reflects continued commitment to transparency, innovation and meaningful stakeholder engagement. Modern Interface and Improved Accessibility Developed following extensive research and stakeholder consultations, the website has been comprehensively redesigned to better serve the diverse needs of its users. It features an intuitive interface with simplified navigation, enabling visitors to find information more quickly and efficiently. Enhanced search functionality and filtering options make it easier to locate data, circulars, regulations, publications, press releases and other official content. The website shall be fully responsive across desktops, smartphones and other devices, ensuring a seamless browsing experience. Bilingual Platform to Improve Public Access To promote greater inclusivity and wider public outreach, the website offers a bilingual interface in English and Urdu, allowing users to switch between languages according to their preference. It has also been developed in accordance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and incorporates accessibility features that improve usability for persons with disabilities. Behind the improved user experience is a reorganized information architecture that presents key areas such as monetary policy, financial markets data, banking regulations and other SBP functions in a more logical and intuitive manner, while preserving access to legacy content. Supporting Digital Transformation and Financial Inclusion The revamped website strengthens SBP’s ability to communicate effectively with the public and supports the Bank’s broader vision of leveraging technology to deliver efficient, transparent and citizen-centric services. By making reliable information and digital resources more readily available, the website shall augment financial literacy and inclusion, while contributing to informed decision-making and stronger engagement with the financial system among all stakeholders. The new website will provide all institutional information, publications, and resources in an enhanced and user-friendly interface. However, to facilitate stakeholders who wish to reference the earlier interface, the previous version of the website will remain available through a dedicated link on the homepage until July 15, 2026.

SBP Forex Reserves Fall $1.305bn Due to External Debt Repayments
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SBP Forex Reserves Fall $1.305bn Due to External Debt Repayments

The foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan fell by $1.305 billion during the week ended June 19, 2026. The central bank attributed this decline mainly to external debt repayments. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/attack-on-rangers-a-cowardly-act-security-forces-swift-response-commendable-business-community/ Details of the Reserve Position The SBP’s foreign exchange reserves stood at $15.916 billion as of June 19. This was a decrease from $17.221 billion a week earlier. The total liquid foreign reserves of the country were $21.484 billion on the same date. Commercial banks held $5.568 billion in net foreign reserves. Inflows and Future Projections The central bank highlighted that inflows would soon increase the reserves. These include a $0.7 billion inflow from multilateral institutions to the government. Refinancing of government commercial loans is expected to add about $1.7 billion. The total $2.4 billion will be reflected in SBP reserves as on June 30. The SBP has projected its foreign exchange reserves to reach approximately $18 billion by the end of FY26. This outlook is based on the expected inflows and reserve management. Weekly fluctuations in reserves often occur due to debt servicing and other flows. The recent drop is linked directly to external debt repayments made during the period. The central bank monitors these movements closely as part of its mandate. Healthy reserve levels are vital for meeting the country’s external financing needs. The latest data offers a clear snapshot of the current forex position. Inflows lined up for the end of the month are set to improve the holdings. This should help bring the reserves closer to the projected level. The SBP continues its efforts to maintain stability in the external sector. Such updates are important for market participants and policymakers alike. The reserve position serves as an important barometer for economic resilience. Authorities focus on sustaining adequate levels through prudent management. Regular reporting enhances transparency in the financial system.

France Records 1,000 Excess Deaths as Europe Endures Record Heatwave
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France Records 1,000 Excess Deaths as Europe Endures Record Heatwave

France has recorded around 1,000 excess deaths during the record-breaking heatwave that swept across Europe. Health authorities have warned that the true figure is expected to rise as more data from care homes and private residences becomes available. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/trump-threatens-to-slam-100-tariffs-on-digital-tax-imposers-global-trade-tensions-soar/ Mounting Health Crisis in France Most of the victims were elderly people. Many lived in residential care facilities or private homes without adequate cooling. Health Minister Stephanie Rist said the effects of the extreme heat could linger for up to 10 days. She stressed that the episode is not finished. French health officials are still compiling complete figures. Additional deaths are anticipated in the coming days and weeks. Hospitals and emergency services faced intense pressure during the peak. They dealt with a sharp rise in heat-related illnesses among vulnerable groups. The heatwave began on June 20 and pushed temperatures to 40 degrees Celsius in several areas. Night-time heat offered little recovery time for those at risk. Public health teams are now urging neighbours and families to check on older residents. Access to water, shade and medical help remains critical. Climate Change Intensifies the Threat Scientists have stated that this heatwave would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change. Extreme night-time temperatures are now 100 times more likely than two decades ago. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that 150 million people across Europe endured extreme heat. He warned that homes, workplaces and schools remain ill-equipped for such conditions. Events once described as once-in-a-generation are now occurring nearly every year. This shift is placing growing strain on public health systems. France’s northeast still remains under heat advisories. The rest of the country has seen partial relief after storms brought cooler air. The full scale of the health impact is still emerging. Long-term improvements in care facilities and urban cooling are now seen as urgent priorities.

