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Inflation Set To Rebound To 11.4% In August On Food And Fuel Surge
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Inflation Set To Rebound To 11.4% In August On Food And Fuel Surge

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Pakistan’s annual inflation is expected to rebound to 11.4% year-on-year in August 2026, according to estimates by AKD Research, after easing into single digits in July. The National Consumer Price Index is projected to rise 1.3% month-on-month, marking its strongest monthly increase in four months. Higher food and fuel prices are expected to be the main drivers of the increase. Food And Transport Costs Lead Inflation The food index, which carries a 34.5% weight in the CPI basket, is forecast to rise 2.5% month-on-month and 14.8% year-on-year. Transport inflation is expected to increase 2.9% month-on-month and 19.6% year-on-year, reflecting higher fuel costs and supply pressures. Communication services are also projected to remain elevated, with the index expected to rise 13.8% year-on-year. Food Prices Face Fresh Pressure Food prices are expected to remain under pressure due to monsoon-related disruptions and transportation challenges. Onion prices could rise by 59.5% month-on-month, while wheat prices are projected to increase 6.3%. Wheat flour may rise 2.7%, while eggs and gram pulse are expected to increase by 8.3% and 8.1%, respectively. Tomato and moong pulse prices, however, are expected to decline slightly. Fuel Costs Add To Inflation Risks Energy prices are another major source of pressure. Motor spirit prices are estimated to increase 3.6% month-on-month, while high-speed diesel prices could rise by 15.3%. Liquid hydrocarbon prices are also forecast to increase 1% amid continuing supply disruptions linked to regional tensions and Strait of Hormuz-related risks. CPI Expected To Reach 300.9 AKD Research estimates the overall CPI index at 300.9 in August, compared with 296.9 in July and 270.2 a year earlier. While electricity charges in the housing segment are expected to ease slightly, the reduction is unlikely to offset the broader increase in food, transport and fuel costs. Inflation Risks Return For Consumers The projected August rebound signals renewed pressure on household budgets after inflation had shown signs of moderation. Higher food and transportation expenses could affect consumers most directly, while businesses may also face increased logistics and operating costs. The inflation outlook will depend heavily on food supply conditions, fuel prices, transport availability and regional energy disruptions in the coming weeks.

Bitcoin Price Surges Above $80,000 As Weak Dollar Boosts Crypto Market
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Bitcoin Price Surges Above $80,000 As Weak Dollar Boosts Crypto Market

