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Jazz CEO Urges Global Investors to 'Invest NOW' at Austria Business Forum
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Jazz CEO Urges Global Investors to ‘Invest NOW’ at Austria Business Forum

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Aamir Ibrahim Highlights Pakistan’s Digital Growth Story at Austria Business Forum  Pakistan’s evolving investment narrative and digital transformation agenda were brought into focus during a high-level discussion led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Austria Business Forum, where Pakistani and Austrian leadership engaged international investors on emerging opportunities under the newly launched “Invest in Pakistan NOW!” initiative.  Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/trump-imposes-10-global-tariff-after-supreme-court-strikes-down-emergency-duties/ Speaking at the forum, Aamir Ibrahim, Member of the Group Executive Committee at VEON and Chief Executive Officer of JazzWorld, emphasized that Pakistan’s growth trajectory is increasingly defined by scale, resilience, and the rise of national digital platforms. “When scale meets innovation, technology stops being just an enabler and becomes a true driver of national growth,” he said.  Addressing policymakers, global partners, and industry leaders, Ibrahim described Pakistan’s transformation as one already underway rather than a future projection. He noted that leaders from multiple sectors were contributing to a broader shift toward a digitally enabled economy, where connectivity serves as the foundation for wider value creation.  At the center of this shift, he highlighted, is Pakistan’s youth. With nearly two-thirds of the population under the age of 30, the country possesses one of the largest young workforces in the region. TIncreasingly digitally skilled and entrepreneurial, this digitally skilled and entrepreneurial demographic is emerging as a catalyst for innovation, productivity, and technology-led growth across industries.  Representing JazzWorld, which serves over 100 million users through its digital platforms, Ibrahim outlined how Pakistan’s digital ecosystem is expanding beyond traditional telecommunications. What began as connectivity infrastructure has evolved into digital banking and fintech services, and is now extending into data centers, software exports, and artificial intelligence-driven solutions.  He underscored that connectivity is no longer the end goal, but a foundational layer enabling financial inclusion, digital payments, export-oriented services, and innovation at scale. The convergence of scale and technological capability, he noted, is reshaping how Pakistan participates in the global economy.  Ibrahim also pointed to policy direction at the highest level, stating that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, Pakistan is recalibrating its global engagement model. The focus is expanding beyond conventional trade toward deeper technology partnerships anchored in shared innovation and long-term collaboration in emerging sectors.  Technology, he said, is increasingly acting as a bridge between Pakistan and global markets. From fintech-led inclusion to artificial intelligence applications and export-focused software development, the country is positioning itself as a credible digital partner. These developments reflect a broader ecosystem in formation—combining private-sector dynamism with public-sector vision. The session reflected a tone of openness and engagement, with dialogue emphasized as a critical building block for sustainable partnerships. Ibrahim signaled continued openness to collaboration, inviting investors and global partners to engage directly with Pakistan’s growing digital platforms and talent base.  The discussion reinforced a central message: Pakistan is actively shaping its place in the global digital economy, leveraging scale, demographic strength, and technological ambition to build industries for the future.

Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan is once again in the spotlight as Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) announces a promising new find at the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) well in the Nashpa Block. Situated in the resource-rich Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this development signals a potential step forward in addressing the country’s persistent energy deficit. While not classified as a mega discovery, the find has generated considerable interest across the energy sector due to its commercial viability and strategic location. Details of the Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan at Nashpa Block The Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan story unfolds with encouraging production test results. OGDC confirmed that the well produced both crude oil and natural gas from the Lumshiwal formation during testing. Rather than raw figures alone, the results paint a clear picture of moderate yet commercially feasible output. The well is currently producing over two hundred barrels of oil per day alongside more than one million standard cubic feet of gas daily. The pressure and flow conditions suggest stable extraction potential, reinforcing confidence in the site’s productivity. The discovery is part of a joint venture where OGDC holds a dominant stake, working alongside Pakistan Petroleum Limited and Government Holdings (Private) Limited. This collaboration highlights the importance of public-sector partnerships in driving Pakistan’s upstream exploration efforts. Why This Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan Matters This Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan may not dramatically transform the energy landscape overnight, but it holds meaningful implications for the country’s long-term strategy. Pakistan has long struggled with a widening gap between energy demand and domestic supply. Discoveries like Nashpa contribute incremental volumes that reduce reliance on costly imports. Over time, even modest additions can significantly stabilize supply chains and improve economic resilience. The Nashpa Block itself has proven to be a consistent performer. The latest well adds another layer of confidence in the region’s hydrocarbon potential, signaling that further exploration could unlock additional reserves. Multi-Zone Potential Strengthens Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan Outlook One of the most intriguing aspects of this Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan is the multi-layered nature of the reservoir system. The Baragzai X-01 well was drilled deep over 5,000 meters intersecting several hydrocarbon-bearing formations. Earlier tests had already indicated the presence of oil and gas in deeper formations such as Kingriali, Datta, and Samana Suk. The addition of Lumshiwal and Hangu formations confirms a stacked petroleum system, meaning multiple productive layers exist within the same well. This significantly enhances the economic viability of the discovery. Instead of relying on a single producing zone, operators can tap into multiple layers, extending the life and output of the well. Exploration Momentum and Future Prospects Spudded at the end of 2024, the Baragzai X-01 well reflects OGDC’s continued commitment to expanding Pakistan’s domestic energy base. The company has been actively investing in exploration to counter declining reserves and rising demand. The success of this well is likely to encourage further drilling in the Nashpa Block and surrounding regions. With each discovery, the geological understanding of the basin improves, reducing exploration risk and attracting more investment into the sector. A Small Discovery with Big Implications In the broader narrative of Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan, this find represents a steady, strategic gain rather than a dramatic breakthrough. Yet, such developments are crucial building blocks in achieving energy independence. By adding new reserves and confirming multi-zone productivity, OGDC has reinforced confidence in Pakistan’s untapped hydrocarbon potential. As exploration continues, similar discoveries could collectively reshape the country’s energy outlook.
Business

Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan: OGDC Strikes New Reserves in Nashpa Block

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Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan is once again in the spotlight as Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) announces a promising new find at the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) well in the Nashpa Block. Situated in the resource-rich Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this development signals a potential step forward in addressing the country’s persistent energy deficit. While not classified as a mega discovery, the find has generated considerable interest across the energy sector due to its commercial viability and strategic location. Details of the Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan at Nashpa Block The Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan story unfolds with encouraging production test results. OGDC confirmed that the well produced both crude oil and natural gas from the Lumshiwal formation during testing. Rather than raw figures alone, the results paint a clear picture of moderate yet commercially feasible output. The well is currently producing over two hundred barrels of oil per day alongside more than one million standard cubic feet of gas daily. The pressure and flow conditions suggest stable extraction potential, reinforcing confidence in the site’s productivity. The discovery is part of a joint venture where OGDC holds a dominant stake, working alongside Pakistan Petroleum Limited and Government Holdings (Private) Limited. This collaboration highlights the importance of public-sector partnerships in driving Pakistan’s upstream exploration efforts. Why This Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan Matters This Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan may not dramatically transform the energy landscape overnight, but it holds meaningful implications for the country’s long-term strategy. Pakistan has long struggled with a widening gap between energy demand and domestic supply. Discoveries like Nashpa contribute incremental volumes that reduce reliance on costly imports. Over time, even modest additions can significantly stabilize supply chains and improve economic resilience. The Nashpa Block itself has proven to be a consistent performer. The latest well adds another layer of confidence in the region’s hydrocarbon potential, signaling that further exploration could unlock additional reserves. Multi-Zone Potential Strengthens Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan Outlook One of the most intriguing aspects of this Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan is the multi-layered nature of the reservoir system. The Baragzai X-01 well was drilled deep over 5,000 meters intersecting several hydrocarbon-bearing formations. Earlier tests had already indicated the presence of oil and gas in deeper formations such as Kingriali, Datta, and Samana Suk. The addition of Lumshiwal and Hangu formations confirms a stacked petroleum system, meaning multiple productive layers exist within the same well. This significantly enhances the economic viability of the discovery. Instead of relying on a single producing zone, operators can tap into multiple layers, extending the life and output of the well. Exploration Momentum and Future Prospects Spudded at the end of 2024, the Baragzai X-01 well reflects OGDC’s continued commitment to expanding Pakistan’s domestic energy base. The company has been actively investing in exploration to counter declining reserves and rising demand. The success of this well is likely to encourage further drilling in the Nashpa Block and surrounding regions. With each discovery, the geological understanding of the basin improves, reducing exploration risk and attracting more investment into the sector. A Small Discovery with Big Implications In the broader narrative of Oil and Gas Discovery Pakistan, this find represents a steady, strategic gain rather than a dramatic breakthrough. Yet, such developments are crucial building blocks in achieving energy independence. By adding new reserves and confirming multi-zone productivity, OGDC has reinforced confidence in Pakistan’s untapped hydrocarbon potential. As exploration continues, similar discoveries could collectively reshape the country’s energy outlook.

