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Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025 Reflect Regional Divide in Output
Pakistan

Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025 Reflect Regional Divide in Output

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Pakistan cotton arrivals 2025 reached 5.43 million bales by December 31, marking a 0.33% year-on-year decline compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) and the Pakistan Cotton Corporation (PCC). Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/kse-100-index-performance-declines-amid-broad-based-selling-pressure/ While the overall decline appears marginal, a deeper look into provincial performance reveals a sharp divergence between Punjab and Sindh, highlighting structural imbalances within Pakistan’s cotton economy. Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025: National Overview As of the end of December 2025, cotton arrivals at ginning factories totaled 5.43 million bales, compared to 5.45 million bales in December 2024. On a month-on-month basis, arrivals increased by nearly 6%, indicating some seasonal recovery momentum as harvesting peaked across major cotton-growing belts. However, despite this short-term improvement, overall volumes remain well below historical averages, reinforcing concerns about Pakistan’s long-term cotton production capacity. Punjab’s Cotton Output Declines Sharply in 2025 Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025 Show Punjab Under Pressure Punjab, traditionally a major contributor to national cotton output, recorded 2.54 million bales by December 31, 2025. This represents a 4.44% year-on-year decline from 2.66 million bales in the same period last year. Month-on-month, Punjab did show an 8.17% increase, rising from approximately 2.35 million bales in November 2025. However, this recovery was insufficient to offset deeper seasonal losses caused by: • Reduced cotton acreage• Water availability challenges• Pest infestations• Farmers shifting to alternative, higher-margin crops Punjab’s declining contribution continues to weigh heavily on Pakistan cotton arrivals 2025, underscoring persistent vulnerabilities in the province’s cotton ecosystem. Sindh Leads Growth in Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025 Sindh Offsets National Decline In contrast, Sindh province emerged as the stabilizing force for Pakistan’s cotton sector this season. Cotton arrivals in Sindh reached 2.89 million bales by December 31, 2025, reflecting a 3.58% year-on-year increase compared to 2.79 million bales in December 2024. On a month-on-month basis, Sindh recorded a 3.92% rise, adding over 100,000 bales from November levels. The province’s performance allowed it to retain its position as Pakistan’s largest cotton-producing region, partially compensating for Punjab’s contraction. Improved crop management practices and relatively better water availability contributed to Sindh’s resilience during the 2025 cotton season. Historical Context Highlights Structural Weaknesses Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025 Far Below Peak Levels Historical trends underline the severity of the current slowdown. Pakistan recorded peak cotton arrivals of 8.17 million bales in December 2023, illustrating a significant gap between recent performance and prior production highs. The sharp contrast between peak output and Pakistan cotton arrivals 2025 reflects deeper, long-standing challenges that remain unresolved within the sector. Key Challenges Facing Pakistan’s Cotton Sector Despite modest gains in Sindh, Pakistan’s cotton industry continues to struggle with several structural constraints: • Chronic water shortages• Rising incidence of pest attacks• Inadequate support prices for farmers• Competition from alternative cash crops such as sugarcane and maize• Limited adoption of modern seed technology Without comprehensive policy intervention, these factors threaten to further erode Pakistan’s cotton production base and increase reliance on imported raw material for the textile industry. Outlook for Pakistan Cotton Arrivals 2025 While short-term seasonal gains are possible in the remaining months of the cotton year, overall Pakistan cotton arrivals 2025 are expected to remain under pressure unless systemic reforms are introduced. Strengthening farmer incentives, improving irrigation infrastructure, and investing in pest-resistant seed varieties will be critical to reversing the declining trend. For Pakistan’s textile-driven economy, the performance of the cotton sector remains a strategic priority, making policy clarity and sectoral support more urgent than ever.

PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council Signals Strong Market Confidence and Trade Growth
Pakistan

PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council Signals Strong Market Confidence and Trade Growth

