Business

Islamabad: easypaisa digital bank, Pakistan’s leading digital financial services platform and digital bank, is proud to support the Government of Pakistan in the implementation of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s Fuel Package 2026, enabling fast, secure, and transparent disbursement of financial assistance to millions of eligible citizens nationwide. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-cement-sector-profitability-set-to-decline-7-yoy-in-3qfy26-amid-absence-of-key-dividend-income/ easypaisa is the first digital wallet to facilitate the transfer of the first batch to trucks successfully. This will be followed by tank lorries, buses, and motorcycles. As part of this initiative aimed at providing relief amid rising fuel costs, easypaisa has played a pivotal role in digitizing subsidy distribution. Under the initiative, easypaisa disbursed PKR 1.2 billion to over 32,000 beneficiaries, including operators of buses, trucks, long-haul vehicles, and delivery vans. Leveraging its extensive digital payments infrastructure and vast network of users and agents, easypaisa has ensured that beneficiaries can conveniently receive and access funds without the need for long queues or complex procedures. Through its robust mobile wallet ecosystem, easypaisa facilitates real-time transfers directly to beneficiaries, enhancing financial inclusion and reducing dependency on traditional cash-based systems. The platform’s secure and user-friendly interface allows recipients to easily withdraw funds, pay bills, or make purchases digitally. “We are honored to partner with the Government of Pakistan in delivering timely financial relief to citizens,” said Jahanzeb Khan, President & Chief Executive Officer, easypaisa digital bank. “Our mission has always been to relentlessly simplify and secure access to financial services, unlocking opportunities and empowering all Pakistanis. This initiative reflects the impact digital banks, like easypaisa, can have in driving efficiency and transparency in public welfare programs.” Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, said, “Digital payments are a key pillar of Pakistan’s modern financial system, enabling transparency, efficiency, and inclusion at scale. Platforms like easypaisa are playing a vital role in ensuring that government support reaches citizens quickly and securely. Under the digital nation vision of the Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan, digital finance can directly improve lives while advancing our vision of a cashless and digitally empowered Pakistan.” easypaisa’s role in Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s Fuel Package 2026 underscores its commitment to supporting national initiatives, financial inclusion, and strengthening Pakistan’s digital economy. By ensuring accurate targeting and minimizing leakages, the platform contributes to a more accountable and efficient subsidy distribution process. With over 59 million registered users and a widespread agent network across urban and rural areas, easypaisa continues to be a trusted partner in advancing financial inclusion and enabling government-to-person (G2P) payments at scale.

Karachi: Topline Securities has projected a 7% year-on-year (YoY) decline in the profitability of Pakistan’s listed cement sector for the third quarter of fiscal year 2026 (3QFY26), with aggregate profits expected to reach approximately Rs21.1 billion. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-cement-sector-profitability-set-to-decline-7-yoy-in-3qfy26-amid-absence-of-key-dividend-income/ The downturn is primarily attributed to the absence of dividend income from Lucky Electric Power Company Limited (LEPCL), despite relatively stable operational performance in several key players. According to the brokerage house’s preview report released on April 7, 2026, the sector’s gross margins are likely to hold steady for many companies, supported by a healthy increase in cement dispatches. Total dispatches during the quarter are estimated to have risen 9% YoY to 12.48 million tons. This growth was driven by a robust 35% YoY surge in exports and a modest 4% YoY uptick in local dispatches. However, these volume gains were partially offset by elevated coal prices and lingering geopolitical tensions affecting input costs and supply chains. The sharp drop in “other income” remains the dominant drag on bottom-line figures. In previous quarters, dividend inflows—particularly from Lucky Electric—had significantly boosted consolidated earnings for major players like Lucky Cement. Their absence in 3QFY26 is expected to weigh heavily on sector-wide profitability, even as core cement operations show resilience. Company-specific estimates reveal a mixed picture. Lucky Cement is forecasted to post a strong 29% YoY rise in consolidated earnings per share (EPS) to Rs15.80, benefiting from diversified operations and operational efficiencies. Fauji Cement is anticipated to deliver an impressive 98% YoY jump in profitability, reflecting improved margins and higher volumes. In contrast, Kohat Cement may see a 7% YoY decline in earnings due to margin pressures from higher fuel costs and reduced other income. The broader industry context shows continued recovery in demand. Domestic construction activity and infrastructure projects have supported local sales, while export markets—particularly in the region—have provided an additional boost. Analysts note that stable retention prices and controlled finance costs (thanks to earlier monetary easing) have helped cushion some of the impact from rising coal and energy expenses. Looking ahead, the sector’s long-term outlook remains cautiously optimistic. With Pakistan’s economy showing signs of stabilization, analysts expect higher domestic dispatches in the coming quarters if construction activity rebounds post-Eid and government infrastructure spending accelerates. Declining international coal prices could further support margins. However, risks persist from volatile global energy markets, potential currency fluctuations, and any slowdown in export demand due to regional geopolitics. The cement sector, which accounts for a significant portion of the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s industrial index, continues to trade at attractive valuations relative to its production capacity and historical growth. Many stocks remain in “deep value” territory, with enterprise value per ton metrics drawing investor interest despite near-term earnings volatility. Overall, while 3QFY26 may reflect a temporary dip due to one-off factors like missing dividend income, the underlying demand drivers and operational improvements position the sector for a potential rebound in subsequent quarters. Investors are closely watching upcoming corporate announcements for confirmation of these trends and any guidance on full-year FY26 performance.

