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SE Fruits and Vegetable Limited Opens IPO Subscription for General Public
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SE Fruits and Vegetable Limited Opens IPO Subscription for General Public

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Public subscription for the initial public offering (IPO) of SE Fruits and Vegetable Limited opened on September 28, 2026, and will continue through September 29, 2026. The company is offering shares to the general public at Rs 40 per share as it moves ahead with its listing process. Investors are required to submit applications electronically under the revised IPO subscription framework. SE Fruits IPO Opens at Rs 40 Per Share Shares of SE Fruits and Vegetable Limited are available to the general public at an issue price of Rs 40 per share. The minimum application size is 500 shares, requiring an investment of Rs 20,000. Investors who wish to apply for additional shares can do so in multiples of 500. The public subscription period will remain open for two days, from September 28 to September 29, 2026. IPO Offers 30 Million Ordinary Shares The SE Fruits IPO comprises 30 million ordinary shares, representing 32.01% of the company’s post-IPO paid-up capital. Of the total offering, 22.5 million shares were allocated to the book-building portion, while 7.5 million shares have been reserved for the general public. At the issue price of Rs 40 per share, the total size of the offering stands at Rs 1.2 billion. Book-Building Portion Oversubscribed 1.6 Times The book-building portion of the IPO was oversubscribed 1.6 times, indicating demand from investors during the earlier phase of the offering. The completion of the public subscription will allow eligible investors to participate in the remaining portion of the IPO through the prescribed electronic application process. Applications Must Be Submitted Electronically Under revised regulations, investors are required to submit IPO applications electronically. Physical submission of IPO applications at bank branches is no longer permitted. Investors can submit their applications through available electronic IPO platforms or participating banks’ digital channels, subject to the facilities offered by their respective banks. The electronic application process is intended to streamline IPO participation and provide investors with digital access to public offerings. SE Fruits Is an Export-Oriented Company SE Fruits and Vegetable Limited is an export-oriented company engaged in the export of kinnow, mangoes and potatoes. The company operates on a Shariah-compliant basis and focuses on agricultural produce for international markets. Its IPO provides the company with an opportunity to raise capital through the public market while bringing its shares to a wider base of investors. SE Fruits IPO Adds to Pakistan’s Capital Market Activity The SE Fruits and Vegetable Limited offering adds another listing opportunity to Pakistan’s capital market, particularly within the agriculture and export-oriented business segment. With the public subscription window open through September 29, investors can submit applications electronically at the prescribed issue price and minimum application size.

Karachi Port Handles 199,029 Tonnes of Cargo in 24 Hours
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Karachi Port Handles 199,029 Tonnes of Cargo in 24 Hours

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Karachi, 25 September 2026: Karachi Port Trust (KPT) maintained robust and efficient maritime operations, handling 199,029 metric tonnes of cargo during the 24-hour period from 0700 hours on 24 September to 0700 hours on 25 September 2026. The throughput comprised 147,628 tonnes of imports and 51,401 tonnes of exports. Containerised cargo accounted for 100,945 tonnes, while total dry and liquid cargo stood at 134,129 tonnes and 64,900 tonnes, respectively. During the period, 19 ships remained berthed, seven vessels sailed, while seven ships were at Outer Port Limits (OPL). KPT is also expecting 19 vessel arrivals during 25–26 September, reflecting sustained maritime and trade activity at Karachi Port.

Artistic Denim Mills Sees Turnover Fall as Sales Drop
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Artistic Denim Mills Sees Turnover Fall as Sales Drop