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PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council marked a significant moment for Pakistan’s capital markets as Mr. Samir Dossal, President of the Canada Pakistan Business Council (CPBC), rang the ceremonial opening gong at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on 13 January 2026 in Karachi. The prstigious event celebrated a major milestone $1 billion in bilateral trade between Canada and Pakistan while reinforcing growing institutional and investor ties between the two countries. The ceremony was hosted by PSX Chairman Mr. Ruhail Muhamad and Managing Director & CEO Mr. Farrukh Sabzwari, with special recognition given to Mr. Nadeem Naqvi, Director at PSX and CPBC, for his instrumental role in strengthening Canada-Pakistan business engagement and facilitating greater international investor participation in Pakistan’s capital markets. PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council Reflects Market Optimism During his address, Mr. Dossal emphasized that the strong performance of the Pakistan Stock Exchange sends a powerful signal to global investors, particularly Canadian institutions exploring emerging market opportunities. He noted that Pakistan has successfully navigated economic challenges in recent years and is now positioned for sustainable growth and renewed investor confidence. With a population exceeding 240 million, Pakistan offers a large and rapidly expanding consumer and investment market. Mr. Dossal highlighted that the vibrant Pakistani-Canadian diaspora further strengthens bilateral relations by enabling two-way flows of capital, expertise, innovation, and entrepreneurial collaboration. Canada-Pakistan Trade Growth: From $300 Million to $1 Billion A key highlight of the PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council event was the remarkable expansion of bilateral trade. Since 2012, trade volume between Canada and Pakistan has grown from approximately $300 million to over $1 billion annually, reflecting stronger policy alignment, improved regulatory coordination, and rising private-sector engagement. This growth spans multiple high-impact sectors, each contributing to long-term economic integration between the two nations. PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council Highlights Key Sectors Agrifood Trade and Market Access After nearly three years of regulatory coordination, Canada and Pakistan successfully resolved outstanding requirements, enabling the arrival of 500,000 tons of Canadian canola at Karachi Port. This breakthrough represents one of the most significant agrifood trade achievements between the two countries. Mr. Dossal acknowledged the leadership of Senator Ishaq Dar, Ms. Anita Anand, and High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan, whose coordinated efforts made this landmark trade deal possible. Education, Innovation, and Research Collaboration Another major milestone announced at the ceremony was the academic partnership between NED University and Toronto Metropolitan University, led by Dr. Mohamed Lachemi. Facilitated by CPBC, the signed Memorandum of Understanding is expected to foster long-term collaboration in research, innovation, and knowledge exchange, strengthening human capital development across borders. Canadian Brands Thriving in Pakistan’s Consumer Market The PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council also spotlighted the rapid success of Canadian franchises in Pakistan. Tim Hortons has recorded strong consumer response following flagship store launches in Karachi and Lahore. Mary Brown’s Chicken recently entered the Pakistani market with an enthusiastic reception, while Second Cup continues its sustained growth with over 50 outlets nationwide, reinforcing confidence in Pakistan’s retail and food services sector. Additionally, CPBC’s engagement with CATYES.org, the Canadian Alliance for Trade, aligns Canada-Pakistan trade objectives with Canada’s broader Indo-Pacific Strategy, opening new channels for investment and strategic cooperation. PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council Sends a Clear Message Concluding his remarks, Mr. Dossal delivered a clear and forward-looking message:“We are not just trading goods; we are building a shared economic future.” The PSX Gong Ceremony Canada Pakistan Business Council stands as a symbol of deepening trust, expanding trade, and long-term partnership between Canada and Pakistan anchored in strong institutions, resilient markets, and shared economic ambition. About the Canada Pakistan Business Council (CPBC) The Canada Pakistan Business Council (CPBC) is the premier bilateral trade organization dedicated to advancing economic ties between the two countries. Recently celebrating its 42nd anniversary, CPBC has played a pivotal role in facilitating over $1 billion in annual trade, supporting investment flows, policy dialogue, and private-sector collaboration across multiple industries.

SECP Warns Against Unauthorized Investment Platforms Preying on Investors
Pakistan