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The Bitcoin price surged above $80,000 on Tuesday, reaching its highest level in more than three months as a weaker US dollar and renewed optimism around cryptocurrency regulation helped revive momentum across the digital asset market. Bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocurrency, climbed to $81,237.94 during Asian trading hours, its highest level since mid-May. It was later trading at around $80,323.24. The latest rally has extended Bitcoin’s strong performance in August. The cryptocurrency has gained around 28 per cent this month, putting it on track for its biggest monthly increase since November 2024. Bitcoin has also risen about 16pc since last week, when US President Donald Trump called on Congress to approve legislation aimed at establishing clearer rules and definitions for the expanding cryptocurrency sector. Bitcoin Gains Momentum As Dollar Weakens The latest Bitcoin price rally has been supported by weakness in the US dollar, which followed moves by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent aimed at calming financial markets and limiting pressure on long-term US bond yields. The US Treasury recently announced plans to increase purchases of longer-dated government bonds. The move is intended to help contain gains in long-term yields and ease pressure in the bond market. However, the announcement has also contributed to weakness in the dollar as investors reassess the outlook for US monetary and fiscal policy. A weaker dollar can benefit assets such as Bitcoin and gold because investors often turn toward alternative stores of value when confidence in traditional financial assets or currencies comes under pressure. Gold has also benefited from the dollar’s weakness, reaching a three-month high alongside Bitcoin. Trump Pushes For Clearer Crypto Rules Another factor supporting the cryptocurrency market is growing expectations of clearer regulation in the United States. President Donald Trump last week urged Congress to pass legislation that would establish clearer definitions and rules for the cryptocurrency sector. The call has strengthened investor expectations that the US administration could pursue a more supportive regulatory environment for digital assets. Bitcoin has responded strongly to the developments, rising 16pc since Trump’s announcement. Greater regulatory clarity could make it easier for institutional investors and financial companies to participate in the cryptocurrency market. Investors have increasingly watched US policy developments because the country remains one of the world’s most important markets for digital assets. Treasury Policy Fuels Debasement Trade Analysts said the Treasury’s bond-buying plans have also revived interest in what markets call the “debasement trade.” The term refers to investor strategies that seek protection from the potential erosion of currency value when governments take measures that may increase liquidity or prevent bond yields from rising to levels determined purely by market forces. Tim Sun, senior researcher at HashKey Group, said Bessent’s recent messaging had reinforced expectations that US policymakers may have limited tolerance for further increases in long-term bond yields, at least until the midterm elections. He said such an environment could provide a supportive macroeconomic backdrop for assets including Bitcoin and gold. The latest developments have therefore shifted some investor attention away from traditional fixed-income assets and toward physical and digital assets. Analysts See Potential For Further Bitcoin Gains Market analysts believe Bitcoin could extend its rally if the cryptocurrency manages to sustain its move above key technical levels. Geoff Kendrick, global head of digital assets research at Standard Chartered, said the Treasury’s latest move was particularly favourable for Bitcoin. He argued that Bitcoin was created in part to provide investors with an alternative to financial-system interventions that can affect currencies and traditional markets. Tony Sycamore, a market analyst at IG, also said the Treasury announcement had encouraged investors to move into physical and digital assets as concerns over currency debasement returned. He suggested that a sustained break above current levels could open the way for Bitcoin to move toward $95,000 and potentially $100,000. Such projections remain market expectations rather than guarantees, as Bitcoin continues to face substantial volatility. Crypto Market Watches US Policy The latest Bitcoin price surge above $80,000 highlights how closely the cryptocurrency market is responding to developments in US financial and regulatory policy. A combination of a weaker dollar, expectations of more supportive cryptocurrency regulation and renewed concerns about currency debasement has created a favourable environment for Bitcoin. However, digital assets remain sensitive to changes in interest-rate expectations, bond yields, investor sentiment and regulatory decisions. Bitcoin’s ability to remain above $80,000 could therefore become an important test for the market’s next direction. If buyers maintain momentum, analysts see the possibility of further gains toward $95,000 and $100,000.

Pakistan Faces 3m-Tonne Wheat Shortfall, $1.2bn Import Bill Looms
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Pakistan Faces 3m-Tonne Wheat Shortfall, $1.2bn Import Bill Looms

