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K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption: Govt Relieves Karachi & Hyderabad from Peak Hour Power Cuts
Editor pick, Pakistan

K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption: Govt Relieves Karachi & Hyderabad from Peak Hour Power Cuts

The K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption has brought significant relief to electricity consumers in Karachi and Hyderabad after the federal government decided not to apply its newly announced peak-hour power outage schedule in these regions. The move comes amid efforts to manage rising electricity demand nationwide while minimizing inconvenience where cheaper power supply is available. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/saudi-arabia-3-billion-deposit-pakistan-major-support-for-external-financing/ Earlier, authorities had unveiled a nationwide load management plan aimed at controlling electricity demand during peak evening hours. Under this strategy, consumers across the country were expected to face around two hours and fifteen minutes of daily power outages between 5pm and 1am. The initiative, described as a peak relief strategy, was designed to reduce stress on the national grid during periods of high consumption. However, the situation changed when the Power Division issued a clarification stating that the K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption would apply to consumers served by these two distribution companies. Why the K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption Was Granted The main reason behind the K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption is the comparatively lower dependence of both utilities on furnace oil-based electricity generation. Furnace oil power plants are significantly more expensive to run and often contribute to higher electricity costs and supply constraints. Instead, K-Electric and Hyderabad Electric Supply Company are currently benefiting from adequate availability of lower-cost electricity generated in the southern region. This includes power sourced from more economical generation options, which helps maintain a steady supply without requiring additional load management. Because of this improved supply situation, authorities concluded that imposing scheduled power outages would unnecessarily burden consumers in these areas. How the Nationwide Loadshedding Plan Works The nationwide plan was designed to balance electricity demand during peak evening hours. Under this framework: • Power outages were expected between 5pm and 1am• Each affected area would face approximately 2.25 hours of loadshedding daily• The objective was to reduce peak demand pressure on the grid• The strategy aimed to prevent large-scale outages by managing consumption However, due to the K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption, consumers in Karachi and Hyderabad will not experience these planned interruptions. Impact of the K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption on Consumers The exemption is particularly important for households, businesses, and industries in Karachi and Hyderabad. These cities already face economic pressures, and uninterrupted power supply during evening hours can help: • Improve business productivity during peak shopping times• Support industrial operations without disruption• Reduce reliance on costly backup generators• Enhance comfort for households during hot weather For small traders and shopkeepers, uninterrupted electricity in the evening can directly impact sales. Similarly, industries benefit from consistent power supply, which helps maintain production schedules. Southern Region Power Supply Advantage The Power Division emphasized that sufficient cheaper electricity is available in the southern networks and is being consumed locally. This localized utilization of available supply is a key factor behind the K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption. By using electricity generated within the region, transmission losses are also reduced. This improves efficiency and lowers overall system costs. As a result, consumers in these areas are less likely to face power shortages compared to regions heavily dependent on expensive generation sources. What This Means for Pakistan’s Power Management Strategy The K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption reflects a targeted approach to load management. Instead of implementing uniform outages across the country, authorities are adjusting policies based on regional supply conditions. This selective strategy could serve as a model for future power distribution planning, where areas with stable and economical supply are spared from unnecessary outages. It also highlights the importance of improving generation mix and regional power availability to reduce reliance on costly fuels. The K-Electric HESCO Loadshedding Exemption offers welcome relief for Karachi and Hyderabad residents, sparing them from planned peak-hour power cuts. The decision underscores the benefits of access to cheaper electricity in the southern region and demonstrates a more flexible approach to national load management. As electricity demand continues to grow, such targeted policies may become increasingly important for balancing supply while minimizing inconvenience to consumers.