SECP Warns Against Unauthorized Investment Platforms Preying on Investors

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SECP warns against unauthorized investment platforms as the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a strong public alert highlighting the growing threat of illegal online trading and investment schemes operating without regulatory approval. These fraudulent platforms are increasingly targeting unsuspecting investors across Pakistan by promising unrealistically high returns on stock market investments. According to the regulator, several unauthorized entities are actively misleading the public, raising serious concerns about investor protection, financial fraud, and digital financial safety. SECP Warns Against Unauthorized Investment Platforms Operating Illegally In its latest advisory dated January 13, 2026, SECP has identified illegal online investment platforms operating under the names “Hillhouse Capital / Hillhouse Investment” and “S-169 Wharton.” These platforms falsely claim to offer lucrative investment opportunities in shares of listed companies while operating entirely outside Pakistan’s regulatory framework. SECP has categorically clarified that neither Hillhouse Capital nor S-169 Wharton is licensed, registered, or authorized to provide investment advisory or trading services in Pakistan. As a result, the regulator has formally reported these platforms to relevant law enforcement agencies for further investigation and action. How Unauthorized Investment Platforms Mislead the Public SECP warns against unauthorized investment platforms that typically follow a familiar pattern of deception. These schemes are often promoted through private messaging apps, particularly WhatsApp and Telegram groups, where fraudsters misuse the names of licensed brokerage houses, reputable financial institutions, or well-known market professionals. Instead of presenting legitimate disclosures or risk warnings, such platforms lure investors with exaggerated claims of guaranteed or unusually high returns a clear red flag in any regulated financial market. In practical terms, these platforms claim to offer: • Online trading in listed company shares• “Insider tips” or exclusive stock recommendations• Managed investment services without formal contracts• Fast and risk-free profits SECP reiterates that no legitimate investment opportunity can guarantee fixed or abnormal returns, especially in equity markets. SECP Warns Against Unauthorized Investment Platforms and Advises Investor Caution SECP strongly advises investors to engage only with SECP-licensed securities and futures brokers. Legitimate brokers can be verified through official sources, including the websites of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) and the Pakistan Mercantile Exchange (PMEX). Instead of trusting unsolicited investment offers, investors should independently verify: • Whether the broker or platform is SECP-licensed• Whether official contact details match those listed on the broker’s website• Whether the investment structure complies with Pakistani securities laws SECP warns against unauthorized investment platforms that ask investors to transfer funds to personal bank accounts, digital wallets, or informal arrangements—another common indicator of fraud. SECP Warns Against Unauthorized Investment Platforms: Public Advisory SECP has issued a firm warning advising the public not to deposit or invest any funds with Hillhouse Capital / Hillhouse Investment, S-169 Wharton, or any individuals or groups promoting similar schemes under any arrangement. The regulator further urges investors to: • Avoid sharing CNIC details, bank information, or OTPs• Refrain from joining unofficial investment groups on social media• Report suspicious investment offers to SECP immediately By taking these precautions, investors can protect themselves from financial loss and identity misuse. Why SECP’s Warning Matters for Pakistan’s Financial Market SECP’s action reflects its broader mandate to safeguard investor confidence and ensure transparency in Pakistan’s capital markets. Unauthorized investment platforms not only harm individual investors but also undermine trust in the country’s financial system. As digital finance and online trading continue to grow, SECP warns against unauthorized investment platforms becoming more sophisticated and aggressive in their outreach making investor awareness more critical than ever. SECP warns against unauthorized investment platforms as a reminder that informed decision-making is the first line of defense against financial fraud. Investors are encouraged to remain vigilant, verify credentials, and rely solely on licensed market participants. In an era of fast-growing digital investment opportunities, regulatory compliance is participants it is essential for financial security and long-term market stability.

Pak-Qatar General Takaful to Launch Rs420m IPO at PSX Next Week
Pakistan

Pak-Qatar General Takaful to Launch Rs420m IPO at PSX Next Week

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Karachi, January 13, 2026: Pak-Qatar General Takaful Limited (PQGTL), a Pak-Qatar Group Company, is one of Pakistan’s pioneering dedicated Shariah-compliant takaful providers, is set to launch its Initial Public Offering (IPO) next week to raise up to Rs. 420 million, the company said in a statement. The book-building process is scheduled for January 21–22, with investor registration opening on January 16. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pak-qatar-general-takaful-ipo-gets-secp-approval-signaling-strong-ipo-momentum-in-pakistan/ Following the IPO, PQGTL will become the first dedicated general (non-life) takaful operator to be listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), at a time when the benchmark KSE-100 Index continues to scale new historic highs. The listing forms part of PQGTL’s strategy to enhance its paid-up capital base, enabling the company to meet applicable regulatory capital requirements for non-life insurers and Takaful operators, while supporting future growth initiatives. “Arif Habib Limited has been mandated by Pak-Qatar General Takaful Limited to act as the consultant and book runner for raising funds through the Initial Public Offering,” the company stated. The IPO follows the successful listing of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited (PQFTL) last month, which raised Rs. 901 million in Pakistan’s first-ever Islamic insurance sector IPO at a strike price of Rs. 18.02 per share. That offering—Pakistan’s largest dedicated family takaful IPO—was oversubscribed by 3.5 times, reflecting strong investor appetite for Shariah-compliant financial products. Under the current offering, PQGTL will issue 30 million shares, with a floor price of Rs. 10 per share and a ceiling price of Rs. 14 per share. Of the total offering, 22.5 million shares (75%) will be allocated to institutional investors, while 7.5 million shares (25%) will be offered to the public. The general public subscription is scheduled for January 28–29. The proceeds from the IPO will be utilized to fund strategic initiatives, including investments in software and other intangible assets, hardware and infrastructure, marketing and brand development, human resource enhancement, and the establishment of new branches, as well as the transformation of existing branches to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. PQGTL is part of Pak-Qatar Group, Pakistan’s premier and pioneer Islamic financial services group and is backed by Qatar-based financial institutions. The company offers a comprehensive range of Shariah-compliant general takaful products and, upon listing, will become the first dedicated General Takaful company to trade on the PSX. Last week, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) approved PQGTL’s IPO prospectus, noting that IPO activity at the PSX has gathered strong momentum during FY2025–26. PQGTL’s offering will mark the sixth IPO on the PSX Main Board so far, this fiscal year.