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Artistic Denim Mills Limited has released its results for the year ended 30 June 2026. Sales fell sharply, yet the company improved gross margins and operating profit while slightly narrowing its net loss. The board met on 24 September 2026 and recommended no cash dividend, bonus shares or rights issue. Sales Down, Margins Improve Turnover dropped to Rs 13.90 billion from Rs 18.35 billion a year earlier. Cost of sales also declined, helping gross profit rise to Rs 1.13 billion from Rs 1.06 billion. Distribution and administrative costs were lower. Other income fell. Operating profit still increased to Rs 530 million from Rs 498 million. Finance Costs Keep Company in Loss Finance costs rose to Rs 821 million from Rs 707 million. That pushed the company to a loss before levies of Rs 291 million. After levies of Rs 145 million, net loss stood at Rs 436 million, a little better than last year’s Rs 451 million. Loss per share was Rs 5.19 against Rs 5.37. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Total assets declined to Rs 23.10 billion. Equity fell to Rs 7.30 billion. Long-term financing increased while short-term borrowings were reduced. Cash generated from operations turned positive at Rs 1.02 billion after a large outflow last year. Cash on hand still dropped to Rs 208 million from Rs 596 million. Annual General Meeting Details The company will hold its AGM on 28 October 2026 at 4:00 p.m. at Dewan University in Korangi Industrial Area, Karachi. Share transfer books will stay closed from 20 to 28 October 2026. The board fixed the next board size at seven directors for a three-year term starting 23 November 2026. The annual report will be issued through PUCARS at least 21 days before the meeting.

PSO FY26 Profit Falls 28% After Inventory Hit
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PSO FY26 Profit Falls 28% After Inventory Hit

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Pakistan State Oil (PSO) closed FY2026 with profit after tax of PKR15.1 billion, down 28% from the previous year, while earnings per share stood at PKR32.1. Despite the decline in annual earnings, the company’s board recommended a final cash dividend of PKR10 per share. Fourth Quarter Turns Sharply Negative PSO’s fourth-quarter performance was significantly weaker than its full-year results. The company reported a loss after tax of approximately PKR23 billion for the June quarter, translating into a loss per share of PKR49.1. The quarterly loss was more than five times larger than the loss reported in the same period a year earlier. According to Taurus Securities, however, the result was still better than some market forecasts. Net sales remained broadly stable at around PKR809 billion, but gross margin fell to negative 4%. Inventory Losses Drive Quarterly Pressure The major drag on fourth-quarter earnings came from inventory losses following a sharp decline in ex-refinery prices. Oil marketing companies can face significant earnings volatility when product prices fall rapidly because inventory purchased at higher prices has to be valued against lower prevailing prices. PSO also handled considerably fewer cargoes during the quarter. The company processed only six cargoes, with no cargo activity recorded in April, compared with 28 cargoes during the same period a year earlier. The combination of inventory losses and weaker cargo activity placed substantial pressure on quarterly profitability. Full-Year Sales Soften On Market Share For FY2026, PSO’s net sales declined 3% year on year to PKR3.05 trillion. The company attributed the softer top line primarily to a reduction in market share. Despite lower sales, gross profit increased 3% to nearly PKR100 billion. Operating profit, however, declined 7% as operating expenses increased and other income weakened. Finance costs provided some relief, falling 24% to PKR25.7 billion during the year. Profit before tax consequently increased 3% to PKR54.2 billion. A higher tax charge subsequently reduced the amount flowing through to net profit, leaving annual PAT at PKR15.1 billion. Dividend Held At PKR10 Per Share Despite the weaker annual earnings and substantial fourth-quarter loss, PSO’s board maintained the final cash dividend at PKR10 per share. The payout provides shareholders with a cash return while the company navigates the earnings volatility associated with oil prices, inventory valuations and changes in market share. The dividend will also remain relevant for investors focused on income from oil marketing companies. Inventory Risk Remains A Key Watchpoint PSO’s FY2026 results highlight the sensitivity of oil marketing company earnings to sudden movements in product prices. Stable sales do not necessarily translate into stable profits when inventory values move sharply. A rapid decline in ex-refinery prices can create significant inventory losses and compress margins within a relatively short period. For FY2027, the key operating indicators will include PSO’s ability to recover market share and the direction and volatility of petroleum product prices. Until those factors become clearer, earnings could remain volatile even if the company maintains a relatively stable revenue base.