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Pakistan could face a 3-million-tonne wheat shortfall in the upcoming crop season, potentially forcing the government to spend around $1.2 billion in foreign exchange on wheat imports unless urgent policy measures are taken before the Rabi season, Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI) President Khalid Mahmood Khokhar warned. Speaking at a press conference, Khokhar urged federal and provincial policymakers to take immediate steps to protect wheat production and prevent a potential food security crisis. He said ineffective agricultural policies over the past three years had severely damaged domestic wheat production and caused an estimated Rs2,200 billion loss to farmers. According to the PKI, the situation requires immediate intervention before farmers begin making decisions about the upcoming Rabi crop. Pakistan Wheat Shortfall Could Reach 3m Tonnes Khokhar warned that Pakistan could fall short of its wheat requirements by approximately 3m tonnes if farmers are not provided with sufficient incentives to cultivate wheat. The resulting shortage could force the government to rely on imports, placing additional pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The PKI estimates that importing the potential shortfall could cost approximately $1.2bn. At a time when Pakistan continues to manage external financing requirements and protect its foreign exchange reserves, such an import bill could add further pressure to the country’s balance of payments. The farmers’ body therefore called for immediate policy action before the Rabi sowing season begins. Khokhar urged the prime minister and the federal minister for National Food Security to officially announce the wheat procurement policy and restore the support price by the end of August. He said farmers need sufficient time to plan their crops, arrange inputs and decide how much land they will dedicate to wheat cultivation. PKI Demands Rs4,702 Wheat Support Price The Pakistan Kissan Ittehad has called for the restoration of the wheat support price mechanism at Rs4,702 per 40kg. According to PKI estimates, farmers currently face a net production cost of around Rs3,761 per 40kg of wheat. The organisation said the proposed support price includes a standard 25 per cent profit margin, which it considers necessary to make wheat cultivation financially attractive for farmers. The PKI believes an appropriate support price could encourage farmers to bring currently fallow land back under cultivation. The organisation has set a target of 31m tonnes of domestic wheat production, arguing that achieving such a yield would help Pakistan reduce its dependence on imports and strengthen national food security. Without adequate incentives, farmers could shift away from wheat toward crops offering better returns, increasing the risk of a domestic supply shortage. Global Events Increase Farming Costs The farmers’ body also highlighted the impact of international developments on Pakistan’s agricultural production costs. According to the PKI, the Gulf conflict that began on February 28, disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and the continuing Russia-Ukraine war have contributed to higher input and transportation costs. Higher diesel prices have increased expenses for tractors, harvesters, transporters and other agricultural machinery. Farmers are also facing higher tube-well electricity tariffs, adding to irrigation costs. At the same time, disruptions in international shipping have increased transportation costs and extended shipping lead times for agricultural inputs. These factors have made wheat production more expensive and reduced farmers’ profit margins. The PKI argued that the government needs to take these higher production costs into account when setting wheat procurement policies. Farmers Seek Broader Fertiliser Subsidies The PKI has also called for changes to any future fertiliser subsidy programme. The farmers’ organisation said subsidies should be based on nutrient content rather than a single fertiliser product. It specifically urged the government to extend any phosphatic fertiliser subsidy to all relevant phosphatic products instead of restricting support to DAP. The PKI referred to an Economic Coordination Committee decision from March 2022, which it said included various phosphatic fertiliser grades. According to the organisation, nearly 80 per cent of farmers rely on alternative high-value phosphatic fertilisers to improve crop yields. These products include Nitrophos, TSP, SSP, MAP, NP/NPS and NPKs. The organisation warned that restricting subsidies to DAP could distort the market and encourage speculation. DAP-Only Subsidy Could Increase Import Costs The PKI argued that limiting fertiliser relief to DAP could encourage black-market activity while creating unnecessary demand for imported DAP. The organisation said Pakistan already has sufficient domestic supplies of alternative phosphatic fertilisers to meet the requirements of the 2026-27 crop cycle. It therefore urged policymakers to design subsidies around nutrients rather than specific brands or fertiliser types. A broader subsidy mechanism, according to the farmers’ body, would give growers greater flexibility in choosing fertilisers based on soil conditions and crop requirements. The organisation also believes such a policy could reduce unnecessary pressure on foreign exchange reserves. Govt Faces Pressure Before Rabi Season The warning over the Pakistan wheat shortfall comes ahead of a critical period for agricultural policymaking. Wheat remains one of the country’s most important staple crops, making adequate domestic production essential for food security and price stability. A production gap of 3m tonnes could increase dependence on international markets and expose consumers to higher prices if global wheat prices rise. For the government, wheat imports would also mean additional pressure on foreign exchange reserves. The PKI has therefore called for the immediate restoration of the support price, an early procurement policy announcement and broader fertiliser subsidies. Whether the government adopts these measures before the Rabi season will be crucial for wheat production in 2026-27. Farmers argue that timely decisions are necessary to give growers confidence and prevent Pakistan from facing another costly wheat import cycle.

Taj Lubricants Puts Your Everyday Performance at the Heart of New Engine Oil Launch
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Taj Lubricants Puts Your Everyday Performance at the Heart of New Engine Oil Launch