Global Procurement & Supply Chain Summit 2026
Pakistan

Supply Chain Leaders Gather in Karachi for Global Procurement and Supply Chain Summit 2026 Hosted by Horizon Summit Management

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Karachi hosted the Global Procurement & Supply Chain Summit (GPS 2026) on 13 January 2026 at Mövenpick Hotel, with senior procurement professionals, supply chain leaders, policymakers, and technology specialists in attendance to discuss current developments affecting procurement and supply chain functions within Pakistan’s textile and manufacturing sectors. Organised by Horizon Summit Management (HSM), the summit focused on operational, technological, and regulatory considerations influencing supply chains, including sustainability requirements, vendor integration, procurement digitisation, and the growing role of data-driven decision-making. The summit opened with a welcome address by Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed, Chairman, Horizon Summit Management, followed by remarks from GPS Advisory Board members Imran Mushtaq and Altaf Gul Muhammad, who spoke on industry coordination, evolving procurement practices, and the need for practical alignment between corporate, regulatory, and technology stakeholders. Five panel discussions formed the core of the programme. These sessions addressed the development of sustainable and environmentally responsible supply chains, challenges and opportunities for local vendors in Pakistan, global and AI-enabled procurement practices within textile supply chains, leadership and technology considerations in procurement functions, and regulatory frameworks alongside international operating standards. At the occasion Mr. Mobeen Waqar – Vice President Textile Traders Association, Mr. Muhammad Raza – Senior Vice President KCCI and Mr. Arif Lakhani – Vice President KCCI will grace the summit as Guest of Honor. Participants included senior executives and specialists from organizations such as Yunus Textile Mills, Gul Ahmed Textile Mills, Liberty Textiles, Lucky Textile Mills, Alkaram Textile Mills, Artistic Milliners, Rajby Industries, Soorty Enterprises, and Qingdao Aige Jinyi Textile Co. Ltd, along with professionals from technology firms and academic institutions contributing perspectives on procurement systems, automation, and digital infrastructure. The programme concluded with an awards and memento distribution ceremony, an address by the Chief Guest President & CEO of Exim Bank of Pakistan Mr. Shahbaz H. Syed. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest said, “Pakistan’s supply chain and procurement functions are operating in an increasingly demanding environment, shaped by global standards, sustainability requirements, and rapid technological change. Forums such as the Global Procurement and Supply Chain Summit provide an important opportunity for industry, policymakers, and technology stakeholders to exchange practical insights and strengthen alignment. Continued dialogue of this nature will be essential to improving efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term resilience across key sectors of the economy.” Concluding remarks were delivered by Hafiz Kashif, followed by a vote of thanks from Syed Faisal Ali, Chief Executive Officer, Horizon Summit Management, and a networking dinner. Through GPS 2026, Horizon Summit Management delivered a structured forum centred on operational insight, peer exchange, and informed discussion, reflecting the evolving requirements of procurement and supply chain leadership within Pakistan’s textile and manufacturing economy.

PIA Launches 'Air to Rail' Partnership: Seamless Travel to Canada and UK Cities
Pakistan