KSE-100 Index Rebound: A Stunning Comeback That Caught Investors Off Guard
Business

KSE-100 Index Rebound: A Stunning Comeback That Caught Investors Off Guard

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The KSE-100 Index Rebound unfolded dramatically on Friday, turning early market jitters into a powerful rally that reignited investor confidence at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). After days of turbulence, investors rushed in at market open to grab blue-chip stocks at what many saw as discounted valuations. The result? A rollercoaster trading session that kept traders glued to their screens. The benchmark index surged to an intraday high of 174,148 points before profit-taking pulled it down to 169,592 points. By closing bell, however, the market had staged a firm recovery, settling at 173,169 points up 999 points or 0.58 percent. Total trading volume reached 245 million shares, signaling renewed participation despite global uncertainty. What Triggered the KSE-100 Index Rebound? The KSE-100 Index Rebound wasn’t driven by domestic factors alone. Global developments added fuel to the market’s volatility. Oil prices jumped sharply amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. US President Donald Trump warned that Tehran had only 10 to 15 days to reach a nuclear deal, while Washington reportedly deployed its largest military buildup in the Middle East since 2003. Reports of a potential limited strike kept global investors on edge and energy-linked stocks highly active. For Pakistan’s market, higher oil prices often create a dual impact: boosting exploration companies while raising concerns over import costs. This push-and-pull dynamic was clearly visible during Friday’s session. Sector Winners and Losers in the KSE-100 Index Rebound The strength of the KSE-100 Index Rebound was uneven across sectors, reflecting selective investor optimism. The Oil & Gas Exploration sector provided the biggest boost, contributing over 333 index points. Cement followed closely, adding nearly 191 points as investors bet on infrastructure and construction momentum. Technology, Commercial Banks, and Pharmaceuticals also supported the rally. Major companies that lifted the index included OGDC, MLCF, PPL, SYS, and FFC — collectively adding significant upward momentum. However, not all sectors participated in the rebound. Automobile Assemblers, Insurance, Chemicals, and Leather stocks faced pressure, highlighting lingering caution in consumer and cyclical segments. Market Breadth: A Mixed Picture Beneath the Rally Out of 100 index companies, 58 closed in positive territory, 40 declined, and 2 remained unchanged. In the broader market, the All-Share Index gained 476 points to close above 103,952. Yet overall activity cooled compared to the previous session. Total market volume fell to 537 million shares from over 905 million earlier, while traded value declined to Rs23.79 billion a drop of nearly Rs24 billion. Among the most actively traded stocks were K-Electric (over 73 million shares traded), WorldCall Telecom, Bank of Punjab, and Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTC). The heavy volumes in power and telecom stocks suggest retail investors remain highly engaged. Fiscal Year Performance: A Bigger Picture The KSE-100 Index Rebound is not an isolated event. During the current fiscal year, the benchmark has surged by 47,542 points an impressive 37.84 percent gain. However, calendar year growth has been more modest at 1.42 percent so far. This divergence highlights how quickly sentiment can shift depending on macroeconomic developments, political signals, and global risk factors. What Should Investors Watch Next? The sustainability of this KSE-100 Index Rebound will largely depend on global oil trends, geopolitical developments, and domestic economic policy direction. If tensions ease and oil stabilizes, Pakistan’s equity market could see further upside. But if geopolitical risks intensify, volatility may return just as swiftly. For now, one thing is clear: Friday’s session proved that when opportunity knocks, investors at the Pakistan Stock Exchange respond fast and decisively.