Power loadshedding in Pakistan rises amid hydropower drop and fuel cost surge
Editor pick, Pakistan

Power loadshedding in Pakistan rises amid hydropower drop and fuel cost surge

Power loadshedding in Pakistan has increased as the government moves to manage electricity shortfalls without placing additional financial pressure on consumers. Officials confirmed that outages of up to three hours are being implemented, mainly during nighttime peak demand. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/dollars-seven-day-losing-streak-deepens-amid-iran-tensions-and-diplomatic-hopes/ Authorities say the decision reflects a generation gap of around 2,000 to 2,500 megawatts. This shortfall has emerged due to reduced hydropower output and limited generation from RLNG-based power plants. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges within Pakistan’s energy sector as supply struggles to meet demand. Government opts for controlled outages Officials stated that there is no shortage in installed generation capacity. However, the issue lies in fuel availability and cost management. Therefore, the government has opted for controlled power loadshedding in Pakistan to balance supply and demand. A high-level committee led by Muhammad Aurangzeb is closely monitoring the situation. The committee has reviewed the energy outlook and endorsed limited load management to prevent further financial strain. Sources within the committee revealed that average outages currently stand at around 2.25 hours. These outages mainly occur at night. The strategy aims to reduce reliance on expensive furnace oil and control the Fuel Charges Adjustment (FCA) passed on to consumers. Decline in hydropower generation intensifies crisis Hydropower generation has dropped significantly due to reduced water releases from reservoirs. This decline has become a key factor behind power loadshedding in Pakistan. Data from Water and Power Development Authority shows that water inflows remain lower than expected. At Tarbela Dam, inflows stood at 20,200 cusecs, while outflows were recorded at 8,000 cusecs. Similarly, Mangla Dam reported inflows of 29,100 cusecs and outflows of 8,000 cusecs. Water levels remain above minimum operating thresholds. However, provinces have not submitted sufficient water demands, also known as indents. This situation has restricted water releases for power generation. Experts say ongoing rains and the harvesting season have influenced water usage decisions. Farmers have prioritized crop protection, which has indirectly reduced water availability for hydropower. Reservoir levels remain stable but underutilised At Tarbela, the current water level stands at 1,465.62 feet. This is above the minimum operating level of 1,402 feet but below the maximum conservation level of 1,550 feet. Live storage is recorded at 1.526 million acre-feet. Mangla Dam shows a similar trend. Its water level stands at 1,156.90 feet, above the minimum level of 1,050 feet. However, it remains below the maximum capacity of 1,242 feet. Live storage at Mangla is currently 1.989 million acre-feet. Despite adequate storage, limited water releases have constrained hydropower generation. This imbalance has contributed directly to power loadshedding in Pakistan. RLNG shortage worsens power generation gap The shortage of RLNG supply has further deepened the crisis. RLNG-based power plants play a crucial role in meeting demand, especially during peak hours. However, limited gas availability has reduced their output. Officials revealed that the power sector requires around 300 to 350 MMCFD of RLNG. However, supply from Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited remains significantly lower. On March 14, allocation stood at about 130 MMCFD. This supply was limited to just one power plant. Later in March, gas availability dropped further to around 85 MMCFD. Currently, it hovers near 80 MMCFD, far below demand. This gap has forced authorities to rely on alternative fuels. However, these alternatives come at a much higher cost. Furnace oil prices surge sharply The cost of furnace oil has doubled in recent months. Prices have surged from around Rs200,000 per ton in February 2026 to nearly Rs400,000 per ton. This sharp increase has made power generation significantly more expensive. Officials aim to avoid excessive use of furnace oil. Therefore, controlled outages have become a preferred option. This approach helps limit the financial impact on consumers while maintaining system stability. However, analysts warn that prolonged reliance on load management could affect economic activity. Businesses and households already face challenges due to inconsistent power supply. Impact on consumers and fuel charges Consumers are expected to face higher electricity costs in the coming months. Sources indicate a positive Fuel Charges Adjustment of more than Rs2 per unit for March 2026. This increase reflects higher generation costs due to expensive fuel and reduced hydropower output. As a result, power loadshedding in Pakistan not only affects supply but also adds financial pressure on consumers. Experts believe that managing both supply and cost will remain a delicate balance for policymakers. Any further disruption in fuel supply or water availability could worsen the situation. Key power plants affected by RLNG shortage Pakistan relies on several major RLNG-based power plants to bridge electricity demand. These plants were established between 2015 and 2018 to address chronic shortages. The Bhikki Power Plant has a capacity of 1,180 megawatts. The Haveli Bahadur Shah Power Plant produces 1,230 megawatts. Meanwhile, the Balloki Power Plant contributes 1,223 megawatts. Currently, these plants are operating below capacity due to limited gas supply. This underutilisation has significantly contributed to the overall generation shortfall. Outlook for the energy sector The current situation highlights structural challenges in Pakistan’s energy sector. While installed capacity remains sufficient, fuel constraints and resource management issues continue to disrupt supply. Officials hope that improved water inflows and better gas allocation will ease the crisis in the coming weeks. However, uncertainties remain, particularly regarding fuel prices and seasonal demand fluctuations. In the meantime, controlled power loadshedding in Pakistan is likely to continue as a short-term solution. Policymakers must balance affordability, reliability, and sustainability to stabilize the system. Conclusion Power loadshedding in Pakistan reflects deeper issues within the energy supply chain. Reduced hydropower generation, limited RLNG availability, and rising fuel costs have combined to create a challenging situation. While the government aims to protect consumers from excessive costs, the strategy comes with trade-offs. As the country navigates these challenges, long-term reforms in energy planning and resource management will be essential.

Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers Receive Global Recognition for Handling Rising Air Traffic Pressure
Editor pick, Politics

Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers Receive Global Recognition for Handling Rising Air Traffic Pressure

Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers have earned international appreciation after demonstrating exceptional professionalism during a period of increased regional airspace pressure. The acknowledgment came from the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations, which praised Pakistan’s aviation professionals for maintaining operational excellence despite a surge in unplanned air traffic. The recognition highlights the growing importance of Pakistan’s airspace in regional aviation and the ability of local controllers to manage complex operations under challenging geopolitical circumstances. Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers Managed Rising Air Traffic Efficiently Due to evolving geopolitical conditions in the region, airlines increasingly used Pakistan’s airspace as an alternative route. This shift led to a noticeable increase in overflight traffic, including unscheduled and diverted flights. Despite the sudden operational burden, Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers ensured that air navigation services remained safe and efficient. The international aviation body noted that Pakistani controllers handled unexpected flight volumes with remarkable coordination. Their performance demonstrated strong operational planning, communication, and adherence to global safety standards. Maintaining Safety Standards Under Pressure Even during peak workload periods, Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers maintained strict safety protocols. Controllers worked extended duty hours and handled complex airspace management requirements without compromising safety or efficiency. This operational success reflects the strength of Pakistan’s air traffic management system. Aviation experts believe that maintaining consistent safety levels during high traffic density is one of the most demanding aspects of air traffic control, and Pakistan’s performance in this regard received global acknowledgment. Effective Handling of Unscheduled Flights The increase in non-scheduled flights posed an additional challenge. Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers coordinated closely with airlines and relevant aviation authorities to manage flight sequencing, routing adjustments, and airspace capacity. Their quick decision-making ensured minimal delays and uninterrupted operations. The international federation also highlighted that the controllers demonstrated resilience and professionalism while dealing with operational complexity. This included managing route diversions, altitude changes, and high communication volumes. Support from Relevant Ministries Appreciated The international body also appreciated the cooperation of relevant Pakistani ministries and aviation authorities. Institutional coordination played a key role in enabling Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers to perform effectively. Collaborative efforts helped ensure smooth airspace management during a demanding operational phase. Industry observers believe this recognition enhances Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable aviation transit hub. With increasing regional air traffic, Pakistan’s airspace is becoming strategically important for international airlines seeking efficient routes. Growing Importance of Pakistan’s Airspace The acknowledgment signals that Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure and workforce are capable of handling rising global demands. Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers have demonstrated their ability to manage increased traffic while maintaining international standards. Aviation analysts suggest that continued investment in training, technology, and coordination will further strengthen Pakistan’s position in global aviation. The recent recognition may also encourage more airlines to utilize Pakistan’s airspace for transit operations. Pakistan Air Traffic Controllers have received well-deserved global recognition for their professionalism, resilience, and operational excellence. Their ability to manage increased air traffic, ensure safety, and maintain efficiency during challenging conditions reflects the growing capability of Pakistan’s aviation sector. This achievement not only highlights the dedication of aviation professionals but also enhances Pakistan’s standing in international air navigation services.