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For decades, Taj Gasoline has been part of Pakistan’s roads, powering your everyday journeys from the morning commute to long-distance drives and business trips. Since 1965, the brand has built a relationship with everyone on the road that goes beyond simply filling a tank. To enhance your vehicle reliability so you don’t worry about vehicle downtime and poor performance, Taj Gasoline is taking that relationship a step further with the launch of its own engine oil range, Taj Lubricants.For most people, a vehicle is never just a vehicle. Whether its a motorcycle that takes someone to work every morning or a car that gets a family safely through a busy week or the pickup that delivers goods to customers or the diesel vehicle that keeps a business moving. Taj recognizes that every journey is not only from point A to point B but a journey to fulfil dreams. Be it to empower the next generation by dropping them to school or to save lives by getting people to a hospital on time, the right engine oil helps an engine work smoothly, protects its moving parts and supports reliable performance over time. Keeping this everyday purpose of Pakistanis at heart, Taj Lubricants has introduced three new engine oil ranges Jet (For Motorcycles), Nitro (For Petrol Engines) and Ultima (For Diesel Engines), available exclusively at Taj Gasoline fuel stations across Pakistan. For customers, this exclusive availability offers something particularly important: Trust.When buying an engine oil, motorists want to know that the product is genuine and that they are getting what they paid for. By making its lubricants available only through its own network of Taj Gasoline fuel stations, Taj is making that choice simpler and more reassuring. But the launch is about more than a new product on a fuel station shelf. It is an extension of the role Taj has played in the lives of motorists for generations. From fuel to roadside assistance through its free Ehsas Helpline (03-111-111-825), Taj has continued to focus on making journeys easier. Its stations also provide motorists with places to take a break, while the company emphasizes fuel quantity and quality across its network. Now, the same focus is moving under the hood. Three Oils. Different Engines. One Purpose. Not every vehicle has the same needs. That is why Taj Lubricants has developed three ranges, each designed around a different type of everyday driving. ET is made for motorcycles, supporting smoother engine performance for riders who deal with busy roads, changing weather and long hours on the move. For those who use their bikes for work, commuting or family responsibilities, dependable performance is not a luxury. It is part of getting through the day.For petrol car owners, NITRO focuses on performance and fuel efficiency. It is designed for drivers who want their cars to deliver a dependable drive while getting better value from their everyday journeys. Then there is ULTIMA, developed for diesel engines that often have tougher jobs to do. Whether it is transportation, commercial use or demanding daily work, diesel vehicles are expected to keep going. ULTIMA is designed to support that performance and protection when the engine has work to do.What makes the range interesting is that Taj is not trying to turn engine oil into a complicated decision for everyday motorists. The idea is simple: choose the oil made for your vehicle, get a genuine product from a Taj Gasoline station, and get back to the journey that matters. And our highly trained staff will understand your vehicle needs and recommend the best suited product for your vehicle. Because ultimately, performance is not just about horsepower, mileage or what happens inside an engine. It is about what happens because the vehicle keeps performing. It is about reaching work on time. Making another delivery. Taking the kids to school. Meeting a customer. Getting home after a long day. Or taking one more step towards a goal.Performance Mein Dam, Badlo Halaat Har Qadam.

AGP Pharma Sales Drop 16% in 2Q as Local Volumes, Exports Weaken
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AGP Pharma Sales Drop 16% in 2Q as Local Volumes, Exports Weaken

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KARACHI: AGP Limited reported a 16% year-on-year drop in sales to Rs4.68 billion in the second quarter of calendar year 2026. The decline stemmed from weaker local sale volumes and subdued exports, according to a research note by Optimus Capital. Cost Controls Keep Earnings Nearly Flat Quarterly sales also fell 32% from the preceding quarter’s Rs6.85 billion. For the first half of 2026, sales stood at Rs11.53 billion, down 9% from Rs12.72 billion a year earlier. Despite the sharp top-line contraction, profit after tax attributable to company owners declined only 3% year-on-year to Rs601 million. Earnings per share came in at Rs2.15. The company also declared a dividend of Rs2 per share for the quarter. Gross profit stood at Rs2.86 billion. Gross margin improved 2.6 percentage points to 61.2%. The margin expansion was supported by price increases, a higher share of non-essential medicines, and a 21% reduction in cost of sales through vendor negotiations. Operating profit fell 25% year-on-year to Rs1 billion. Finance cost eased 5% to Rs344 million, helped by a Rs2.3 billion reduction in long-term debt. Tax expense plunged 83% to Rs47 million. The effective tax rate dropped to 7.4%, linked to losses at OBS subsidiaries. Analysts said further clarification on the tax position is awaited. Sales Expected To Remain Under Pressure Optimus noted that sales are expected to remain under pressure through the rest of 2026. The main drag is subdued exports linked to the Afghan border closure. Commercialisation in other export destinations is projected to begin in 2027. The company also plans additional marketing and manufacturing contracts. Consolidation of OBS Pharma and NCI’s shareholding in OBS AGP and OBS Pak is seen as a potential source of further upside. In the first half, profit attributable to owners was almost unchanged at Rs1.46 billion against Rs1.47 billion a year earlier. The results highlight ongoing volume challenges in both domestic and export markets for the pharmaceutical firm.

