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Multan Sultans Sale Shakes Pakistan Cricket With a Rs2.45 Billion Deal
Business

Multan Sultans Sale Shakes Pakistan Cricket With a Rs2.45 Billion Deal

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The Multan Sultans sale has rewritten the business playbook of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), sending a strong signal to investors, brands, and cricket fans alike. In a landmark auction held in Lahore ahead of PSL’s 11th edition, Walee Technologies acquired the Multan Sultans franchise for a record-breaking Rs2.45 billion, making it the most expensive team sale in PSL history. What makes this deal even more compelling is that the winning bid secures ownership for the next 10 years, reflecting long-term confidence in the commercial future of Pakistan cricket. Why the Multan Sultans Sale Matters for PSL’s Business Ecosystem The Multan Sultans sale is not just about a team changing hands it represents a strategic turning point for PSL’s valuation model. According to auction officials, the base price was set at Rs1.82 billion, drawing inspiration from the earlier sale of the Sialkot franchise at Rs1.85 billion. However, intense bidding momentum pushed the final price far beyond expectations. In practical terms, this means PSL franchises are no longer viewed as short-term sponsorship vehicles. Instead, they are now being positioned as long-term sports media assets, capable of generating value through broadcasting rights, digital monetization, brand partnerships, and fan engagement. A Surprise Twist: From Multan to Rawalpindi? Adding intrigue to the Multan Sultans sale, Walee Technologies CEO Ahsan Tahir announced a potential rebranding of the franchise to Rawalpindi, a move that instantly sparked debate across cricketing circles. Speaking at the ceremony, Tahir teased the crowd with a bold declaration: “Are you ready for a surprise? We will be going for Rawalpindi!” This possible shift underscores a crucial business reality brand geography matters. Rawalpindi, with its larger urban footprint and commercial appeal, could offer expanded sponsorship and fan-base opportunities, especially in digital-first markets. PCB’s Perspective on the Multan Sultans Brand PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi acknowledged the emotional and commercial weight of the Multan Sultans sale. While expressing personal attachment to the franchise, he made it clear that financial logic must prevail. He noted that it would be unreasonable to expect a buyer investing Rs2.45 billion to retain a legacy name without flexibility. Naqvi also credited former PCB Chairman Najam Sethi, who conceptualized the franchise in 2017, calling the sale “the culmination of a dream.” From a governance standpoint, this approach signals greater market freedom for franchise owners, a move likely to attract even larger investors in future PSL cycles. Who Is Walee Technologies and Why This Deal Fits Their Strategy Walee Technologies is a global player across media, finance, and technology, already familiar with the PSL ecosystem through its earlier acquisition of PSL livestreaming rights. The Multan Sultans sale aligns perfectly with the company’s digital-first vision, where sports content, data, and fan engagement converge. In business terms, the acquisition strengthens Walee’s vertical integration combining content ownership, distribution, and monetization under one umbrella. From Championship Glory to Ownership Reset The Multan Sultans franchise was launched in 2017 and competed in eight consecutive PSL seasons, clinching the championship title in 2021. However, uncertainty emerged last year when the PCB chose not to renew the ownership agreement with Ali Khan Tareen, temporarily taking control of the team. The Multan Sultans sale now brings closure to that chapter, replacing uncertainty with capital strength and strategic clarity. What the Multan Sultans Sale Signals for Pakistan Cricket In explanatory terms, this record deal highlights three major trends: First, PSL franchise valuations are rising rapidly, reflecting stronger commercial fundamentals. Second, corporate and tech-driven investors are entering sports ownership, bringing innovation and scalability.Third, the PCB is increasingly willing to let market forces shape the league’s future. As Najam Sethi aptly described it, this is not just a PSL moment it could be a turning point for Pakistan cricket’s global business narrative.