Pakistan Unveils $1 Billion AI Push to Power Next-Gen Digital Infrastructure
Editor pick, Tech

Pakistan Unveils $1 Billion AI Push to Power Next-Gen Digital Infrastructure

Pakistan has announced a landmark $1 billion investment in artificial intelligence, signaling a decisive move to strengthen its digital backbone and accelerate technological progress across the country. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/oil-tankers-reroute-at-last-minute-as-us-moves-to-block-iran-sea-routes/ The initiative, led by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, will initially focus on building high-performance computing capacity, including advanced GPUs essential for developing and running modern AI systems. These resources will be made accessible to startups, businesses, and researchers to drive innovation and expand AI adoption across multiple sectors. Managed through the Ignite National Technology Fund, the program aims to lower barriers to entry by offering affordable access to cutting-edge computing infrastructure. This is expected to empower both emerging and established players in Pakistan’s tech ecosystem. Officials emphasize that the initiative is designed to boost research, enhance industrial competitiveness, and position Pakistan as a serious contender in the global AI landscape. By investing in foundational infrastructure, the government hopes to unlock new opportunities in innovation, economic growth, and digital transformation. Overall, the move reflects a broader national strategy to transition toward a knowledge-based economy, where AI-driven capabilities play a central role in shaping future industries.

Pakistan Deploys Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Under Defence Pact
Editor pick, World

Pakistan Deploys Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Under Defence Pact

Pakistan has sent a small number of fighter and support jets to Saudi Arabia, marking the first visible military step under a mutual defence pact signed in September 2025. The aircraft landed at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province on Saturday, according to the Saudi Ministry of Defence, according to Aljazeera. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/google-and-pakistan-government-launch-ai-seekho-2026-to-train-youth-in-vibe-coding-and-ai-skills/ This deployment comes as Pakistan hosts sensitive ceasefire talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, aimed at ending weeks of regional conflict that began after Iran’s missile and drone strikes on US targets in Gulf states. First Visible Move Under 2025 Pact The mutual defence agreement, signed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Riyadh, commits both nations to treat an attack on one as an attack on the other. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had earlier warned Iranian leaders that Islamabad would honour its obligations to Saudi Arabia. Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Riyadh in early March to discuss ways to stop Iranian strikes. Just days before the jets arrived, Sharif spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and pledged that Pakistan would stand “shoulder to shoulder” with the kingdom. Analysts describe the move as largely symbolic. Imtiaz Gul noted that “three jets won’t make much of a difference militarily” given Saudi Arabia’s large air force, but it sends a clear message to Iran about Pakistan’s commitments. Timing Raises Questions in Regional Tensions The deployment occurs against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire. Iran has continued attacks on Saudi targets, including key bases. Meanwhile, Pakistan is trying to mediate between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia also agreed to speed up a promised $5 billion Saudi investment package for Pakistan’s economy. On Saturday, Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan met Sharif in Islamabad alongside Dar and Munir. Saudi Arabia remains a major economic partner for Pakistan, hosting over 2.5 million Pakistani workers whose remittances are vital. The move highlights the close defence and economic ties between the two countries while Islamabad navigates complex regional diplomacy.