Governor SBP Jameel Ahmed Pushes Banks to Shift From Govt Financing to Private Sector Growth
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Governor SBP Jameel Ahmed Pushes Banks to Shift From Govt Financing to Private Sector Growth

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State Bank of Pakistan Governor Jameel Ahmed has delivered a pointed message to the country’s banking industry: Pakistan cannot achieve sustainable economic growth if banks continue to rely heavily on traditional business models and government financing. Addressing the 11th Pakistan Banking Awards 2026 in Karachi, Governor Jameel Ahmed said the banking sector must become more aggressive in mobilizing retail deposits and extending credit to the private sector. His remarks come at a critical stage for Pakistan. While macroeconomic stabilization has reduced some immediate pressures, the economy still faces the harder challenge of generating investment, employment and productivity-led growth. Governor Jameel Ahmed acknowledged that Pakistan had demonstrated resilience during FY26 despite severe floods, geopolitical tensions and an uncertain global trade environment. Inflation remained broadly aligned with the medium-term target, inflation expectations stayed relatively anchored and the current account deficit remained near the lower end of the projected range. Foreign exchange reserves also continued to improve, exceeding the end-June target of 18 billion dollars. Importantly, Ahmed highlighted that reserve accumulation was increasingly supported by State Bank foreign exchange purchases rather than debt-driven inflows. Governor Jameel Ahmed Highlights Rs69 Trillion Banking Sector Pakistan’s banking industry has expanded considerably. Governor Jameel Ahmed said total banking-sector assets reached Rs69 trillion by the end of June 2026, while deposits stood at Rs43 trillion. Banks also remain well capitalized, with the sector’s Capital Adequacy Ratio comfortably above both international benchmarks and domestic regulatory requirements. However, the headline numbers hide a deeper structural problem. Pakistan’s banking assets and deposits remain relatively small compared with GDP when measured against several emerging-market economies. The country’s high currency-to-deposit ratio also indicates that a significant amount of economic activity remains outside the formal banking system. This is where Governor Jameel Ahmed’s call for stronger retail deposit mobilization becomes particularly important. Banks need to compete for household deposits through better returns, improved customer service and more accessible financial products. Simply accumulating large balance sheets is not enough if the financial system fails to channel savings into productive investment. Private Sector Credit Becomes the Bigger Challenge The most important part of Governor Jameel Ahmed’s message was his call for greater private-sector financing. Pakistan’s private-sector credit penetration remains significantly below that of many emerging-market peers. More concerning is the long-term decline in the ratio of bank credit to the private sector relative to GDP. The Governor rejected the idea that government borrowing alone fully explains this weakness. He pointed out that some emerging economies with substantial domestic government debt still maintain much higher levels of private-sector credit. This raises an uncomfortable question for Pakistan’s banking industry: if banks have strong deposits, substantial assets and healthy capital positions, why is productive private-sector lending still relatively weak? The answer requires more than blaming fiscal policy. Banks must also reconsider their risk appetite, lending models and customer acquisition strategies. Pakistan Needs Banks to Finance Businesses, Not Just Balance Sheets The shift demanded by Governor Jameel Ahmed could have major implications for Pakistan’s businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, exporters, manufacturers and agriculture-related companies. Greater private-sector credit can help businesses expand capacity, purchase machinery, invest in technology and create employment. But this will only happen if banks develop lending products that reflect the realities of Pakistani businesses rather than relying excessively on conventional collateral-based lending. The government, regulators and banks therefore share responsibility. If banks are encouraged to lend more but businesses continue to face weak documentation, informality and governance problems, credit growth will remain difficult. Conversely, if banks remain excessively conservative, Pakistan risks trapping capital in low-risk government financing while productive sectors struggle to obtain funding. Pakistan Banking Awards 2026 Recognize Industry Leaders The 11th Pakistan Banking Awards were organized by NIBAF Pakistan in collaboration with Dawn Media Group and A. F. Ferguson & Co. Meezan Bank Limited received the Best Bank award. Bank of Punjab won recognition for Best Bank for Women Inclusion, Best Bank for Small and Medium Enterprises and Best Bank for Agriculture Inclusion. ASA Microfinance Bank Limited was named Best Microfinance Bank, while Bank Alfalah Limited received the Best Bank for Digital Excellence award. Meezan Bank also won Best Bank for Customer Engagement. Askari Bank Limited and Faysal Bank Limited shared the Best Mid-Sized Bank award. HBL received the Best Bank for ESG award, while Pakistan Microfinance Investment Company Limited was recognized for Best Contribution by a Non-Bank Entity. The awards celebrate banking achievements, but Governor Jameel Ahmed’s broader message points toward a more demanding benchmark for the industry. The Real Test for Pakistan’s Banks Starts Now Pakistan’s banking sector has achieved scale, profitability and capital strength. The next question is whether it can convert that financial strength into broader economic value. Governor Jameel Ahmed’s message effectively shifts the debate from banking stability to banking usefulness. A stronger deposit culture, deeper financial inclusion and significantly greater private-sector lending could help Pakistan move from stabilization toward sustainable growth. But achieving that transition will require banks to take calculated risks, innovate their lending models and compete for customers beyond traditional corporate and government business. For Pakistan, the stakes are much larger than banking-sector profits. If financial institutions cannot effectively channel domestic savings into productive private investment, economic stabilization may prove to be only the beginning rather than the foundation of lasting growth.