ITCN Asia 2026 Concludes on High Note with over US$550 Million in Business Commitments
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ITCN Asia 2026 Concludes On High Note With Over US$550 Million In Business Commitments

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ITCN Asia 2026 Concludes on High Note with over US$550 Million in Business Commitments The 28th ITCN Asia 2026 concluded on Thursday at Karachi Expo Centre, with organizers reporting more than US$550 million in business commitments across over 75 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), contracts and other commercial agreements. The three-day technology exhibition and conference brought together technology companies, investors, entrepreneurs, professionals and business decision-makers, highlighting growing activity across Pakistan’s technology and digital economy. Strong Business Activity At ITCN Asia 2026 The reported US$550 million in commitments covers MoUs, contracts and other business engagements established during the exhibition. According to the organizers, the agreements are expected to materialize over the coming years and contribute to Pakistan’s information technology, digital services and wider technology ecosystem. The scale of the commitments also highlighted opportunities for international investment, technology partnerships and cross-border collaboration as Pakistan’s digital economy continues to develop. ITCN Asia 2026 was organized by Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd. with the support of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) as Strategic Supporter. The Special Technology Zones Authority and the Science & IT Department, Government of Sindh, participated as Strategic Partners, while Ignite National Technology Fund served as National Innovation Partner. Strong Visitor Response On Final Day The final day attracted a large number of trade visitors, including technology professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, technology enthusiasts and business decision-makers. Exhibitors reported strong engagement from visitors and prospective customers, while the exhibition floor remained active with business meetings, product demonstrations and networking sessions. The event also provided participants with opportunities to discuss potential commercial partnerships and explore technology solutions across multiple industry segments. Technology Conference Covers Key Digital Trends Alongside the exhibition, ITCN Asia 2026 featured a three-day conference programme focused on issues shaping Pakistan’s technology sector. Discussions covered artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital transformation, technology investment, entrepreneurship and future-ready talent. The programme also examined the development of Pakistan’s broader digital economy, while participating companies and organizations used the event to showcase new products and technology solutions. Business Commitments Could Support Future Investment Muhammad Umair Nizam, CEO of ITCN Asia, said the scale of engagements recorded during the event demonstrated growing interest in Pakistan’s technology ecosystem. He said the more than US$550 million in MoUs, contracts and business commitments reflected interest from both local and international stakeholders and could translate into investment, technology partnerships, business expansion and stronger international connections in the coming years. The reported commitments represent agreements and planned business activity rather than completed investment, with their eventual implementation depending on the terms and conditions of individual agreements. ITCN Asia 2027 Heads To Lahore With the Karachi edition now concluded, the next ITCN Asia is scheduled for 29–31 January 2027 at Expo Centre Lahore. Organizers said approximately 80% of the exhibition space for the next edition has already been booked, indicating continued exhibitor interest in the event. The 28th ITCN Asia has therefore concluded with a combination of reported business commitments, technology showcases and industry discussions, while the next edition is already being positioned as another platform for investment, innovation and technology partnerships.

PTA Begins Checking Telecom Towers’ Power Backup to Maintain Mobile Services
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PTA Begins Checking Telecom Towers’ Power Backup to Maintain Mobile Services

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The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started physical inspections of power backup arrangements at telecom towers across the country to help maintain mobile services during electricity outages. The inspections began on 24 September 2026 and are being conducted by teams from PTA’s zonal offices in major cities, covering both urban and rural areas. PTA Checks Batteries, Generators And Solar Systems PTA teams from Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Multan, Faisalabad and Muzaffarabad are visiting telecom towers within their respective zones. During the inspections, teams are checking the availability and condition of key backup systems, including batteries, generators and solar power installations. The authority is giving particular attention to locations affected by frequent or prolonged load shedding, where power interruptions can directly affect the continuity of mobile services. Focus On Areas With Weak Or Unavailable Signals The inspections also involve local representatives and their nominees, who are helping identify locations where mobile signals become weak or services become unavailable during power outages. This field-level information is intended to help the regulator identify gaps in tower backup arrangements and areas where network availability may be affected when the main electricity supply is interrupted. The checks cover both urban and rural locations, allowing PTA teams to assess backup readiness across different operating environments. Regular Inspections Directed PTA Chairman Maj. Gen. Hafeez Ur Rehman (Retired), HI (M), SI has directed the authority’s zonal offices to continue the inspections regularly. The ongoing checks are aimed at improving the resilience of mobile networks during electricity disruptions and ensuring that telecom operators maintain adequate backup arrangements at their sites. For mobile users, the availability of functional batteries, generators and solar systems at telecom towers can be important in maintaining connectivity when grid power is unavailable.