Trump Threatens to Slam 100% Tariffs on Digital Tax Imposers, Global Trade Tensions Soar
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Trump Threatens to Slam 100% Tariffs on Digital Tax Imposers, Global Trade Tensions Soar

US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning, threatening to impose a 100% tariff on goods from any country that enacts a digital services tax targeting American companies. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-iran-trade-revival-hits-banking-and-barter-hurdles-despite-10bn-ambition/ This aggressive stance comes amid ongoing transatlantic frictions. It follows EU efforts to ease tariffs on US goods to meet Trump’s July 4 deadline. Escalating Trade Tensions Trump made the announcement via social media. He highlighted discussions in several European nations about implementing such taxes on US tech firms. The move would override existing trade agreements. This includes the recent US-EU deal capping certain tariffs. French President Emmanuel Macron has resisted pressure. France maintains its digital tax on major tech platforms. Global Implications for Tech and Trade Digital services taxes aim to capture revenue from online advertising, marketplaces, and other services. US firms like Google, Amazon, and Meta dominate these sectors. Countries including France, the UK, Italy, and others have pursued these levies. They argue that traditional tax rules fail to address the digital economy. Critics, including the US, view them as discriminatory. They claim the taxes unfairly target American innovation.For developing economies, the ripple effects could be significant. Heightened protectionism may disrupt global supply chains and investment flows. Pakistan’s Perspective Pakistan has been expanding its digital taxation framework. Recent budgets introduced measures on social media income and digital platforms to broaden the tax base. While not directly mirroring European DSTs, any escalation in US tariffs could affect bilateral trade. Pakistan’s exports to the US, particularly textiles and other goods, remain vital. Analysts warn that broader trade wars might complicate FDI inflows. Pakistan’s IT and fintech sectors, key growth areas, could face indirect pressures. The development underscores the need for cautious policy. Balancing revenue goals with international trade relations will be crucial. Experts suggest monitoring multilateral talks. OECD efforts for global tax reform remain relevant amid these unilateral actions. This latest threat highlights the fragile balance in US relations with trading partners. Markets are watching closely for potential fallout.

Flawed 2023 Policy Blocks Foreign Oil Storage Investments in Pakistan
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Flawed 2023 Policy Blocks Foreign Oil Storage Investments in Pakistan

Pakistan has failed to attract any foreign oil supplier to establish bonded storage facilities under the 2023 policy. The government is now amending the framework to create a more favourable environment for international investors after recent supply shocks. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/oil-companies-oppose-fuel-price-cuts-warn-government-of-financial-crisis/ Crisis Exposes Critical Gaps in Reserves The Iran-US conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz exposed serious weaknesses in Pakistan’s energy supply chain. All oil imports transit through this narrow waterway, leaving the country highly exposed to disruptions. Pakistan remains the only nation in the region without strategic petroleum reserves. India, in contrast, has developed reserves with support from the UAE to protect against similar risks. Gas supplies from Qatar were also interrupted, worsening shortages during the crisis period. The absence of reserves means any prolonged supply interruption could quickly trigger widespread fuel scarcity across the country. This would disrupt transport, industry and daily economic activity for citizens. Committee Pushes for Policy Overhaul Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has directly engaged key oil-producing countries to invite them to set up storage projects in Pakistan. Kuwait has already expressed initial interest in the proposal. Land earlier allocated to the UAE for the Khalifa refinery and storages was never developed. A dedicated committee was constituted on May 7, 2026 to review the existing bonded storage policy and recommend changes. The panel held multiple meetings with major petroleum traders to gather practical feedback before preparing a draft. The amended policy draft has now been circulated to relevant ministries for their comments. Under the proposed rules, the government would retain first right of access to oil held in these foreign-managed reserves. Suppliers would still be allowed to export oil from the storages when required. The petroleum division had briefed the ECC on the need for strategic storages as a core pillar of energy security. No foreign supplier has established any bonded storage facility under the original 2023 policy. These reforms form part of broader efforts to strengthen energy security through strategic reserves and greater indigenisation. Plans to develop gas storages in depleted fields have similarly seen little progress so far. Success with partners like Kuwait could open doors for similar collaborations with Saudi Arabia and Qatar on both oil and gas storage. By offering clearer terms and balanced incentives, officials aim to position Pakistan as an attractive destination for long-term regional energy investments.