Meezan Bank Wins Best Bank of Pakistan Award for Sixth Time
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Meezan Bank Wins Best Bank of Pakistan Award for Sixth Time

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Meezan Bank has once again claimed the Best Bank of Pakistan title, winning the prestigious award for the sixth time and extending its winning streak to four consecutive years. The latest recognition at the 11th Pakistan Banking Awards further strengthens the bank’s position as one of the country’s most dominant financial institutions. According to Meezan Bank, the lender has now received the Best Bank award in 2018, 2020, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026. The bank says this makes it the only Pakistani lender to secure the top recognition on six occasions. The achievement is particularly significant because Meezan Bank has continued to win the award during a period when Pakistan’s banking industry has faced intense pressure from inflation, economic uncertainty, changing interest rates, digital disruption and growing customer expectations. Meezan Bank Best Bank of Pakistan Streak Raises the Bar Meezan Bank attributed its latest success to its focus on Shariah compliant banking, innovation and consistent performance. The bank also thanked its customers, employees and other stakeholders for supporting its growth. However, repeated awards should not simply be viewed as a measure of past performance. They also raise expectations for what the bank delivers next. Winning the Meezan Bank Best Bank of Pakistan title six times gives the institution a powerful competitive advantage, but maintaining that reputation will require more than strong financial performance. Customers increasingly expect faster digital services, transparent pricing, responsive complaint handling and broader financial inclusion. For Meezan Bank, the real test will be whether its award winning reputation translates into consistently better customer experiences across Pakistan. Pakistan Banking Awards Recognize Wider Industry Performance The 11th Pakistan Banking Awards also highlighted achievements by several other financial institutions. Bank of Punjab secured awards for Best Bank for Women Inclusion, Best Bank for Small and Medium Enterprises and Best Bank for Agriculture Inclusion. These categories are particularly important because access to finance remains a major challenge for women, small businesses and the agriculture sector. Bank Alfalah received the Best Bank for Digital Excellence award, highlighting the growing importance of technology and digital banking in Pakistan. Meezan Bank also won the Best Bank for Customer Engagement award, adding another major recognition to its 2026 success. Askari Bank and Faysal Bank jointly received the Best Mid Sized Bank award, while HBL won the Best Bank for ESG recognition. ASA Microfinance Bank Limited was named Best Microfinance Bank, while Pakistan Microfinance Investment Company Limited received the award for Best Contribution by a Non Bank Entity. What Meezan Bank Must Prove Next The latest Meezan Bank Best Bank of Pakistan victory is undoubtedly a major achievement, but the banking sector is changing rapidly. Pakistan’s banks are under pressure to expand financial inclusion, improve digital services, strengthen cybersecurity and make financing more accessible to businesses and individuals. Islamic banking is also becoming increasingly competitive as customers seek alternatives to conventional financial products. Meezan Bank’s continued success therefore creates a higher benchmark for the institution itself. Six wins demonstrate consistency, but the next challenge is proving that award winning performance can remain sustainable as competition intensifies. For now, however, Meezan Bank has secured another landmark achievement. Its sixth Best Bank title and fourth consecutive victory place it firmly at the centre of Pakistan’s evolving banking landscape.

