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Descon Oxychem Profit Plunges to Rs 303m as Sales, Margins Shrink
Business

Descon Oxychem Profit Plunges to Rs 303m as Sales, Margins Shrink

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Descon Oxychem Reports Sharp Decline in FY26 Profit Descon Oxychem Limited’s annual profit more than halved in the year ended June 30, 2026, as lower sales and compressed margins weighed heavily on its financial performance. On a standalone basis, net profit declined 62 percent to Rs303.3 million from Rs790.2 million a year earlier. Earnings per share (EPS) fell to Rs1.73 from Rs4.51. Net sales also decreased 16 percent to Rs4.99 billion from Rs5.92 billion. Gross Profit Nearly Halves The decline in sales was accompanied by significant pressure on profitability. Standalone gross profit fell almost half to Rs864.4 million from Rs1.70 billion in the previous year. Operating profit dropped to Rs370.7 million from Rs1.26 billion, reflecting the combined impact of weaker sales and tighter margins. The company also faced a sharp increase in financing expenses. Finance cost surged to Rs64.9 million from just Rs9.9 million a year earlier. Other income, however, increased to Rs136.6 million during the year. Consolidated Earnings Also Fall Sharply The group’s consolidated results were stronger than the parent-only figures but still showed a substantial decline. Consolidated sales stood at Rs5.11 billion, compared with Rs6.00 billion in FY25. Net profit attributable to shareholders fell to Rs393.6 million from Rs860.2 million a year earlier, while consolidated EPS declined to Rs2.25 from Rs4.91. The figures indicate that the decline in profitability extended across the group despite the consolidated business generating slightly higher earnings than the standalone company. Dividend Maintained Despite Lower Earnings Despite the steep fall in profit, the board recommended a final cash dividend of Rs2 per share, equivalent to 20 percent. Descon Oxychem had already paid an interim dividend of Rs2 per share for the half-year ended December 31, 2025. If approved, the final payout will take the full-year cash distribution to Rs4 per share, maintaining the same Rs2 interim and Rs2 final dividend pattern followed last year. No bonus shares or right shares have been recommended. Equity Declines as Dividends Exceed Profit The company’s weaker earnings were also reflected in its standalone balance sheet. Shareholders’ equity declined to Rs2.87 billion from Rs3.27 billion. During the year, Rs700 million of dividends were charged against profit of Rs303 million. This means the company distributed substantially more than the profit generated during FY26, contributing to the reduction in equity. Short-Term Borrowings Rise Sharply Descon Oxychem also recorded a significant increase in short-term borrowings under markup arrangements. These borrowings rose to around Rs705 million from Rs114 million a year earlier. Meanwhile, cash and bank balances fell to Rs100 million from Rs192 million. The combination of higher short-term borrowing and lower cash reserves points to greater pressure on the company’s working-capital position during the year. Annual General Meeting Scheduled for October 20 The company’s annual general meeting will be held on October 20, 2026, at 10am at Descon Headquarters, located at 18-km Ferozepur Road, Lahore. The share transfer books will remain closed from October 13 to October 20. Share transfers received by Corplink (Pvt) Limited, Lahore, by October 12 will be eligible for consideration for the proposed dividend. Profitability Remains the Key Challenge Descon Oxychem’s FY26 results highlight a difficult year, with declining sales, sharply lower gross and operating profits and a substantial rise in finance costs. While the company has maintained its dividend pattern, the payout comes against a much weaker earnings base and has contributed to pressure on shareholders’ equity. The key challenge going forward will be restoring sales growth and margins while managing borrowing costs and preserving sufficient liquidity.