SPAC Pakistan PSX: Frist-Ever IPO A Landmark Moment for Investors
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SPAC Pakistan PSX: Frist-Ever IPO A Landmark Moment for Investors

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SPAC Pakistan PSX is no longer just a concept it’s becoming reality. In a groundbreaking development, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has invited public feedback on the draft prospectus of LSE SPAC-I Limited, marking the country’s first-ever Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC). Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/imf-pakistan-visit-2026-signals-a-crucial-economic-checkpoint/ This move signals a bold shift in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem, opening doors to modern investment vehicles that have already transformed global markets. But what makes this IPO especially intriguing is not just its structure it’s the strategic ambition behind it. What Is Driving the SPAC Pakistan PSX Momentum? The emergence of SPAC Pakistan PSX reflects a growing appetite for innovation in capital markets. LSE SPAC-I Limited, incorporated in March 2025, aims to raise Rs250 million not merely as a funding exercise, but as a vehicle for acquiring a high-growth business in renewable energy. Unlike traditional IPOs, SPACs offer investors an opportunity to back a management team with a clear acquisition strategy. In this case, the direction is already defined making it even more compelling. SPAC Pakistan PSX IPO Structure Explained The IPO structure is designed to balance institutional confidence with public participation. LSE SPAC-I is offering 25 million ordinary shares at a fixed price of PKR 10 per share. A significant 80% allocation is reserved for pre-IPO investors, while the remaining 20% is open to the general public ensuring both stability and accessibility. The offering is supported by prominent financial advisors, including LSE Capital Limited and Dawood Equities Limited, with underwriting handled by Muhammad Munir Khanani Securities Limited. Investors can seamlessly subscribe via digital platforms such as the PSX e-IPO System and CDC’s Centralized e-IPO System, reflecting a broader shift toward digitized capital markets in Pakistan. Ningbo Green Light Energy: The Real Story Behind SPAC Pakistan PSX What truly sets this SPAC Pakistan PSX initiative apart is its predefined acquisition target: Ningbo Green Light Energy Limited (NGLE). NGLE is already a significant player in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector, with over 300 MW of installed capacity serving government, military, and industrial clients. This is not a speculative bet it’s a calculated move into a sector that is rapidly gaining importance amid global energy transitions. How the SPAC Pakistan PSX Deal Will Work The transaction unfolds in two strategic phases. First, LSE SPAC-I will deploy approximately PKR 230 million from IPO proceeds to acquire a 19.04% stake in NGLE through a rights issue. Next comes the transformation: both entities will pursue a merger through a legal scheme filed with the Lahore High Court. Once completed, NGLE will remain as the listed company on PSX, while LSE SPAC-I will cease to exist. For investors, the upside lies in the share swap mechanism each SPAC share converts into 1.20 NGLE shares, effectively offering exposure at a discounted valuation compared to NGLE’s projected book value. Leadership and Strategic Backing Behind every successful SPAC is a strong leadership team. LSE SPAC-I is led by CEO Aasiya Riaz and Chairman Omar Mahmood Hayat, bringing a blend of financial expertise and strategic oversight. Additionally, LSE Ventures Limited will act as the main sponsor, committing a minimum investment of PKR 29 million, with the flexibility to scale up to PKR 100 million underscoring strong institutional confidence. Why SPAC Pakistan PSX Matters for the Future The introduction of SPAC Pakistan PSX could redefine how companies go public in Pakistan. By combining capital raising with strategic acquisitions, SPACs reduce uncertainty and accelerate growth opportunities. More importantly, this deal places renewable energy at the center of Pakistan’s capital market evolution aligning financial innovation with sustainability goals. If successful, this could pave the way for more SPAC listings, attracting both local and international investors seeking exposure to emerging sectors. Final Thoughts The debut of SPAC Pakistan PSX is more than just a financial milestone it’s a signal that Pakistan’s markets are evolving. With a clear acquisition target, strong institutional backing, and exposure to renewable energy, LSE SPAC-I Limited is positioned to capture investor curiosity and potentially reshape investment trends. For investors, this is not just another IPO it’s a front-row seat to the future of Pakistan’s capital markets.