Daraz Pakistan Launches Licensed E-Pharmacy To Expand Access To Authentic Medicines
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Daraz Pakistan Launches Licensed E-Pharmacy To Expand Access To Authentic Medicines

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Daraz Pakistan has launched a licensed e-pharmacy, giving customers a new online channel to purchase authentic over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins and healthcare essentials. The service was launched in Karachi on August 18, 2026, and is operated through Daraz’s licensed pharmacy facility. The company says medicines are sourced, stored and dispensed in line with applicable regulatory requirements. The launch represents Daraz’s expansion into an essential category while also marking a significant development in Pakistan’s growing digital healthcare ecosystem. More Than 450 Healthcare Products Available At launch, the e-pharmacy offers more than 450 products from over 20 pharmaceutical and healthcare brands. The initial lineup includes products from brands such as Haleon, Getz Pharma, Abbott, AGP, Nature’s Bounty, Route2Health and Searle. The assortment covers DRAP-registered OTC medicines, vitamins, supplements and other healthcare products sourced through authorised channels. Customers can place orders through the Daraz app, with deliveries available across cities currently served by the platform. The company says orders are expected to reach customers within one to three days. Pharmacist-Supervised Online Pharmacy A key feature of the new service is its professional oversight. Daraz says the e-pharmacy is supported by qualified pharmacists, while dedicated processes have been introduced for handling and fulfilling pharmaceutical orders. Medicines are stored securely, carefully packaged and transported through designated delivery channels designed to help maintain product condition during transportation. This approach is particularly important for an online pharmacy because customers expect the same level of authenticity, storage standards and professional oversight associated with conventional pharmacies. Daraz Brings Pharmaceutical Brands Together To support the launch, Daraz Pakistan organised its first national e-pharmacy conference, bringing together pharmaceutical executives, healthcare entrepreneurs, pharmacists, industry representatives and other stakeholders. The conference focused on several issues affecting Pakistan’s digital healthcare sector, including the future of e-pharmacy, innovation, regulatory compliance and the evolving role of pharmacists. The event also included discussions around developing a stronger digital healthcare ecosystem in Pakistan. Mr. Shehryar Memon, Coordinator, Emergency Operations Center for Polio Eradication & Immunization, also attended the conference. Daraz Signs MoUs With 10 Pharmaceutical Partners As part of the initiative, Daraz signed MoUs with 10 leading pharmaceutical partners. The agreements are aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas including medicine authenticity, digital access and responsible fulfilment. Greater collaboration between e-commerce platforms and pharmaceutical companies could help improve consumer confidence in online medicine purchases while creating more structured digital channels for healthcare products. Daraz Emphasises Authenticity And Compliance Daraz Pakistan Managing Director Ben Yi said consumers should be able to access authentic medicines conveniently while retaining the professional safeguards expected from a pharmacy. The company says its e-pharmacy brings together qualified pharmacists, established pharmaceutical brands and Daraz’s logistics infrastructure to create a more dependable online pharmacy experience. The company also stressed that responsible development of the e-pharmacy sector will require continued attention to trust, compliance and consumer access. Digital Healthcare Market Continues To Evolve The launch comes as Pakistan’s consumers increasingly use digital platforms for essential goods and services. Online access to healthcare products could offer greater convenience to customers, particularly those who prefer home delivery or have limited access to established pharmacies in their immediate areas. For pharmaceutical companies, e-commerce platforms can also provide an additional channel for reaching consumers through authorised distribution networks. However, the success of digital pharmacy services will depend heavily on maintaining product authenticity, regulatory compliance, responsible fulfilment and consumer trust. Dedicated Pharmaceutical Fulfilment Processes Unlike ordinary e-commerce products, medicines require careful handling throughout the fulfilment process. Daraz says its e-pharmacy uses dedicated procedures for pharmaceutical products, including secure storage and careful packaging. The products are then transported through delivery channels intended to protect their condition until they reach customers. Such processes could become increasingly important as Daraz expands its healthcare assortment and handles a larger volume of pharmaceutical orders. Daraz Plans To Expand E-Pharmacy Assortment The company plans to increase the range of products available through its e-pharmacy over time. Daraz also intends to deepen its collaboration with pharmaceutical partners as the category develops. The expansion could eventually give consumers access to a broader range of healthcare essentials through a single digital platform. For the pharmaceutical industry, meanwhile, deeper engagement with e-commerce could accelerate the development of digital distribution channels in Pakistan. What Daraz’s E-Pharmacy Means For Pakistan Daraz’s entry into licensed online pharmacy services marks a notable development in Pakistan’s e-commerce and healthcare sectors. With more than 450 initial products, over 20 participating brands and pharmacist-supervised operations, the platform is attempting to address one of the biggest concerns surrounding online medicine purchases: trust. The partnership model with pharmaceutical companies could also help strengthen authenticity and responsible fulfilment. The bigger test will be whether Daraz can maintain high compliance standards as it scales the service, while continuing to provide reliable delivery and expanding access to genuine healthcare products. A New Chapter For Digital Healthcare The launch of Daraz Pakistan’s licensed e-pharmacy highlights how e-commerce is expanding beyond conventional retail into essential services. By combining pharmaceutical partnerships, pharmacist oversight and an established logistics network, Daraz is positioning its e-pharmacy as part of Pakistan’s developing digital healthcare infrastructure. As the service expands, authenticity, compliance, professional supervision and safe fulfilment will remain central to building consumer confidence. If these standards are maintained, online pharmacy services could become an increasingly important part of how Pakistani consumers access everyday healthcare products.