Season-long initiative introduces Binance Pay for merchandise access and offers fans exclusive opportunities to meet Islamabad United players Islamabad, Pakistan – 07 April, 2026 – Binance, the world’s leading global blockchain ecosystem and cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and users, today announced the expansion of its partnership with Islamabad United through the launch of a season-long fan engagement campaign. The initiative introduces Binance Pay within the campaign and offers supporters new ways to connect with the team. The initiative focuses on bringing the cricket community together through shared participation, inviting both new and existing users to take part in a structured, season-long campaign tied to Islamabad United’s matches. As part of this, users can participate in the $25,000 Powerplay Challenge, where they earn runs by inviting friends to join Binance and complete onboarding activities, with performance tracked on a leaderboard. Additional campaign activities are also available throughout the season, with more details found here. “At Binance, we are always looking for ways to bring digital innovation closer to everyday experiences,” said Tarik Erk, Regional Head for MENAT and Senior Executive Officer, Abu Dhabi. “Through our continued partnership with Islamabad United, this campaign is focused on creating meaningful and accessible ways for fans to engage with the team throughout the season.” Ahsan Latif, CEO  Islamabad United, added: “Our partnership with Binance continues to evolve in ways that put fans first. This initiative allows us to stay connected with our community and offer new experiences, even in a season where traditional access to the stadium is limited.” As part of the campaign, Binance Pay will be integrated into the fan experience, enabling supporters to access official Islamabad United merchandise through a seamless digital payments solution. Fans who use Binance Pay for merchandise purchases during the campaign will receive a 15% discount. Importantly, the campaign also introduces alternative ways for fans to engage with the team in light of ongoing stadium attendance restrictions. Top participants in the campaign will be rewarded with exclusive experiences, including opportunities to meet Islamabad United players. The campaign will run throughout the cricket season, with participation open to eligible users in Pakistan. About Binance Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 300 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means. For more information on Binance, visit: https://www.binance.com About Islamabad United Islamabad United is the most successful team of the Pakistan Super League (PSL); winner of the first, third and ninth seasons of the HBL PSL. The franchise believes in bringing change to Pakistani sports with the introduction of international standards of practice and a commitment to continuous progress. The company focuses on implementing a strategy built around the principle of 4 Es – Excellence, Empowerment, Education and Environment. https://www.binance.com/en-AE/activity/trading-competition/2026-powerplay?_dp=L3dlYnZpZXcvd2Vidmlldz90eXBlPWRlZmF1bHQmbmVlZER5bmFtaWM9dHJ1ZSZ1cmw9YUhSMGNITTZMeTkzZDNjdVltbHVZVzVqWlM1amIyMHZZV04wYVhacGRIa3ZkSEpoWkdsdVp5MWpiMjF3WlhScGRHbHZiaTh5TURJMkxYQnZkMlZ5Y0d4aGVR

Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has announced an interim extension for its Chief Executive Officer, Mohammad Khalid Rehman. This strategic move ensures stable leadership for the company while the search for a permanent CEO continues, reflecting a commitment to operational continuity during a critical transitional phase. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sazgar-engineering-works-limited-sazew-4-wheeler-sales-jump-84-yoy-in-march-2026/ The PPL Board of Directors approved the extension for Mr. Rehman, effective from April 10, 2026, until a new CEO is officially appointed. Mr. Rehman initially stepped into the CEO role in January, following the departure of Sikandar Ali Memon, with an initial three-month mandate that was set to provide immediate leadership during a period of change. His appointment came at a time when PPL was navigating various challenges in the energy sector, including market volatility and regulatory changes. With over three decades of experience both nationally and internationally, Mr. Rehman has a long history with PPL. He joined the company in 2009 and has served in various senior financial and planning capacities, including Chief Financial Officer since 2022. His extensive background in finance and strategic planning has been instrumental in guiding PPL through complex projects and financial landscapes. Under his leadership, the company has focused on enhancing operational efficiency, exploring new business opportunities, and advancing sustainability initiatives. In his interim role, Mr. Rehman has prioritized strengthening PPL’s core operations and fostering a culture of innovation. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration and transparency, which has resonated well with employees and stakeholders alike. The Board’s decision to extend his tenure underscores their confidence in his ability to lead the company effectively during this period of transition. As PPL continues its search for a permanent CEO, the company remains dedicated to maintaining its growth trajectory and delivering value to its shareholders. This extension not only highlights the Board’s commitment to stability but also reinforces PPL’s strategic vision in an evolving energy landscape, ensuring that the company remains well-positioned to tackle future challenges and opportunities.

Karachi, April 6: — Faysal Bank Limited (FBL) has launched Pakistan’s first-ever Mobile Tap and Withdraw service, enabling its customers to withdraw cash from Faysal Bank ATMs by simply tapping their smartphone, without the need of any physical card. With a clear focus on innovation, Faysal Bank aims to create a digital-inclusive and digital-first experience for it’s customers and by creating a 360 experience ecosystem the Bank is establishing its lead as a key innovator. Faysal Bank customers can digitize their Debit or Noor card via the Faysal Digibank mobile-app to enable their smart phones to access ATMs with a simple phone-tap, combining the security of tokenized digital credentials with the convenience of contactless technology. Internationally, cardless ATM withdrawals via mobile devices have gained considerable traction and now Faysal Bank becomes the first Bank in Pakistan to offer services at par with global trends. Faysal Bank Limited is one of Pakistan’s leading Islamic banks, offering a wide range of Shariah-compliant products and services across retail, corporate, and investment banking. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, FBL continues to provide its customers with exceptional banking experiences.