Oil Returns to Pre-War Levels as Hormuz Traffic Rebounds
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Oil Returns to Pre-War Levels as Hormuz Traffic Rebounds

Global oil markets stabilised as traffic through the Strait of Hormuz returned toward pre-war levels. This followed disruptions caused by the recent Iran conflict. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/oil-companies-oppose-fuel-price-cuts-warn-government-of-financial-crisis/ Shipping Recovery Details U.S. officials reported shipments approaching normal volumes, with significant daily exits recorded. The recovery eases immediate concerns over energy supply chains critical to the global economy. Iran continued to assert influence, warning against uncoordinated shipping routes. Meanwhile, temporary lanes were announced in coordination with Oman and the UN. Diplomatic Reassurance and Domestic Tensions Secretary of State Marco Rubio toured the Gulf to build support for the preliminary accord with Tehran. He assured allies that the U.S. would not accept Iranian tolls on the strait. The effort addresses regional scepticism over the deal’s terms, including financial incentives for Iran. Gulf states worry about potential military rebuilding and unaddressed missile capabilities. In Washington, Trump faced internal Republican pushback over the war and deal framework. Despite this, Senate leaders backed measures maintaining administration flexibility. Broader talks are expected in the coming 60 days. Parallel developments include discussions on Israel-Lebanon issues linked to the wider regional settlement.

NCCIA Opens Inquiry Into Social Media Content Targeting Easypaisa Bank Regarding Its Financial Stability And Operational Continuity
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NCCIA Opens Inquiry Into Social Media Content Targeting Easypaisa Bank Regarding Its Financial Stability And Operational Continuity

Islamanad, 25th June 2026: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has initiated an inquiry into the alleged spread of false and misleading information targeting easypaisa bank limited across social media and digital platforms over the past two weeks. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ogdc-poised-for-strong-recovery-with-baragzai-boost-and-sector-reforms/ The complaint was filed by Mr Naresh Kumar Aruwani, Head of Country Litigation at easypaisa bank limited, seeking legal action against individuals accused of creating and amplifying content aimed at undermining public confidence in the bank. Commenting on the matter, Mr Naresh Kumar Aruwani stated that the deliberate spread of false information against a regulated financial institution not only harms the institution but also risks undermining confidence in Pakistan’s broader banking ecosystem. He added that easypaisa remains financially strong and fully operational and expressed confidence that authorities would take appropriate legal action. According to sources, the inquiry has been assigned to a Senior Officer at NCCIA, who has initiated proceedings under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA) to identify and proceed against all persons involved in the creation and dissemination of the impugned content. The complaint alleges that certain influencers and digital content creators circulated exaggerated and misleading claims regarding the bank’s financial stability and operational continuity, encouraging customers to withdraw funds and creating unnecessary panic. easypaisa bank limited has strongly denied the allegations, calling the claims false, baseless, and fake news. The bank reaffirmed that its services remain fully operational and customer funds are secure. As Pakistan’s first mobile wallet launched in 2008 and now the country’s leading digital bank regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan, easypaisa serves over 60 million registered users nationwide and remains committed to financial inclusion, customer protection, and operational resilience. The bank clarified that while some digital services experienced temporary technical disruptions during the relevant period, the issue was operational in nature, promptly resolved, and did not affect customer deposits or the bank’s financial stability. easypaisa has urged customers to rely only on official communications and verified regulatory announcements while reiterating its commitment to protecting customer interests and pursuing legal remedies against misinformation.

Oil Prices Extend Losses as Strait of Hormuz Traffic Resumes
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Oil Prices Extend Losses as Strait of Hormuz Traffic Resumes