PSX Plunges 17,000 Points Since its Peak in January as Geopolitical Fears Trigger 9% Correction
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PSX Plunges 17,000 Points Since its Peak in January as Geopolitical Fears Trigger 9% Correction

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has experienced a significant correction in February 2026, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index shedding approximately 17,000 points (around -9%) from its all-time peak in January 2026. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/foreign-exchange-reserves-of-pakistan-steady-growth-amid-market-fluctuations/ The index hit a record high of 191,032.73 points in late January, amid a strong bull run earlier in the year, but has since declined sharply due to persistent selling pressure. As of February 19, 2026 (close), the KSE-100 settled at 172,170.29 points, reflecting a steep single-day drop of 6,683 points (-3.74%)—marking one of the largest point declines in PSX history. This was driven by heightened geopolitical risks, rising global oil prices, institutional redemptions, and increased risk aversion among investors. The slide has erased substantial market capitalization (e.g., over Rs700 billion in the latest major session) and impacted key sectors heavily. According to the JS Global research report (REP-084, dated February 20, 2026), the major laggard sectors contributing to the index’s decline since the January peak include: Fertilizer: -3,934 points (-23.2% contribution)Commercial Banks: -2,819 points (-16.6%)Oil & Gas Exploration Companies: -2,812 points (-16.5%)Cement: -2,092 points (-12.3%)Oil & Gas Marketing Companies: -998 points (-5.9%) The top laggard stocks dragging the index down were led by Fauji Fertilizer Company Ltd (-2,826 points, -16.6% contribution), followed by Pakistan Petroleum Ltd, Oil & Gas Development Company Ltd, Engro Fertilizers Ltd, and others in energy, cement, and power sectors. Waqas Ghani Kukaswadia, Research Head at JS Global, commented: “The move was triggered by heightened geopolitical risks, which weakened sentiment and raised risk aversion. This was then exacerbated by higher redemptions triggering institutional selling. Now, drawdowns of this scale are uncomfortable but they are a part of market normalization after a strong rally. Focus should be less on the sell-off itself and more on whether earnings momentum and macro stability remain intact.” Despite the recent volatility—including multiple sharp daily drops in mid-to-late February—the index remains significantly higher year-over-year (around +50% in some comparisons), reflecting the broader positive momentum from 2025-early 2026 before this normalization phase.

Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant: A Bold Move Set to Transform the Tech Industry
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Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant: A Bold Move Set to Transform the Tech Industry