Pakistan's Central Bank Chief Defends High Interest Rates Citing Global and Domestic Risks
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Pakistan’s Central Bank Chief Defends High Interest Rates Citing Global and Domestic Risks

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SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad reaffirmed the need for a tight monetary policy in a speech on February 9, 2026, at the AlUla Conference. Read more: https://theboardroompk.com/symmetry-group-approves-rs1-25bn-investment-plan-for-growth-and-acquisitions/ Despite falling inflation, the central bank holds the policy rate at 10.5%, prioritizing proactive measures to safeguard against future risks. He described high rates as necessary to handle anticipated global and domestic factors that might affect price levels. Preemptive Actions Key to Central Banking Role Ahmad explained that central banks must act timely and effectively to meet core goals. He called preemptive decisions the toughest part of the job, especially when high real interest rates draw criticism for slowing business and growth. Many fail to see looming threats, but the bank retains elevated rates to counter potential inflation drivers from international events and local pressures. Recent months show inflation below the 5-7% target, yet vigilance remains critical. Market Confidence in SBP’s Inflation Outlook The governor highlighted strong credibility, as analysts widely expect inflation to stay in the 5-7% range through this year and next. This consensus reflects trust in SBP’s guidance and policies. While acknowledging stakeholder concerns over borrowing costs, Ahmad emphasized readiness for unforeseen challenges. The stance supports macroeconomic stability over the next two years, avoiding aggressive easing that could undermine gains. Coordination with fiscal measures continues to balance growth aspirations with prudent risk management.

Meezan Bank Posts Rs89 Billion Profit in 2025; Gives Rs 28 Per Share Dividend
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Meezan Bank Posts Rs89 Billion Profit in 2025; Gives Rs 28 Per Share Dividend

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Meezan Bank reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 89 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025, delivering a strong Return on Equity of 34%. This performance reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to creating sustainable value for its shareholders. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/water-supply-suspension-halts-industrial-production-in-karachi/ Basic Earnings Per Share (EPS) stood at Rs. 49.54, compared to Rs. 56.62 in 2024. The Board of Directors has approved a final cash dividend of Rs. 7 per share (70%), bringing the total cash dividend for 2025 to Rs. 28 per share (280%), following the interim dividend of Rs. 21 per share (210%) paid during the first nine months of the year. Meezan Bank’s financial position remains robust, with a Capital Adequacy Ratio of 19.2%, well above the regulatory requirement of 11.5%. The Bank’s market capitalization has surpassed USD 3.2 billion, reinforcing its position as one of Pakistan’s most valuable companies. For the year ended 2025, Meezan Bank reported a net spread of Rs. 252.5 billion, compared to Rs. 287.0 billion in the previous year, primarily reflecting the impact of a lower policy rate environment. In contrast, the Bank’s non-funded income recorded strong growth of 13% year-on-year, rising to Rs. 32.6 billion from Rs. 28.9 billion in 2024, highlighting the diversification and resilience of its revenue streams. At year-end, Meezan Bank’s total deposits surpassed a significant milestone, reaching Rs. 3.30 trillion, representing a 28% increase from Rs. 2.58 trillion at the close of 2024. In addition, the Bank’s Roshan Digital Account (RDA) programme recorded cumulative inflows of USD 3.4 billion since inception, capturing 29% of total industry inflows. This achievement further reinforces Meezan Bank’s position as the preferred banking partner for overseas Pakistanis. As at year-end 2025, Meezan Bank’s gross financings stood at Rs. 1.69 trillion. The Bank maintained a strong asset quality profile, with a non-performing financing (NPF) ratio of 1.8%, among the lowest in the industry. Reflecting its prudent risk management practices, the non-performing financing coverage ratio remained robust at 146%. During the year, Meezan Bank also expanded its investment portfolio to Rs. 2.60 trillion, representing a significant growth of 39% compared to the end of 2024.

APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance Merger Moves Into Spotlight
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APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance Merger Moves Into Spotlight

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The APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance merger has officially entered Pakistan’s financial conversation after the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) granted approval for due diligence an early but meaningful step toward possible consolidation in the country’s growing microfinance sector. In a letter dated February 6, 2026, the central bank authorized Mobilink Microfinance Bank Limited to initiate a detailed due diligence review of APNA Microfinance Bank Limited (PSX: AMBL). While not a final merger approval, the move has ignited industry speculation about what could become one of the most notable microfinance combinations in recent years. Why the APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance Merger Matters Pakistan’s microfinance industry has been undergoing rapid transformation amid digital banking expansion, rising competition, and regulatory tightening. The APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance merger, if materialized, could reshape market dynamics by combining scale, technology, and outreach. According to SBP’s approval, Mobilink Microfinance Bank is permitted to conduct due diligence strictly in line with applicable laws, rules, and regulatory frameworks. This phase allows Mobilink to examine APNA’s financial health, asset quality, governance structure, and operational risks before deciding whether to proceed. Importantly, the SBP emphasized that this approval does not constitute consent for a merger or acquisition, reinforcing that regulatory oversight remains firm at every stage. Regulatory Framework Behind the Potential Merger If due diligence and negotiations conclude successfully, the proposed transaction would take place under Section 48 of the Banking Companies Ordinance, 1962, which governs bank mergers and amalgamations in Pakistan. SBP has outlined several non-negotiable conditions: Rather than using a table, these conditions can be explained clearly. First, all members of the due diligence team must sign strict confidentiality undertakings, with copies submitted directly to the central bank. Second, the due diligence approval is time-bound, valid for two months, expiring around April 6, 2026. Third, depositors’ funds from neither APNA nor Mobilink may be used at any stage of the proposed transaction. Additionally, SBP has stated that any future merger request will be assessed independently, including a satisfactory funding plan. The regulator also reserves the right to impose additional conditions as it sees fit. What This Means for APNA and Mobilink From a corporate perspective, the APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance merger remains firmly at a preliminary stage. In its official disclosure, APNA confirmed that the development has no immediate impact on its financial position or day-to-day operations. However, market observers view the approval as a strategic signal. Mobilink Microfinance Bank already one of the country’s largest digital microfinance players could significantly expand its footprint by integrating APNA’s network, customers, and regional strengths. For APNA, the process offers a potential pathway to scale, stability, and capital optimization at a time when microfinance institutions are facing margin pressure and rising compliance costs. Bigger Picture: Consolidation in Pakistan’s Microfinance Sector The APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance merger comes amid a broader trend of consolidation across Pakistan’s banking and non-banking financial sectors. Regulators have increasingly encouraged stronger balance sheets, improved governance, and sustainable growth models especially in financial inclusion-driven institutions. While the outcome remains uncertain, the SBP’s decision to allow due diligence suggests that regulatory doors are open, provided transactions are transparent, well-funded, and depositor-safe. What Happens Next? Over the next two months, Mobilink’s due diligence findings will determine whether negotiations progress toward a formal merger proposal. Only after SBP reviews a complete transaction structure including funding sources could final approval even be considered. Until then, the APNA Microfinance Bank Mobilink Microfinance merger remains a developing story one that could signal the next phase of evolution for Pakistan’s microfinance landscape.

High Taxes at 62-65%: Arif Habib Urges Govt to Talk to IMF for Reductions
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High Taxes at 62-65%: Arif Habib Urges Govt to Talk to IMF for Reductions

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Prominent Pakistani businessman Arif Habib has indicated that the government is poised to negotiate with the IMF for reductions in business taxation rates. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-and-iran-target-enhanced-bilateral-cooperation-amid-regional-talks/ The objective is to alleviate the heavy tax load that discourages investment and hampers economic expansion. Burden of Layered Taxes on Businesses Habib pointed out that businesses face an effective tax rate of 62-65% when combining corporate tax at 29%, super tax, inter-corporate dividend tax, dividend tax, and Section 7E on property income. These multiple impositions, he argued, are a major deterrent to both domestic and foreign investors, contributing to persistently low FDI levels in the economy. Specific Reduction Proposals In discussions with high-level officials, including the prime minister and FBR chairman, Habib learned of plans to approach the IMF for relief. He suggested targeted changes: dropping corporate tax to 27%, eliminating inter-corporate dividend tax, abolishing certain provisions like Section 73, and lowering GST from 18% to 15%. He also called for a single-digit policy rate and stronger security to restore investor trust. Leveraging IMF Program Flexibility Under the ongoing $7 billion EFF, Pakistan must align fiscal policies with IMF guidelines. Recent overachievement on primary surplus targets offers potential room to propose a lower benchmark, generating fiscal space to accommodate tax relief without derailing the program. This approach seeks to foster growth while honoring international obligations. Potential Economic Benefits Lower taxes could encourage business expansion, improve competitiveness, and attract capital inflows critical for long-term stability. Habib shared these insights at the Karachi Literature Festival, underscoring the link between institutional reforms and economic performance.

Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review: A Calm Surface Hiding Powerful Undercurrents
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Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review: A Calm Surface Hiding Powerful Undercurrents

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange weekly review for the first week of February 2026 tells a story that goes far beyond a near-unchanged index level. While the KSE-100 Index slipped just 44.91 points to close at 184,129.58, the market was anything but quiet beneath the surface. Investor nerves, macroeconomic signals, and sector-specific moves created a week defined by caution rather than conviction. At first glance, the numbers suggest stability. But a closer look reveals why traders chose patience over aggression. Why the Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review Shows Investor Caution Throughout the week, the PSX remained range-bound as concerns grew over a potential super tax on high-earning corporates. This uncertainty discouraged risk-taking, especially in heavyweight sectors. At the same time, global cues particularly developments surrounding a possible US-India trade deal kept investors on alert. Adding to the cautious mood was a sharp rise in government T-bill yields, which made fixed-income instruments more attractive relative to equities. As a result, trading activity stayed selective, with investors rotating into defensive and high-quality names rather than broad-based buying. Market Capitalization Trends in This Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review In rupee terms, total market capitalization edged down slightly to Rs5.43 trillion, reflecting a marginal weekly erosion of just Rs4.42 billion. This minimal change confirms that the market largely moved sideways rather than undergoing any meaningful correction. In dollar terms, capitalization slipped to $19.43 billion, underscoring how currency stability helped limit valuation swings. With USD-adjusted returns nearly flat, foreign investors saw little incentive to materially increase exposure during the week. Macroeconomic Signals Shaping the Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review Several key economic developments shaped market sentiment. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) raised Rs823 billion in its latest Market Treasury Bill auction, with cut-off yields rising across all tenors. Investor preference leaned heavily toward the 12-month paper, highlighting expectations of tighter liquidity conditions. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s trade deficit narrowed sharply by 28.5% month-on-month, supported by record exports exceeding $3 billion and falling imports. While this was an encouraging short-term signal, the cumulative FY26 trade deficit widened year-on-year, reminding investors that structural external pressures remain unresolved. Inflation data added another layer of complexity. CPI inflation ticked up to 5.8%, driven mainly by rural price increases, while wholesale inflation stayed muted. This mixed inflation picture reinforced expectations that monetary policy may remain cautious rather than aggressively accommodative. Sector Performance Highlights in the Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review Sector-wise, the market delivered a classic tug-of-war. Commercial banks emerged as the strongest pillar of support, contributing heavily to index stability amid expectations of sustained profitability in a higher-yield environment. On the flip side, Oil & Gas Exploration, Fertilizer, and Cement sectors dragged the index lower. Weak global energy prices, margin pressures, and tax-related uncertainty weighed heavily on these capital-intensive sectors. Technology, automobiles, and power generation stocks provided selective upside, reflecting investor appetite for growth stories with clearer earnings visibility. Stock Movers That Defined This Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review Among individual stocks, ENGRO Holdings stood out as the single largest positive contributor, signaling continued confidence in diversified conglomerates. Major banks such as UBL and Meezan Bank also attracted strong buying interest, reinforcing the sector’s leadership role. Conversely, Pakistan Petroleum Limited and Fauji Fertilizer Company emerged as major laggards, reflecting broader weakness across energy and fertilizer plays. Heavyweight selling in these names kept the index from breaking higher despite gains elsewhere. Foreign and Local Investor Activity in the Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review Foreign investors turned net sellers, with outflows of $11.44 million, led primarily by foreign corporates. However, this selling pressure was fully absorbed by local institutional investors, particularly mutual funds and companies, which stepped in as net buyers. This balance between foreign caution and local confidence prevented sharper downside moves and kept the PSX in consolidation mode. What This Pakistan Stock Exchange Weekly Review Signals Going Forward The takeaway from this Pakistan Stock Exchange weekly review is clear: the PSX is not lacking direction it is waiting for clarity. With fiscal policy risks, external obligations, and global developments still unfolding, investors appear content to stay selective rather than speculative. For now, stability is the theme. But beneath the calm, powerful macro and policy signals are quietly setting the stage for the market’s next decisive move.