CCP, NFA sign MoU to Strengthen Competition Law Enforcement
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CCP, NFA sign MoU to Strengthen Competition Law Enforcement

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CCP and NFA Join Hands to Improve Competition Law Enforcement The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) and the National Forensics Agency (NFA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen institutional cooperation and bring advanced forensic capabilities into competition law enforcement. The agreement was signed at the CCP Headquarters in Islamabad in the presence of CCP Chairman Farid Ahmad Tarar and NFA Director General Jawad Ahmad Dogar. CCP Member Bushra Naz Malik and senior officials from both institutions also attended the signing ceremony. Stronger Investigations Through Scientific Evidence Speaking at the ceremony, CCP Chairman Farid Ahmad Tarar said effective enforcement increasingly depends on reliable evidence, scientific analysis and specialised technical expertise alongside a strong legal framework. He said the partnership would strengthen the Commission’s investigative capabilities by allowing it to benefit from the NFA’s forensic expertise. The collaboration comes as commercial activities and evidence are increasingly shifting into digital environments. This has created new challenges for regulators investigating potentially complex competition-related matters involving electronic and digital evidence. Digital Evidence Becomes Increasingly Important The growing use of digital platforms, electronic communications and technology-driven business systems means that competition investigations can involve evidence in formats that require specialised technical examination. Under the new partnership, the CCP will be able to draw on NFA expertise in handling and analysing digital and electronic evidence. This is expected to support investigations where conventional evidence-gathering methods may not be sufficient. The agreement also reflects the increasing importance of forensic capabilities in modern regulatory enforcement, particularly as businesses generate and store large volumes of digital information. NFA Offers Technical and Forensic Support NFA Director General Jawad Ahmad Dogar described the CCP as an important national institution whose work contributes to maintaining a level playing field and protecting citizens’ rights. He outlined the development of the NFA and the specialised forensic capabilities the agency has built over time. Dogar reaffirmed the NFA’s commitment to providing technical assistance to the CCP and offered support in digital, document and other forensic disciplines. He also described the MoU as the starting point for a long-term institutional relationship between the two organisations. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation covering forensic examination, technical assistance and capacity building. The partnership will allow the CCP to benefit from the NFA’s specialised scientific expertise when examining and analysing evidence relevant to competition law matters. Beyond investigations, the two institutions will also promote knowledge sharing and technical training. Closer coordination between the agencies is expected to help develop institutional expertise and improve the handling of technically complex evidence. A Broader Approach to Competition Enforcement The agreement comes at a time when competition regulators face increasingly sophisticated commercial practices and rapidly evolving technologies. For the CCP, access to specialised forensic capabilities can provide an additional layer of technical support in investigations. For the NFA, the partnership expands the practical application of its forensic expertise within an important area of economic regulation. The cooperation therefore goes beyond a single technical arrangement and creates a framework for continued institutional engagement. Partnership Could Strengthen Regulatory Capacity The effectiveness of competition law depends not only on legislation but also on the ability of enforcement institutions to establish facts through credible and properly analysed evidence. By combining the CCP’s regulatory and competition-law expertise with the NFA’s forensic capabilities, the MoU is intended to strengthen that investigative process. The partnership could become particularly relevant in cases involving digital records, electronic documents and other technically complex forms of evidence.

Naya Nazimabad Apartments REIT Book Building Oversubscribed 8 Times
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Naya Nazimabad Apartments REIT Book Building Oversubscribed 8 Times

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Strong Investor Response Pushes Bids to PKR 4.5 Billion Naya Nazimabad Apartments REIT has received a strong response from investors, with its book-building process oversubscribed by eight times and attracting total bids of approximately PKR 4.5 billion. The response highlights growing investor confidence in the offering and the underlying Naya Nazimabad development, while also pointing to increasing interest in professionally managed real estate investment opportunities. Units Hit Upper Price Ceiling Investor demand pushed the issue price to the upper ceiling of PKR 23 per unit, representing a 28% increase over the floor price. The offering successfully raised PKR 1 billion in equity, marking a significant milestone for the Naya Nazimabad Apartments REIT. Public Subscription Set for September 7 and 8 Following the successful book-building process, the general public subscription will take place on September 7 and 8, 2026. The public portion accounts for 25% of the total offer, while the remaining 75% has been allocated through the book-building process. REIT Market Gains Investor Interest The strong participation reflects growing interest in Pakistan’s REIT market and its potential to provide investors with access to real estate as an investable asset class. Naya Nazimabad Apartments REIT is managed by Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Limited, while Arif Habib Limited is serving as Lead Manager. Investor Confidence Supports Capital Market Development Commenting on the successful book building, Shahid Ali Habib, CEO of Arif Habib Limited, said the eight-times oversubscription and demand at the upper price ceiling demonstrate strong investor confidence in the offering. He also highlighted the potential of well-structured real estate investment products to expand access to property-related investments in Pakistan. The successful offering further reinforces the role REITs can play in broadening investment opportunities, attracting capital toward professionally managed real estate projects and supporting the continued development of Pakistan’s capital markets.