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The Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant initiative is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting developments in the country’s technology and manufacturing sectors. With global tech giant Apple Inc. reportedly planning to begin iPhone production locally, Pakistan could be on the verge of a historic industrial shift. Backed by incentives under the government’s proposed Mobile and Electronics Manufacturing Framework, the move isn’t just about assembling phones it’s about building an ecosystem. The plan includes refurbishing older iPhones for re-export, a strategy expected to generate around $100 million in its first year alone. Why the Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant Matters Pakistan has long been a consumption-driven smartphone market. The Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant could flip that narrative by positioning the country as a production and export hub. The initiative, currently under review by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, includes attractive incentives such as: • Discounted land rates for Apple’s facilities• An increased performance incentive of up to 8%• Policy support for repair and refurbishment operations According to Engineering Development Board CEO Hamad Ali Mansoor, Apple plans to initially focus on repairing iPhones that are two to three years old before transitioning into full-scale manufacturing mirroring its successful strategies in other countries. A Proven Global Strategy Comes to Pakistan Apple has already tested this phased approach in markets like India, Indonesia, and Malaysia. In each case, refurbishment operations laid the groundwork for deeper manufacturing investments. For Pakistan, this signals a low-risk entry point that gradually builds capacity, skills, and supply chain integration key ingredients for sustainable industrial growth. Beyond Apple: A Broader Investment Wave The Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. The government is simultaneously working to attract global investors, including an anticipated $557 million influx from Chinese firms following agreements signed during diplomatic engagements with China. Additionally, policymakers are expanding the vision beyond smartphones to include: • Laptops• Tablets• Smartwatches• Other consumer electronics This multi-category focus aims to position Pakistan as a regional export hub rather than just a domestic assembly market. Localisation: The Real Game-Changer One of the most ambitious aspects of the framework is its push for localisation. Manufacturers are being encouraged to increase the share of locally produced components: • From 12% to 35% within the first year• Targeting up to 50% in subsequent years To support this, the government plans to introduce an export levy of up to 6% on high-end devices, generating an estimated Rs62 billion. These funds will be reinvested into strengthening local supply chains and manufacturing capabilities. Interestingly, mid-range smartphones priced between Rs50,000 and Rs60,000 will remain exempt ensuring affordability for consumers while focusing revenue generation on premium segments. Policy Support Driving Confidence Key government figures, including Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar Khan, have expressed strong backing for the policy. This level of institutional support is critical in attracting multinational corporations like Apple. The proposed incentives combined with Pakistan’s growing market size and strategic location create a compelling case for long-term investment. What This Means for Pakistan’s Future If successfully implemented, the Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant could: • Create thousands of skilled jobs• Boost exports and foreign exchange earnings• Accelerate technology transfer and innovation• Strengthen Pakistan’s position in global supply chains More importantly, it signals a shift in perception from Pakistan as a consumer market to Pakistan as a production powerhouse. Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Pakistan’s Tech Industry The Apple Pakistan Manufacturing Plant is more than just a corporate expansion it’s a potential turning point for the country’s economic and technological trajectory. With the right execution, Pakistan could join the ranks of key manufacturing hubs in Asia. The question now is not whether this transformation is possible but how quickly it can become reality.

BankIslami reports PKR 13.9 billion profit before tax in 2025
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BankIslami reports PKR 13.9 billion profit before tax in 2025

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Karachi: BankIslami, one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing Islamic financial institutions, has announced a profit before tax (PBT) of PKR 13.9 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025. The Bank announced a cash dividend of PKR 1.25 per share (12.5%), bringing the total payout for the year to PKR 2.75 per share (27.5%). Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/foreign-investors-profit-repatriation-pakistan-surges-26-in-7mfy26-a-sharp-rise-signals-economic-momentum/ The Bank’s non-funded income surged by 107% year-on-year, demonstrating strong diversification of revenue streams. Total income declined by 11% due to declining policy rates and compressed spreads; however, the contraction remained moderate relative to broader industry trends. In 2025, BankIslami expanded its deposit base by over PKR 100 billion for the second time in a decade, closing the year at PKR 660 billion. This represents 18% year-on-year growth, mainly driven by a robust 35.2% increase in current accounts, elevating the CASA ratio to a record 71%. During the year, BankIslami made several strategic investments to support its long-term expansion, including strengthening its digital infrastructure, expanding its branch network, and acquiring a 32-storey tower in Karachi, which is set to serve as the Bank’s new headquarters. These investments contributed to a 42% increase in operating expenses. Prudent capital management remained a cornerstone of performance, with the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) standing at a solid 16.6%, comfortably above the regulatory requirement. The Asset-to-Deposit Ratio stood at 48.8%, reflecting disciplined balance sheet deployment. Asset quality continued to improve, with delinquent financing declining by 9.4% to PKR 21.9 billion, resulting in a reduction in the infection ratio from 7.4% to 6.8%. The highlight of the year was being named Pakistan’s Best Islamic Bank at the Euromoney Islamic Finance Awards, along with several other accolades that further strengthened the Bank’s achievements and brand equity. Commenting on BankIslami’s performance, President & CEO, Rizwan Ata, said, “2025 was a year of learning and opportunity. While the industry faced headwinds, it reinforced the importance of disciplined diversification across risks and investments.” “As we step into 2026, our focus is to become stronger and more stable and continue contributing to the evolution of the broader industry. We remain committed to our purpose of Saving Humanity from Riba and to advancing Islamic banking as the first choice for customers across Pakistan,” he added. BankIslami is currently operating over 560 branches across Pakistan and delivering a diverse range of Shariah-compliant banking products to its customers. The Bank is strategically expanding its presence across high-impact business areas, including Retail and Digital Banking, Cash Management, Investment Banking, Trade Finance, and Home Remittance, to capture emerging opportunities and enhance customer engagement. The Bank remains committed to delivering ethical, digitally empowered, and customer-centric financial services across its growing footprint.