Gold Price in Pakistan Slides Sharply: Is This a Golden Buying Opportunity or a Warning Signal?
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Gold Price in Pakistan Slides Sharply: Is This a Golden Buying Opportunity or a Warning Signal?

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The gold price in Pakistan witnessed a dramatic fall on Friday, triggering intense debate among investors, jewelers, and everyday buyers alike. After weeks of bullish momentum, the sudden drop has left many asking a critical question: Is this a temporary correction or the start of a deeper shift in the precious metals market? According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewelers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), 24-karat gold plunged by Rs21,400 per tola, settling at Rs507,762. This sharp correction has disrupted market sentiment and reopened conversations about timing, inflation hedging, and global price volatility. Gold price in Pakistan today: What changed overnight? The fall wasn’t limited to one category. Across purity levels, gold prices softened significantly: • 24-karat gold per 10 grams dropped by Rs18,347, reaching Rs435,324• 22-karat gold per 10 grams declined to Rs399,061 In simple terms, buyers who were priced out just days ago suddenly find gold more accessible while those who bought near recent highs are feeling the pinch. When looking at recent performance, the gold price in Pakistan had surged strongly over the past month. Despite today’s drop, gold remains Rs41,000 higher month-on-month, showing that long-term momentum hasn’t fully disappeared. Since the start of the fiscal year, gold has still gained over Rs157,000 per tola, underlining its role as a preferred hedge against economic uncertainty. Silver prices follow gold’s lead in Pakistan The precious metals sell-off wasn’t limited to gold. Silver prices in Pakistan also saw a sharp correction: • 24-karat silver per tola fell by Rs1,430 to Rs7,825• Silver per 10 grams declined by Rs1,226, now priced at Rs6,708 Although silver’s month-on-month performance remains mixed, the metal has still posted a positive trend on a fiscal year basis suggesting speculative interest remains intact. Gold price in Pakistan vs global markets: A surprising divergence Interestingly, while domestic prices fell, global gold markets moved in the opposite direction. International spot gold traded near $4,870 per ounce, gaining $168.7 (3.59%) in a single session. This divergence highlights a key factor influencing the gold price in Pakistan: currency dynamics and local market adjustments. A stronger dollar globally and shifts in international investor positioning can often cause short-term disconnects between local and global prices creating both risks and opportunities. Why the gold price in Pakistan matters more than ever Gold in Pakistan isn’t just a luxury it’s a financial instrument, a store of value, and a cultural asset. From weddings to wealth preservation, price movements directly affect household decisions and business strategies. This sudden drop could: • Encourage retail buying ahead of wedding season• Trigger profit-taking by short-term investors• Push jewelers to adjust pricing strategies rapidly• Renew interest among investors waiting for a correction Yet, volatility remains the key theme. With global economic uncertainty, fluctuating interest rate expectations, and geopolitical risks still in play, the gold price in Pakistan is likely to remain highly sensitive in the coming weeks. Is this the right time to buy gold in Pakistan? That depends on perspective. • Short-term traders may remain cautious due to volatility• Long-term investors could see this dip as a strategic entry point• Consumers may find temporary relief in jewelry prices What’s clear is that gold continues to dominate financial conversations both locally and globally. Final Thoughts The latest drop in the gold price in Pakistan has injected fresh uncertainty into the market, but it has also reignited opportunity. Whether this move turns into a deeper correction or a brief pause before another rally will depend on global cues, currency movements, and investor sentiment. One thing is certain: gold is once again commanding attention and Pakistan is right at the center of the story.