Globe Residency REIT Declares Cash Dividend of PKR 4.00 Per Unit (40%) for FY26
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Globe Residency REIT Declares Cash Dividend of PKR 4.00 Per Unit (40%) for FY26

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August 20, Karachi: Globe Residency REIT (GRR), South Asia’s first listed developmental REIT, managed by Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Limited, today announced a cash dividend of PKR 4.00 per unit (40%) for the year ended June 30, 2026. This marks GRR’s fourth consecutive annual payout since its listing, following distributions of PKR 3.50 per unit (35%) in FY2025, PKR 1.75 per unit (17.5%) in FY2024, and PKR 3.00 per unit (30%) in FY2023. GRR was listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange in December 2022 at an offer price of PKR 10 per unit, making it Pakistan’s first, and South Asia’s first, listed developmental REIT. The underlying project, Globe Residency Apartments, comprises nine towers within Naya Nazimabad, Karachi.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif's Message on World Humanitarian Day 19 August 2026
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Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s Message on World Humanitarian Day 19 August 2026

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On World Humanitarian Day, Pakistan joins the international community in reaffirming its commitment to the noble values of humanitarian service, compassion, human dignity and solidarity.Pakistan also pays tribute to all humanitarian workers, institutions and organizations that dedicate their lives to the higher cause of serving humanity and advancing human welfare. World Humanitarian Day is observed every year in memory of the 22 humanitarian workers who lost their lives in the bombing of the United Nations compound in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2003. The day honours the sacrifices,the courage and selflessness of humanitarian workers serving in the areas affected by crises and disasters. It is a matter of great pride for us that Pakistan is among those countries that have consistently demonstrated compassion for humanity at the international level and translated this commitment into meaningful action. Pakistan’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions has always been significant and commendable. Pakistan has a long and proud tradition of standing in solidarity with and extending support to those in need within the international community. Our nation has demonstrated generosity, steadfastness and compassion through decades of hosting millions of Afghan refugees and providing assistance during humanitarian crises at the regional and global levels. This enduring spirit of humanity, hospitality and mutual support is a true reflection of our national character.At the domestic level, our constitutional values and national traditions likewise embody our humanitarian ethos. The protection of the rights and dignity of vulnerable and marginalized segments of society remains among the foremost priorities of the Government of Pakistan. Through effective measures, the Government is striving to build an inclusive, equitable and empowered society providing individual with equal access to opportunities without discrimination on the basis of colour or race. Over the past year, the Ministry of Human Rights has translated policy commitments into meaningful actions through a network of welfare centres, training institutions and protection facilities. In this regard, the Ministry of Human Rights is undertaking measures to promote social inclusion of Special persons as well as to ensure their access to essential civic services and facilities.The Government is also taking special measures to promote women’s participation in the social and economic spheres, enabling the full potential of humanity to be harnessed without discrimination on the basis of gender. At the grassroots level, the protection of vulnerable and marginalized segments of society, promotion of gender equality, protection of children and empowerment of young people are essential steps for advancing human rights, social justice and social welfare. On this World Humanitarian Day, Pakistan reaffirms its national commitment to remain guided by its constitutional values and to stand firmly for the highest ideals of humanity in times of peace as well as in times of crisis. We will continue to strive to ensure that vulnerable segments of society receive the protection and support they deserve and have opportunities to live with dignity.

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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