Experts Call for Regulated Tobacco Harm Reduction Framework in Pakistan
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Experts Call for Regulated Tobacco Harm Reduction Framework in Pakistan

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Karachi, September 22, 2026: With tobacco use continuing to claim an estimated 164,000 lives annually in Pakistan, health and policy experts have called for urgent action to strengthen the country’s tobacco control strategy by introducing a regulated, evidence-based framework for Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR). While Pakistan has recorded a 15.7% decline in tobacco consumption between 2014 and 2024, experts caution that the pace of decline remains inadequate against the scale of tobacco-related mortality. They stressed that alongside prevention and cessation efforts, adult smokers who are unable to quit should have access to scientifically evaluated, regulated alternatives to combustible cigarettes, supported by accurate information and appropriate medical guidance. Experts Call for Evidence-Based Tobacco Harm Reduction Mirza M. Abeer, Founder of the Association for Smoking Alternatives in Pakistan (ASAP), said, “A decline in tobacco consumption is encouraging, but when approximately 164,000 lives are still being lost every year, progress cannot be measured by prevalence alone. Pakistan needs a regulatory framework that gives adult smokers access to credible information and scientifically evaluated alternatives while enforcing strict standards for quality, marketing and age restrictions. Regulation is essential to ensure harm reduction is responsible, informed and accessible.” Smoking Burden Extends Beyond Health The burden of smoking also extends far beyond individual health, placing pressure on Pakistan’s healthcare system, household finances and the wider economy. Experts highlighted that this burden disproportionately affects lower-income communities, which often have less access to specialist healthcare, cessation support and reliable information. Doctors Highlight Complete Cessation as the Goal Dr. Saima Zahoor, Clinical Oncologist, said, “The safest outcome for every smoker is complete cessation. However, when patients are unable to quit despite repeated attempts, the medical conversation cannot simply end there. Healthcare professionals should be equipped to discuss evidence-based harm-reduction approaches, explain relative risk clearly and help patients move away from continued exposure to combustible tobacco.” Dr. Aftab Ahmed Khan, Family Physician & Public Health Expert, added, “Smoking remains a major preventable contributor to cardiovascular disease and every additional year of exposure matters. Complete cessation must remain the goal, but for smokers who struggle to quit, reducing exposure to the toxic products of combustion can be an important step. Physicians need clear, evidence-based guidance to support these patients responsibly.” Experts Seek Stronger Tobacco Regulation Experts urged policymakers to establish a science-based THR framework with stringent product standards, safeguards against youth access and clear guidance for healthcare professionals. They stressed that access to smoking cessation and harm reduction should not depend on income or an individual’s ability to navigate complex health information and that every adult smoker should have access to credible guidance and appropriate interventions. THR Proposed as Part of Comprehensive Tobacco Strategy With tobacco continuing to impose a significant human, healthcare and economic burden on Pakistan, experts called for THR to be considered as part of a comprehensive national strategy that accelerates the transition away from combustible tobacco while keeping complete cessation as the ultimate goal.

Clifton Residents Seek Action Against Illegal Commercial Use
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Clifton Residents Seek Action Against Illegal Commercial Use