US Dollar Rises as Iran Tensions Shake Global Currency Markets
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US Dollar Rises as Iran Tensions Shake Global Currency Markets

The US dollar strengthened in early Asian trading on Monday as global markets reacted to rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. Investors moved quickly toward safe haven assets after peace talks between the United States and Iran collapsed. The United States signaled a major escalation in the conflict. The move pushed traders to shift away from riskier currencies and into the US dollar. Market analysts described the early trading session as thin but decisive. They noted a clear risk off sentiment across global foreign exchange markets. US Dollar Climbs as Hormuz Blockade Fears Intensify US President Donald Trump announced that the US Navy would begin blockading the Strait of Hormuz. This development followed failed negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The blockade targets Iranian ports and threatens to disrupt global oil supply routes. As a result, investors reacted swiftly by increasing their exposure to the US dollar. The United States Central Command confirmed that operations would begin at 10 a.m. ET. This announcement further intensified uncertainty in global markets. US Dollar Pressures Major Global Currencies The surge in the US dollar weighed heavily on other major currencies. The euro slipped 0.3 percent to 1.1684 against the dollar. The British pound also declined by 0.5 percent to 1.3398. Meanwhile, risk sensitive currencies saw sharper declines. The Australian dollar dropped 0.6 percent to 0.7030. The New Zealand dollar fell 0.4 percent to 0.5816. These movements reflect growing caution among investors. They are moving away from higher risk currencies amid rising geopolitical uncertainty. US Dollar Index Holds Near Recent Highs The US Dollar Index remained steady at 99.056. This level is close to its highest point since early April. The index tracks the strength of the US dollar against a basket of major currencies. Its stability signals continued demand for the dollar despite market volatility. Analysts from Westpac noted that the dollar rally reflects broader risk aversion. They highlighted that geopolitical developments are driving market sentiment more than economic data. Hungarian Forint Surges After Political Shift In contrast to the broader market trend, the Hungarian forint posted strong gains. The currency rallied sharply after a major political shift in Hungary. Veteran leader Viktor Orbán lost power following national elections. The result boosted investor confidence in Hungary’s economic outlook. The forint surged as much as 1.8 percent against the dollar. It reached its strongest level since January. Against the euro, it gained 2.2 percent and hit a four year high. Analysts from Goldman Sachs said markets reacted positively to the election outcome. They noted that the result could unlock European Union funding for Hungary. EU Funding Expectations Support Hungarian Assets Market participants expect faster release of European Union funds to Hungary. These funds form a significant part of the country’s economic framework. Analysts estimate that EU funding accounts for about 3 percent of Hungary’s GDP each year. Nearly half of these funds had remained frozen under previous political conditions. The expected release of funds has boosted investor sentiment. It has also strengthened the forint despite broader global uncertainty. US Dollar Gains Against Yen as Bond Yields Rise The US dollar also strengthened against the Japanese yen. It rose 0.4 percent to 159.83 yen during trading. At the same time, Japan’s benchmark 10 year government bond yield climbed sharply. It increased by 5.5 basis points to 2.49 percent. This marks its highest level in nearly three decades. Higher bond yields often support currency strength. In this case, the dollar continued to gain as investors sought safety and returns. Global Markets Brace for Continued Volatility The rise of the US dollar reflects deeper concerns about geopolitical stability and global economic risks. Investors remain cautious as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate. Currency markets are likely to remain volatile in the coming days. Much will depend on developments in the Middle East and the response of global powers. For now, the US dollar continues to dominate as the preferred safe haven asset. Its strength signals a broader shift in investor sentiment as uncertainty grips global markets.

BingX Futures Grid Expands to Gold, Silver, and Oil, Bringing Automated Precision to Macro Trading
Editor pick, Tech

BingX Futures Grid Expands to Gold, Silver, and Oil, Bringing Automated Precision to Macro Trading

Pakistan, April 11, 2026 – BingX, a leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3-AI company, today announced the expansion of its futures grid trading feature to include TradFi assets Gold, Silver, and Oil. This update enhances the range of instruments available within BingX’s automated trading tools, enabling users to apply systematic strategies to key macro assets directly on the BingX app. With the addition of these commodities, BingX continues to strengthen its rapidly growing TradFi suite, currently supporting over 100 TradFi assets. Fully integrated across the BingX ecosystem, including futures, spot, copy trading, and BingX AI, BingX TradFi provides users with seamless access to commodities, forex, stocks, and indices within a unified trading environment. By embedding TradFi assets into familiar tools such as grid trading, BingX lowers the barrier for users to diversify strategies and engage with global markets without switching platforms or workflows.