Meezan Bank Approves Over PKR 31.5 Billion in Ghar Ho Tu Apna Financing for 4,400+ Applicants
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Meezan Bank Approves Over PKR 31.5 Billion in Ghar Ho Tu Apna Financing for 4,400+ Applicants

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Strong Demand for Affordable Housing Finance Meezan Bank has approved more than PKR 31.45 billion in housing finance for 4,424 applications under the Government of Pakistan’s Wazir-e-Azam Apna Ghar Programme – Ghar Ho Tu Apna (GHTA). The figures highlight strong demand for affordable and Shariah-compliant housing finance across Pakistan. The approved amount represents a substantial financing pipeline that could translate into further disbursements as applicants complete property selection, documentation and other required procedures. Meezan Bank Crosses PKR 4 Billion in Disbursements Against the growing approval pipeline, Meezan Bank has already crossed PKR 4 billion in cumulative disbursements under the programme. The financing has supported around 650 families, helping them move closer to owning their homes. The disbursements demonstrate that the programme is gradually translating approved applications into actual housing opportunities. August Brings Sharp Increase in Financing Activity Financing activity accelerated significantly during August 2026. Meezan Bank disbursed approximately PKR 2.2 billion during the month alone. This amount represents more than half of the bank’s cumulative disbursements under the programme so far, highlighting a sharp increase in financing activity and customer demand. Focus on Shariah-Compliant Home Financing Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, Group Head Consumer Finance at Meezan Bank, said the approval of more than PKR 31.5 billion across over 4,400 applications demonstrates significant demand for affordable and Shariah-compliant housing finance in Pakistan. He added that the bank’s focus is now on converting the approved financing pipeline into home ownership for thousands of additional customers. Through its Easy Home solutions, Meezan Bank provides Shariah-compliant financing for purchasing and constructing residential properties. Nationwide Network Supports Applicants Meezan Bank is using its nationwide branch network and specialised housing finance teams to facilitate applicants under the government programme. The bank is also working to streamline customer processes so that approved applicants can move through property selection, documentation and financing requirements more efficiently. Housing Finance Could Support Pakistan’s Residential Market The growing approval and disbursement figures underline the increasing demand for Islamic housing finance in Pakistan. If the approved financing pipeline continues to convert into completed transactions, the programme could provide additional support to the residential housing sector while expanding access to formal home financing. For thousands of applicants, the bigger significance lies in turning financing approvals into actual home ownership. The pace of future disbursements will therefore be an important measure of the programme’s overall impact.

Standard Chartered, Dolmen Group Partner To Offer Home Ownership Benefits In Karachi
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Standard Chartered, Dolmen Group Partner To Offer Home Ownership Benefits In Karachi

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Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan and Dolmen Group have joined hands to offer exclusive home ownership benefits to eligible clients interested in Grove Residency, a new residential development in Karachi. Under the partnership, qualifying buyers can receive savings of at least PKR 5 million on eligible purchases, along with tailored home financing options. Exclusive Financing For Eligible Buyers The collaboration combines Standard Chartered’s home finance expertise with Dolmen Group’s property development experience. Eligible clients will also have access to Saadiq Home Finance, offering flexible financing solutions designed to support buyers in managing one of their biggest long-term investments. Grove Residency Targets Modern Homebuyers Located near the KPT Interchange, Grove Residency is positioned as a modern residential development in one of Karachi’s emerging housing corridors. The partnership aims to give prospective homeowners greater financial flexibility while combining property and financing solutions under one offering. Focus On Long-Term Home Ownership Standard Chartered said the initiative reflects its focus on providing customers with financing solutions suited to their individual financial needs and long-term goals. For Dolmen Group, the collaboration is aimed at improving access to financing while supporting its vision of developing modern residential communities in Karachi. The partnership highlights the growing role of customised financing in Pakistan’s real estate market as buyers seek greater value and flexibility when purchasing homes.