Global oil prices fell by more than 1% on Wednesday, extending losses recorded earlier this week as signs emerged that oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are gradually recovering. The decline pushed both major crude benchmarks close to their lowest levels in four months. Brent and WTI Crude Continue to Decline Brent crude futures dropped 78 cents, or 1%, to $76.30 per barrel by 0350 GMT. Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 78 cents, or 1.1%, to $72.43 per barrel. Both benchmarks had already settled around 1% lower on Tuesday and touched their lowest levels since early March. The latest decline reflects growing confidence among traders that oil supplies from the Middle East will continue to flow despite recent regional tensions. Increased Strait of Hormuz Traffic Boosts Market Confidence Market analysts pointed to improving shipping activity in the Strait of Hormuz as a major factor behind the fall in prices. Commodity strategists at ING noted that positive developments in the Persian Gulf have increased optimism about oil transportation through the strategic waterway. According to analysts, vessel crossings have risen in recent days, although traffic remains below levels seen before the recent conflict. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, carrying a significant portion of global oil exports. Any disruption to shipping in the area often leads to sharp increases in energy prices. US-Iran Diplomatic Progress Weighs on Crude Markets Oil prices also came under pressure after Washington granted Tehran a 60-day sanctions waiver following initial peace talks. The waiver allows Iran to continue selling oil while negotiations continue. Analysts believe the development has eased concerns about potential supply disruptions and could increase crude availability in international markets. Tomomichi Akuta, Senior Economist at Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting, said hopes for easing tensions between the United States and Iran, along with the recovery of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, have weighed heavily on crude prices. He added that further progress in nuclear negotiations could push oil prices back to levels seen before the recent regional conflict. Oman and Iran Continue Navigation Talks Diplomatic discussions regarding the future administration of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz also continued this week. According to reports, Oman and Iran agreed to continue consultations on managing navigation through the strategic waterway. At the same time, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that any Iranian attempt to impose transit fees on ships passing through the strait would violate international law. Despite these developments, uncertainty remains over the long-term stability of the agreement and the future of regional security arrangements. Conflicting Statements on Nuclear Inspections Questions also remain regarding the progress of nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Iran had agreed to nuclear inspections “into infinity.” However, Iranian officials denied making such a commitment during ongoing talks. The conflicting statements have created uncertainty among investors, who continue to monitor diplomatic developments closely. Stranded Tankers Begin Moving Through Strait Shipping activity showed further signs of improvement as several vessels successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz. An Iranian military source told local media that a limited number of ships are being allowed to transit the waterway each day under coordination with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy. Ship-tracking data indicated that three stranded supertankers successfully crossed the strait on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the United Nations shipping agency confirmed that an evacuation plan is underway to help hundreds of vessels and approximately 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Gulf resume their journeys following the US-Iran ceasefire agreement. The gradual restoration of maritime traffic has eased fears of a prolonged disruption to global energy supplies. Investors Watch Supply Recovery Market participants are now focused on how quickly Middle Eastern oil producers can restore exports to normal levels and whether more vessels will return to the region. A faster recovery in shipments could increase global supply and place additional downward pressure on crude prices in the coming weeks. US Crude Inventories Show Modest Decline Meanwhile, inventory data offered mixed signals for the oil market. According to market sources citing figures from the American Petroleum Institute (API), US crude oil inventories fell by 765,000 barrels during the week ending June 19. The decline was smaller than expected. Analysts surveyed by Reuters had forecast an average drawdown of approximately 4.5 million barrels. The lower-than-expected inventory reduction suggests that supply conditions remain relatively comfortable despite recent geopolitical disruptions. Outlook for Oil Markets Oil markets remain highly sensitive to developments in the Middle East. While improving shipping conditions and diplomatic progress have eased immediate concerns, traders continue to monitor the durability of the US-Iran ceasefire and ongoing nuclear negotiations. For now, increased vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz and expectations of higher oil supplies are keeping downward pressure on prices. However, any setback in negotiations or disruption to shipping routes could quickly reverse the trend and reignite volatility in global energy markets.

Select Technologies Limited’s IPO oversubscribed by 3.2 times, subscribed at Rs34 per share
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Select Technologies Limited’s IPO oversubscribed by 3.2 times, subscribed at Rs34 per share

Karachi, June 23: Select Technologies Limited’s Initial Public Offering book-building process was fully subscribed at Rs34 per share, above the floor price of PKR 28 per share. The Company offered 66.67 million ordinary shares, and the offering was oversubscribed by 3.2 times. This strong demand reflects investor confidence in both Pakistan’s expanding smart devices and consumer electronics manufacturing sector and the Company’s growth potential. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ogdc-poised-for-strong-recovery-with-baragzai-boost-and-sector-reforms/ Select Technologies Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Air Link Communication Limited, manufactures and assembles smartphones, smart TVs, air conditioners, and other consumer appliances in Pakistan. The Company plans to expand into higher-margin consumer technology and home appliance segments. Muzzaffar Hayat Piracha, Group CEO of Air Link Communication Limited, stated that the investor response demonstrates confidence in the Group’s long-term vision. “Select Technologies represents our commitment to building a stronger local manufacturing platform for smartphones, smart devices, and consumer electronics in Pakistan. The successful subscription of the book-building process is a vote of confidence in our strategy and our partnerships,” he said. Shahid Ali Habib, CEO of Arif Habib Limited, noted that the successful book-building indicates strong investor interest in fundamentally sound companies within high-growth sectors. “The strong response to Select Technologies’ IPO highlights investors’ confidence in Pakistan’s capital market and in companies that are contributing to import substitution, industrial growth, and local value addition. We are pleased to be associated with this transaction,” he said. The IPO proceeds will support the Company’s expansion plans and reinforce its position in Pakistan’s evolving consumer technology sector.

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