World Bank cuts Pakistan growth outlook to 3% amid Israel-US war on Iran
Editor pick, Pakistan

World Bank cuts Pakistan growth outlook to 3% amid Israel-US war on Iran

ISLAMABAD:The World Bank has revised Pakistan’s economic growth forecast downward to 3% for the current fiscal year, citing the adverse spillover effects of escalating tensions in the Middle East. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/netanyahu-signals-war-with-iran-unfinished-business-despite-pak-mediated-ceasefire-backed-by-us/ War-driven economic pressures The lender reduced its earlier projection by 0.4 percentage points, warning that the ongoing regional conflict is likely to dampen Pakistan’s economic recovery. According to the report, higher global oil and energy prices triggered by the conflict are increasing import costs and adding pressure on the country’s external account. Pakistan’s current account is now projected to shift into a deficit of 1.2% of GDP, equivalent to around $4.9 billion, significantly higher than earlier official estimates. Inflation, remittances and fiscal risks The report also highlighted rising inflationary risks, projecting inflation at around 7.4% due to higher energy and commodity prices. Elevated fertiliser costs may further strain agricultural output, potentially leading to increased food prices in the coming months. Additionally, remittance inflows from Gulf countries could weaken as oil-dependent economies adjust to changing conditions, further impacting Pakistan’s external position. The World Bank warned that sustained high energy prices could force central banks to keep interest rates elevated for longer, slowing economic activity. Despite these challenges, GDP per capita is expected to grow modestly by 1.4%, indicating limited improvement in living standards. The downgrade underscores growing vulnerability in Pakistan’s economy as global uncertainties, particularly geopolitical tensions, continue to reshape macroeconomic prospects.

Bank Alfalah Stock Split: PSX Announces Share Face Value Change and Trading Schedule Update
Editor pick, Pakistan

Bank Alfalah Stock Split: PSX Announces Share Face Value Change and Trading Schedule Update

The Bank Alfalah Stock Split has been formally announced through a Pakistan Stock Exchange notice, outlining key changes in share face value, settlement cycles, and trading mechanics. The development is expected to impact trading behavior and liquidity while keeping the overall paid-up capital unchanged. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/chery-master-pakistan-starts-early-deliveries-of-tiggo-8-phev/ Under the corporate action, the face value of Bank Alfalah Limited shares will be reduced from Rs10 to Rs5. This change will take effect following the book closure scheduled for April 18, 2026. While such adjustments are technical in nature, they often attract investor attention because they increase the number of shares in circulation and improve accessibility for retail investors. Bank Alfalah Stock Split and Share Structure Adjustment The Bank Alfalah Stock Split will double the number of outstanding shares. The total shares will increase from 1.57 billion to approximately 3.15 billion. Despite this increase, the paid-up capital of the bank will remain unchanged. This means shareholders will receive twice the number of shares they previously held, but the price per share will adjust accordingly. The opening price on April 20, 2026, will be calculated at half of the closing price recorded on April 17, 2026. For example, if the share closes at Rs60 on April 17, the adjusted opening price after the split would be Rs30. Investors will still hold the same overall investment value, but the lower price per share often improves market participation. Settlement Cycle Changes During Bank Alfalah Stock Split The Pakistan Stock Exchange has also announced temporary changes to settlement cycles due to the Bank Alfalah Stock Split. Trading in Bank Alfalah shares will operate under a modified T+0 settlement cycle on April 17, 2026. This adjustment applies to BC-1 activity and ensures a smooth transition before the book closure. From April 20, 2026, which is the first working day after book closure, the normal T+1 settlement cycle will resume. However, shares will then reflect the revised face value and adjusted pricing structure. These temporary changes are designed to avoid settlement mismatches and ensure fair trading conditions for investors. Entitlement Contracts and Ex-Entitlement Trading The Bank Alfalah Stock Split also affects entitlement contracts across multiple months. Contracts such as APRB, MAYB, and JUN will follow a defined schedule for opening, closing, and settlement dates. These contracts will qualify for entitlement benefits. On the other hand, ex-entitlement contracts including APRC, MAYC, and JUNB will operate on separate timelines. Trades under these contracts will not qualify for entitlement benefits and will be executed on an ex-benefit basis. This differentiation is important for traders dealing in futures or derivative contracts, as eligibility for benefits depends on contract type and trading timeline. Impact on Futures and Non-Standard Contracts As part of the Bank Alfalah Stock Split, the stock will transition into non-standardized contract categories within the Cash Settled Futures framework. These categories include CAPRN2, CMAYN2, and CJUNN1 contracts effective April 20, 2026. Despite these technical adjustments, the broader trading and settlement framework of the exchange will remain unchanged. Investors can continue trading normally after the transition period. Why the Bank Alfalah Stock Split Matters The Bank Alfalah Stock Split is primarily aimed at improving liquidity and making shares more accessible to retail investors. Lower share prices often encourage higher trading volumes and broaden participation in the market. Historically, stock splits do not change a company’s fundamental value. However, they often create positive sentiment, particularly among small investors who find lower-priced shares easier to accumulate. For institutional investors, the adjustment mainly involves operational changes in settlement and contract specifications rather than any change in valuation. Key Takeaways for Investors Investors should note that the Bank Alfalah Stock Split will: • Reduce face value from Rs10 to Rs5• Double the number of outstanding shares• Adjust the opening price after book closure• Temporarily modify settlement cycles• Introduce new contract specifications for futures trading These changes are technical but important for traders, especially those dealing in short-term strategies or derivatives.