Unity Foods Faces FIA Criminal Case Over Alleged Rs 44.7 Billion Accounting Gap
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Unity Foods Faces FIA Criminal Case Over Alleged Rs 44.7 Billion Accounting Gap

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The Unity Foods FIA case has sent a major warning signal through Pakistan’s corporate and capital markets after the Federal Investigation Agency registered a criminal case against former senior executives of Unity Foods Limited. The FIA alleges that billions of rupees were diverted from the KSE-100 listed edible oil company through a series of questionable transactions, while an estimated Rs 44.7 billion difference emerged between the company’s published financial statements and its internal SAP records. The allegations are serious because they do not relate to a single disputed transaction or accounting error. According to the FIR, the suspected activities stretch across several financial years and involve company funds, rights issue proceeds, related-party transactions, subsidiaries, bank deposits and financial reporting. However, the allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings. The registration of an FIR does not establish criminal liability. Unity Foods FIA Case Begins After SECP Regulatory Inquiry The Corporate Crime Circle of FIA Karachi registered FIR No. FIR-CCC-KHI-15/26 on August 29, 2026, following a referral from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan. The case names former Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Farrukh Amin Godil, his mother Fehmida Amin, former Chief Financial Officer Jalees Edhi, former director and later CEO Amir Shehzad, and director Safdar Sajjad. The accused have been booked under provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code dealing with criminal breach of trust, cheating, falsification of accounts, abetment and common intention. The investigation follows SECP Inquiry No. 47/2026. FIA Assistant Director Umayad Arshad Butt has been assigned to investigate the allegations. Six Allegations Put Billions of Rupees Under the Microscope According to the FIR, investigators have identified six major areas of concern. The first involves alleged payments of approximately Rs 5.32 billion linked to loans recorded in the name of Fehmida Amin, the former CEO’s mother. The FIA alleges that these transactions lacked appropriate banking instruments and board approvals. The second concerns Unity Foods’ Rs 3.75 billion rights issue launched in February 2019. The company had stated that the funds would finance acquisitions and expansion projects, including its Port Qasim refinery and a proposed oil storage terminal. The FIR alleges that only around Rs 876.6 million could be substantiated, leaving approximately Rs 2.87 billion unexplained. A third allegation involves Rs 2.6 billion allegedly advanced through subsidiary Sunridge Foods to two undisclosed parties. Around Rs 2 billion reportedly remained outstanding and interest-free when the exposure was presented to the Unity Foods board in February 2026. Rs 12.45 Billion Deposit Liens Raise Balance Sheet Concerns Another major allegation concerns Unity Technologies and Unity Plantations, former subsidiaries that the FIA says were transferred without proper due diligence or arm’s-length procedures. The FIR alleges that Unity Foods’ own bank deposits, including approximately Rs 7.25 billion at BankIslami Pakistan and Rs 5.2 billion at Al Baraka Bank Pakistan, were pledged against borrowings associated with a company that Unity Foods no longer owned. This allegation is particularly important for investors because pledged corporate cash can directly affect liquidity and financing risk. The FIA describes the arrangement as a circular movement of funds. Whether that characterization survives detailed investigation will depend on documentary evidence, banking records and the explanations provided by the parties involved. Al-Shaheer Deal Adds Related-Party Questions The FIA has also raised questions about transactions involving Al-Shaheer Corporation. According to the FIR, while Farrukh Godil was Unity Foods’ CEO, an agreement was signed concerning the acquisition of Al-Shaheer shares through several nominees, including individuals connected with Unity Foods’ management. The FIA alleges that approximately Rs 1.1 billion worth of goods were subsequently transferred from Unity Foods to Al-Shaheer without corresponding recovery. Additional expenses were allegedly paid through Sunridge Foods. If substantiated, the allegations could raise significant questions about conflicts of interest, related-party governance and the use of corporate resources. Rs 44.7 Billion Accounting Gap Is the Biggest Red Flag The most consequential allegation in the Unity Foods FIA case concerns the reported Rs 44.7 billion difference between published accounts and SAP records. The FIR refers to alleged fictitious or inadequately supported receivables, an inventory shortfall of around Rs 5.2 billion, approximately Rs 5 billion in aged receivables attributed to Sunridge Mart, delayed sales recognition and inconsistencies in trade-payable reconciliations. The company also reportedly failed to prepare or publish its half-yearly accounts for the period ended December 31, 2025. This is where the case becomes much bigger than an alleged diversion of funds. For investors, audited financial statements are the foundation upon which investment decisions are made. If the investigation ultimately establishes that published accounts materially differed from underlying company records, the issue could extend beyond individual transactions to the credibility of the company’s financial reporting and governance framework. Why the Unity Foods FIA Case Matters to Investors Unity Foods is a significant listed company with exposure to Pakistan’s edible oil and consumer food markets. Its shareholder structure also includes interests associated with Singapore-based agribusiness major Wilmar International. That makes the allegations particularly sensitive for minority shareholders, lenders and the wider Pakistan Stock Exchange. A reported Rs 44.7 billion accounting discrepancy against total assets of roughly Rs 77.5 billion would represent a substantial proportion of the company’s balance sheet. If confirmed, investors would have legitimate questions about historical earnings, assets, liabilities, cash flows and disclosures. The critical issue now is evidence. The FIA must establish where the money went, who authorised the transactions, who benefited, whether disclosures were deliberately withheld and whether financial statements were knowingly falsified. Investigation Could Expand Beyond Five Accused The FIA has indicated that the investigation may examine the roles of additional individuals, including other former officers and directors, the recipients of the alleged Rs 2.6 billion advances, parties involved in the acquisition of former subsidiaries, DJM Securities and statutory auditors. The investigation will also reportedly examine related-party transactions involving Unity Feeds. This means the current FIR may represent only the opening stage of a much broader corporate investigation. For Unity Foods shareholders, the next major developments will be the company’s response to the allegations, FIA investigative actions, potential court