Dun & Bradstreet Teams Up with Midas Safety to Boost Data-Driven Finance in Pakistan
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Dun & Bradstreet Teams Up with Midas Safety to Boost Data-Driven Finance in Pakistan

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KARACHI: Dun & Bradstreet has partnered with Midas Safety through the deployment of D&B Finance Analytics. The partnership will enable Midas Safety to strengthen its financial decision-making capabilities through enhanced data-driven insights. The signing ceremony was held recently at the Dun and Bradstreet Pakistan Office, where representatives from both organizations came together to formalize the collaboration. The ceremony was attended by Khawaja Khurram, General Manager IT, Hasan Vohra, Group Commercial Finance Manager, and Kashan Mansoori CFO – from Midas Safety Pakistan. The collaboration reflects the growing demand among enterprises for strong analytics that give better visibility into finances and help teams make better decisions. D&B Finance Analytics solution helps corporate finance teams manage credit risk, streamline financial analysis, and access holistic company insights powered by Dun & Bradstreet’s global commercial database. With strong data intelligence at its core, the solution will equip Midas Safety to strengthen its finance initiatives and support its ongoing focus on operational efficiency and sustainable business growth. While talking about the collaboration, Zubair Qureshi, CBO Dun and Bradstreet Pakistan said, “We’re pleased to collaborate with Midas Safety as they adopt D&B Financial Analytics platform to strengthen its partner evaluation framework. This reflects how leading Pakistani enterprises are adopting global best practices to make smarter and sustainable partnership decisions”. Dun & Bradstreet is a global provider of business data and analytics. The company maintains one of the world’s largest commercial databases and provides data intelligence tools to support operations, compliance, and growth activities. More than 90% of the Fortune 600+ and millions of companies worldwide rely on Dun & Bradstreet data in support of their business decisions.

Standard Chartered Connects Pakistani SMEs to Global Markets Through Tailored Foreign Exchange Solutions
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Standard Chartered Connects Pakistani SMEs to Global Markets Through Tailored Foreign Exchange Solutions

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Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan organized a dedicated client event in Islamabad on February 4, 2026, to showcase foreign exchange (FX) solutions designed specifically for the SME sector. The gathering highlighted ways to facilitate smoother international trade and expansion for local businesses. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/wb-president-ajay-banga-pakistan-must-generate-30-million-jobs-to-secure-future/ SMEs as Economic Backbone Representing over 70% of non-agri jobs and a major export driver, SMEs are central to Pakistan’s growth story. Discussions centered on overcoming challenges in global dealings, with FX tools positioned as key enablers for efficient and confident market entry. Global Network and Specialized Services Leveraging presence in more than 53 countries, the bank delivers comprehensive support including in-depth market intelligence, seamless end-to-end FX processing, attractive pricing, and dedicated global trade guidance. This infrastructure helps reduce costs and complexities associated with cross-border payments and operations. Building Confidence and Partnerships Saadya Riaz, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking, remarked: “SMEs are a vital engine of Pakistan’s economy, driving growth and employment. At Standard Chartered, we are committed to supporting their ambitions by building long-term partnerships and by delivering tailored solutions, insights, and global expertise that will enable them to scale their businesses with confidence.” The event underscores Standard Chartered’s ongoing efforts to drive innovation and resilience in priority sectors. Through such engagements, the bank aims to equip SMEs with the tools needed to thrive internationally, contributing to broader economic development and export enhancement in Pakistan.

The Boardroom PK delivers trusted business news, analysis, and insights from Pakistan and beyond, keeping readers informed, inspired, and ahead in the evolving world of business and leadership.

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