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Residents of Kehkashan Town House in Clifton’s Block 5 have raised concerns over the alleged conversion of residential houses into multi-storey commercial office buildings, saying the activity has changed the character of the small housing project. The planned residential project originally comprised 16 houses. Residents claim several units are now being used for large-scale business operations without approved changes in land use or the required permissions from relevant authorities. Encroachments And Pollution According to the complaint, public footpaths and portions of adjoining roads have also been occupied, restricting pedestrian movement and reducing public access. Residents have further complained about heavy generators installed in common parking areas. They say the generators are causing excessive noise and air pollution while creating safety concerns and reducing available parking space. Substation Use Raises Safety Concerns The residents have also alleged that the roof or structure of an electric substation is being used for storage or warehousing purposes. They say the alleged use of utility infrastructure for storage could create additional safety risks, particularly in a densely occupied residential area. Residents Seek Official Intervention The complainants have urged the relevant authorities, including the Sindh Building Control Authority, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and K-Electric, to inspect the area and determine whether land-use, building, encroachment and utility regulations are being violated. Residents have also alleged that people raising objections face pressure and intimidation, discouraging them from pursuing formal complaints. They have requested confidentiality for the complainant, citing fears of retaliation and alleging that influential individuals are connected to the disputed activities.

ABHI Microfinance Bank partners with SOS Group and South Air to offer advance salary solutions
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ABHI Microfinance Bank Partners With SOS Group and South Air to Offer Advance Salary Solutions

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ABHI Microfinance Bank Partners With SOS Group and South Air KARACHI: ABHI Microfinance Bank is proud to announce its partnership with SOS Group and South Air to introduce Advance Salary solutions for their employees, providing greater financial flexibility and convenience when it matters most. Advance Salary Solutions Offer Greater Financial Flexibility Through this collaboration, employees will have the ability to access a portion of their earned salary when needed, helping them manage everyday financial requirements with greater ease and greater control over their finances. Partnership Agreement Signed by Senior Representatives The agreement was signed by Sohail Khan, Group Advisor, SOS Group, and Mariam Pervaiz, Chief Innovation & Financial Inclusion Officer, ABHI Microfinance Bank, in the presence of Mr. Kabeer Naqvi, Entrepreneur in Residence, ABHI Group, and Kanwar Muhammad Tariq, Group Chairman. ABHI Microfinance Bank Strengthens Financial Inclusion This partnership reflects ABHI Microfinance Bank’s continued commitment to advancing financial inclusion and developing innovative solutions that empower individuals with greater access, flexibility, and control over their earned income. Building Practical Financial Solutions for Employees ABHI Microfinance Bank continues to build partnerships that bring practical financial solutions closer to people, helping create a more financially empowered workforce.

Ideas. Innovation. Imagination: Iqra University Celebrates Creative Excellence at Media Unveiled 2026
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Ideas. Innovation. Imagination: Iqra University Celebrates Creative Excellence at Media Unveiled 2026

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KARACHI: Turning classrooms into creative studios and ideas into tangible experiences, Iqra University’s Department of Media Science successfully staged “Media Unveiled 2026,” an inspiring showcase of student talent, innovation, research and visual storytelling. The exhibition brought together an impressive range of advertising, media and design projects, highlighting the creative potential and practical skills of students from different semesters. The exhibition featured Final Year Thesis projects by BS Media Science Advertising students, spanning App Design, Product Design and Service Concepts. Developed through a year-long research and creative process, the projects reflected fresh ideas, thoughtful problem-solving and a strong understanding of contemporary advertising and user experience. Students also presented compelling work in Art Direction and Interior Design. The Art Direction projects, developed under the guidance of Mr. Irfan Ul Haq, demonstrated how set design, props, costumes, colour, composition, camera angles and lighting can combine to create powerful visual narratives. The Interior Design project, supervised by Ms. Samina Mumtaz, showcased a thoughtfully developed setup using timber wood and stage materials, highlighting students’ practical skills in design planning, material selection, spatial arrangement and creative execution. Media Unveiled 2026 provided a vibrant platform for students to transform academic learning into professional-quality creative outcomes, while reflecting the Department’s commitment to experiential learning, innovation and industry-relevant education. Media Unveiled 2026 reaffirmed Iqra University’s commitment to developing creative, innovative and industry-ready professionals by providing students with opportunities to transform academic learning into impactful real-world work. The showcase celebrated not only the students’ creativity and hard work, but also the faculty’s role in mentoring and shaping emerging talent prepared to contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s evolving media, advertising and design landscape.

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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