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Agree To Deepen Economic And Agricultural Cooperation
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Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Agree To Deepen Economic And Agricultural Cooperation

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Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to strengthen economic and agricultural cooperation, with a Pakistani delegation of agricultural experts set to visit Riyadh soon to advance talks on expanding bilateral trade, investment and agricultural ties. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia should focus on converting their longstanding strategic partnership into stronger economic relations. He made the remarks during a meeting with Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad. The two sides discussed ways to expand Pakistani agricultural exports to Saudi Arabia and improve Pakistan’s agricultural productivity through modern technology, research and development and more efficient water management. Pakistani Agriculture Experts To Visit Riyadh According to a government press release, the upcoming visit by Pakistani agricultural experts will help advance discussions between the two countries and identify opportunities for greater cooperation. Pakistan sees Saudi Arabia as an important market for its agricultural products, while Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in strengthening collaboration in agriculture, water management and food security. The discussions also focused on improving agricultural productivity through technology and research. Better water-use efficiency was highlighted as another area where cooperation could support Pakistan’s agriculture sector. The Saudi minister reaffirmed Riyadh’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan in agriculture, water and food security. He also thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation. Defence Agreement To Support Wider Partnership Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted the recently signed Makkah Joint Defence Agreement involving Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan. He said the agreement had brought the three countries closer and conveyed a message of unity and peace across the region. The prime minister stressed that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, as strategic partners, should now channel their efforts toward increasing trade and investment alongside their existing defence and diplomatic cooperation. The government has increasingly focused on strengthening economic relations with Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas that can generate investment, exports and employment opportunities. Focus On Trade, Investment And Food Security The meeting reflects a broader effort by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to expand their partnership beyond traditional diplomatic and security relations. Agriculture remains an important area of cooperation because Pakistan has significant agricultural production capacity, while Saudi Arabia continues to focus on securing reliable food supplies and improving resource efficiency. Greater cooperation in technology, agricultural research, water management and food security could help Pakistan improve productivity while creating opportunities to increase exports to the Saudi market. The meeting was attended by several federal ministers, including Rana Tanveer Hussain, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Atta Tarar, Jam Kamal Khan, Dr Musadik Malik, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, Dr Syed Tauqir Shah and Bilal Azhar Kiyani. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi and senior government officials also participated.