Chery Master Pakistan Starts Early Deliveries of Tiggo 8 PHEV
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Chery Master Pakistan Starts Early Deliveries of Tiggo 8 PHEV

KARACHI: April 10: Chery Master Pakistan has commenced deliveries of its Tiggo 8 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) to pre-registered customers, as per the April 2026 delivery timeline, the company said on Friday. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-oil-gas-sector-reports-three-discoveries-in-march-2026-amid-isreal-us-war-on-iran/ The Tiggo 8 PHEV was opened for advance bookings in January 2026 at an introductory price of Rs10,999,000 but following the strong demand, the price was revised to Rs11,299,000 effective February 1, 2026. The early rollout marks a key milestone for Chery Master Pakistan, reflecting execution on committed delivery timelines and readiness across production, supply chain, and aftersales infrastructure. The company said the deliveries are aligned with its “HELLO CHERY” customer-first approach, focused on technology-led ownership and service readiness from day one. Positioned as Pakistan’s only 7-seater plug-in hybrid in the D-SUV segment, the Tiggo 8 PHEV is powered by Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology. The vehicle produces 496 horsepower and 735 Nm of torque, offering an electric-only range of up to 90 kilometres and a combined driving range of approximately 1,200 kilometres. The SUV integrates a range of premium and technology features, including a three-row cabin configuration, advanced infotainment system, and Sony sound system. Interior highlights include a “Queen Co-Pilot” zero-gravity passenger seat with massage functionality, heating and ventilation options, and a cabin with 78.9% soft-wrap materials. A driver-focused audio system is also included. On safety, the Tiggo 8 PHEV carries a five-star global safety rating and is equipped with 10 airbags along with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), positioning it among the more feature-rich offerings in its category. To support deliveries, the company has established a nationwide 3S dealership network comprising 10 operational outlets, with plans to expand to 20 locations by 2027. Chery entered the Pakistani market through a partnership with Master Auto Engineering, part of the Master Group, which has over six decades of manufacturing experience in the country. The collaboration agreement was signed in May 2025.Globally, Chery operates in more than 120 countries with a user base exceeding 18.5 million and has remained China’s largest automobile exporter for 23 consecutive years. The early deliveries come as Pakistan’s auto market increasingly shifts towards hybrid and electrified mobility, driven by rising fuel costs and evolving consumer demand.

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