Nestlé Announces Ice Cream Businesses Sale, Posts Solid Q4 Growth in 2025 Results
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Nestlé Announces Ice Cream Businesses Sale, Posts Solid Q4 Growth in 2025 Results

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Nestlé delivered better-than-forecast fourth-quarter results for 2025 and revealed advanced negotiations to offload its remaining ice cream businesses, aligning with CEO Philipp Navratil’s strategy to concentrate on high-potential core segments. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/psx-plunges-nearly-4-6682-points-on-geopolitical-fears-and-oil-spike/ Announced February 19, 2026, alongside full-year figures, the news boosted Nestlé shares by 2.8%. Strong Q4 Momentum Organic growth hit 4% in Q4 (above consensus of ~3.5%), fueled by 2.8% pricing and 1.3% volume growth (RIG). Full-year 2025 saw 3.5% organic growth, 0.8% RIG, and a 16.1% underlying profit margin. The company generated solid free cash flow and trimmed net debt, supporting a proposed dividend increase to CHF 3.10 per share. Portfolio Refocus and Ice Cream Exit Nestlé plans to sell ice cream assets in key regions to Froneri (its JV with PAI Partners), enabling deeper emphasis on coffee, petcare, nutrition, and food & snacks. This follows broader restructuring, including planned 16,000 job reductions and reviews of other non-core assets like vitamins and waters (deconsolidation targeted for 2027). Navratil emphasized: “We are confident that our faster execution of a more focused strategy will deliver sustained improvement through 2026 and beyond.” 2026 Guidance Organic growth projected at 3-4%, with accelerating RIG and margin gains from 16.1%. Minor 2026 headwinds from prior recalls are anticipated but not expected to derail progress. The moves reflect efforts to counter external pressures while prioritizing innovation and efficiency for long-term value creation.

PSX Plunges Nearly 4%, 6682 Points, on Geopolitical Fears and Oil Spike
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PSX Plunges Nearly 4%, 6682 Points, on Geopolitical Fears and Oil Spike

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a sharp downturn on Thursday, February 19, 2026, as the benchmark KSE-100 index plunged nearly 4% amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty. The index opened lower and faced sustained selling pressure throughout the session, with only brief minor recoveries that failed to hold. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/privatisation-commission-forms-panel-to-seal-adb-deal-for-islamabad-airport-privatisation/ It reached an intra-day low of around 171,647 points before closing at 172,170.29, down 6,682.80 points or 3.74% from the previous close. This marked a significant reversal after a strong rebound the day before, when the index had climbed to 178,853 points on value-hunting and institutional buying. Geopolitical Tensions and Oil Price Surge Weigh Heavy Analysts pointed to escalating US-Iran tensions as a primary driver of investor caution. Rising international oil prices, supported by these regional risks, further eroded confidence in energy-sensitive sectors. Both foreign and local investors turned risk-averse, leading to broad-based selling. Head of Research at Ismail Iqbal Securities, Saad Hanif, noted that the combination of geopolitical jitters and oil price spikes kept sentiment subdued, with no strong bullish momentum emerging. Sector-Wide Impact and Key Performers Heavy selling hit major sectors including cement, commercial banks, fertilizers, oil and gas exploration, oil marketing companies (OMCs), power generation, and refineries. Index-heavy stocks such as OGDC, PPL, PSO, HUBCO, MARI, MCB, and MEBL traded deep in the red, dragging the benchmark lower. Despite the overall bearish trend, some smaller stocks showed resilience, with gainers like Azgard Nine (up 12.5%) and others in niche segments posting double-digit rises. High-volume trading was seen in stocks like WorldCall Telecom and K-Electric. The drop reflects broader market vulnerability to external shocks, even as Asian markets elsewhere rose on tech gains. Investors remain watchful for any easing in geopolitical risks or positive domestic cues to support a potential recovery.

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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