NBP Reports PKR 32.4 Billion Profit In First Half Of 2026
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NBP Reports PKR 32.4 Billion Profit In First Half Of 2026

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National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) delivered a resilient financial performance during the first half of 2026, reporting a Profit After Tax (PAT) of PKR 32.4 billion despite volatility in interest rates and challenging conditions across the banking sector. The bank’s Profit Before Tax stood at PKR 67.3 billion, while earnings per share reached PKR 15.23 for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Investments Support NBP’s Interest Income NBP’s investment portfolio remained a key contributor to its earnings during the period. Investments grew 15.1% during the first half to reach PKR 5.67 trillion. The bank said its stronger funding mix, supported by growth in low-cost current and savings accounts (CASA), helped reduce its overall cost of funds and cushion pressure from lower asset yields. Gross interest income reached PKR 361.7 billion during 1H2026. Non-mark-up income also improved, increasing 3.8% year-on-year to PKR 27.6 billion. Foreign exchange income rose to PKR 5.4 billion from PKR 3.5 billion, while dividend income increased 30% to PKR 4.1 billion. Strong Deposit Base Supports Liquidity NBP maintained a strong deposit and liquidity position during the first half of the year. Total deposits stood at PKR 4.2 trillion as of June 30. Current deposits accounted for PKR 2.07 trillion, representing 49.2% of total deposits. The bank’s overall CASA base reached PKR 3.53 trillion, lifting the CASA ratio to approximately 85%, compared with 80.7% at the end of 2025. The bank reported a Liquidity Coverage Ratio of 198% and a Net Stable Funding Ratio of 152%, both well above the regulatory minimum of 100%. Islamic Financing Continues To Grow While gross advances declined 2.4% to PKR 1.58 trillion from PKR 1.61 trillion at the end of 2025, NBP attributed the reduction mainly to seasonal factors affecting its Commercial and SME segments. Islamic financing, however, continued to expand strongly. It increased 27% during the first half to reach PKR 312.8 billion. The growth reflects the bank’s continued expansion of its Islamic banking business while conventional advances remained affected by seasonal trends. Expenses Rise With Digital Investment NBP’s operating expenses increased approximately 11% year-on-year to PKR 65.5 billion. According to the bank, the increase was primarily linked to investments in digital capabilities and technology infrastructure. These investments are intended to strengthen operational capacity, resilience and scalability over the longer term. Risk management remained another positive area. Recoveries against non-performing loans and credit loss allowances resulted in a net reversal of PKR 5.3 billion during 1H2026, compared with a charge of PKR 4.8 billion in the same period last year. Specific NPL provision coverage stood at 93% under applicable State Bank of Pakistan regulations. NBP Maintains Strong Capital Position The bank’s total assets increased 10.9% during the first half of 2026, reaching PKR 7.8 trillion compared with PKR 7.07 trillion at the end of December 2025. Despite a significant dividend payout affecting eligible capital, NBP continued to maintain a strong capital position. Risk-weighted assets increased marginally by 1% to PKR 2.11 trillion. The bank’s Total Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 22.12%, while its Tier-1 Capital Adequacy Ratio was 16.79%. The leverage ratio stood at 3.62%, with the bank saying other financial soundness indicators also remained strong. Abdul Wahid Sethi Assumes Acting CEO Charge The Federal Government has assigned Abdul Wahid Sethi, NBP’s SEVP and CFO, the additional acting charge of President and CEO. Sethi will hold the acting position for three months or until a regular President and CEO is appointed, whichever comes earlier. The bank said the new interim leadership is expected to support operational excellence, its transformation agenda and value creation for customers, shareholders and other stakeholders. NBP Expects Credit Demand To Recover Sethi expects the operating environment to improve during the second half of 2026, supported by easing geopolitical tensions, improving business confidence and a gradual recovery in economic activity. The bank expects these developments to encourage a revival in credit demand, particularly within the Commercial and SME segments. With strong liquidity, a sizeable low-cost deposit base, robust capital and disciplined risk management, NBP believes it is well positioned to benefit from an improvement in economic activity. The bank plans to pursue risk-calibrated asset growth and deepen customer relationships, while stronger advances and improving business conditions are expected to provide additional momentum through the remainder of the year.

SPI Inflation Rises 0.05% Weekly As LPG, Diesel And Petrol Prices Increase
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SPI Inflation Rises 0.05% Weekly As LPG, Diesel And Petrol Prices Increase

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Pakistan’s short-term inflation, measured by the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), increased by 0.05% during the week ended August 27, 2026, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The latest SPI inflation data showed mixed price movements for essential commodities. Prices of LPG, diesel, electricity, petrol and several food items increased during the week, while significant declines were recorded in tomatoes, chicken, onions and bananas. On a year-on-year basis, the SPI increased by 9.04%, indicating continued pressure on household budgets despite weekly price movements remaining relatively limited. LPG, Diesel And Petrol Prices Rise The largest weekly increase was recorded in the price of LPG, which rose by 3.46%. Diesel prices increased by 2.44%, while electricity charges for the first quarter rose by 2.06%. Petrol prices increased by 1.71% during the week. Other commodities that became more expensive included pulse gram, wheat flour, eggs, mustard oil, pulse masoor, prepared tea, pulse mash and beef. Pulse gram recorded a weekly increase of 0.88%, while wheat flour rose by 0.39%. Egg prices increased by 0.34%, and mustard oil and pulse masoor prices went up by 0.30% each. Tomato Prices Fall 18.65% Several food items recorded notable price declines during the week. Tomato prices registered the biggest decrease, falling by 18.65%. Chicken prices dropped by 4.41%, followed by onions at 2.87% and bananas at 2.80%. Garlic prices declined by 1.02%, while IRRI-6/9 rice fell by 0.42%. Basmati broken rice prices decreased by 0.41%, while potatoes became 0.39% cheaper. Out of the 51 items monitored by the PBS, prices of 20 items increased, 11 decreased and 20 remained unchanged during the week. Annual Inflation Shows Sharp Price Increases The annual SPI data showed considerably larger price increases in several essential commodities. Onions recorded the highest year-on-year increase at 125.86%, followed by LPG at 55.66% and wheat flour at 45.28%. Tomato prices were 36.69% higher than a year earlier, while diesel increased by 36.33%. Petrol prices rose by 29.84% year-on-year, while electricity charges for the first quarter increased by 25.24%. Other significant annual increases were recorded in chilli powder, mutton, bananas, beef and plain bread. However, several commodities became cheaper compared with the same period last year. Potato prices declined by 31.33%, chicken by 23.87%, sugar by 19.33% and eggs by 17.97%. Fertiliser And Cement Prices The average price of Sona Urea remained unchanged at Rs4,684 per 50kg bag during the week. However, its price was 6.81% higher compared with the same period last year. Meanwhile, the average price of cement stood at Rs1,549 per 50kg bag, showing a weekly decline of 0.59%. Despite the recent decrease, cement remained 9.88% more expensive than a year earlier. The SPI tracks prices of 51 essential commodities across 50 markets in 17 cities. The weekly indicator provides policymakers with a near-real-time assessment of price movements and short-term inflationary pressures across the country.

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