PIA Launches ‘Air to Rail’ Partnership: Seamless Travel to Canada and UK Cities

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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched a groundbreaking “Air to Rail” partnership with leading rail operators in Canada and the United Kingdom, enabling seamless intermodal travel for its international passengers. Under this historic agreement, travelers can now book a single ticket that combines PIA flights with onward train journeys, simplifying connections from major arrival airports to multiple destinations across both countries. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pia-lahore-to-london-flights-to-resume-from-march-30-2026/ The initiative aims to provide door-to-door convenience, save time, and eliminate the hassle of separate bookings for ground transport upon arrival. Seamless Connectivity in Canada Passengers arriving in Toronto on PIA flights can continue their journey via partner rail services to eight key Canadian cities. This integration leverages Canada’s extensive rail network, allowing travelers to reach urban centers and regional hubs efficiently without additional transfers or separate reservations. The partnership enhances accessibility for the Pakistani diaspora and tourists, offering a more integrated travel experience from Pakistan to various parts of Canada. Expanded Reach Across the UK For those flying into London or Manchester, the agreement provides onward rail access to over 50 cities throughout the United Kingdom. This broad coverage connects passengers to destinations beyond the major airports, supporting business, family visits, and leisure travel. Booking is streamlined through PIA’s official channels, including its website, mobile app, booking offices, and registered travel agents, ensuring a user-friendly process. The spokesperson emphasized that the collaboration represents a significant step in modernizing PIA’s services, aligning with digital advancements and passenger-centric improvements. By reducing post-flight logistics, the initiative promises greater convenience, cost efficiency, and reliability for international travelers.

Pakistan Defense Exports Potentially Hit $13bn Mark
Pakistan

Pakistan Defence Exports Potentially Hit $13bn Mark

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Pakistan is poised for a major economic transformation as defense exports surge, with tracked deals potentially reaching $13 billion. This wave of agreements, spanning fighter jets like the JF-17 Thunder, Al-Khalid tanks, drones, armored vehicles, naval systems, ammunition, and small arms, targets markets in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond, according to KTrade report. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/jf-17-thunder-takes-centre-stage-in-pak-indonesia-defence-discussions/ Bolstered by the battle-proven performance of Pakistani equipment—particularly the JF-17 in recent regional conflicts—these exports are seen as a key driver for foreign exchange inflows, industrial growth, and job creation over 2026-2030. Strategic Partnerships Fuel Export Momentum Key deals involve countries such as Saudi Arabia (in advanced talks to convert $2 billion in loans into JF-17 purchases), Indonesia (discussing cooperation), Bangladesh (exploring acquisitions), and African nations like Libya, Sudan, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Algeria, Zimbabwe, and others. The JF-17 Thunder, co-developed with China and produced domestically at Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra, stands out as a flagship product. Institutions like Heavy Industries Taxila (for tanks), Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF), and Karachi Shipyard are gearing up for scaled production. These geo-strategic engagements, enhanced post recent diplomatic successes, position Pakistan as a reliable supplier for nations seeking affordable, high-quality arms without stringent conditions. Economic Supercharge and Long-Term Gains Analysts project an 82% jump in foreign exchange reserves from these inflows, aiding the Uraan Pakistan goal of $60 billion in exports by 2029. The boom catalyzes investments in supporting industries—avionics, components, and training—while creating widespread employment. A robust defense tech sector could spill over into broader technology advancements, including drones and advanced missiles. With global defense spending rising amid conflicts, Pakistan’s export push offers a pathway to economic stability, reduced reliance on loans, and strengthened external accounts.

JF-17 Thunder Takes Centre Stage in Pak-Indonesia Defence Discussions
Pakistan

JF-17 Thunder Takes Centre Stage in Pak-Indonesia Defence Discussions

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Islamabad – An Indonesian delegation, led by Defence Minister Lt Gen (R) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, met Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu at Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Tuesday to discuss deepening bilateral defence cooperation, with the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet emerging as a central topic. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-and-bangladesh-deepen-defence-ties-with-potential-jf-17-deal/ Strategic Dialogue and Modernisation Efforts The talks, which follow the recent state visit by the Indonesian President to Pakistan, emphasised capacity building, specialised training, technological exchange, and joint operational collaboration between the two air forces. Air Chief Marshal Sidhu briefed the minister on the PAF’s ongoing modernisation, including the induction of advanced capabilities, infrastructure upgrades, and readiness for multi-domain operations. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to long-term institutional engagement with Indonesia. JF-17 as Key Attraction Amid Global Interest Discussions highlighted the JF-17 Thunder, a multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China and produced in Pakistan. The jet has gained significant prestige following its demonstrated performance in the May 2025 conflict with India. Minister Sjamsoeddin praised the PAF’s operational excellence and commended Pakistan’s self-reliance in aerospace, particularly through the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park (NASTP), calling it a “testament to Pakistan’s increasing self-reliance.” Reports indicate advanced-stage negotiations for the potential sale of over 40 JF-17 jets, alongside air defence systems, training programs for Indonesian air force personnel, and interest in Pakistani drones like the Shahpar. While no concrete decisions were announced, both sides expressed enthusiasm for expanding joint ventures in aviation and aerospace to bolster regional stability. This engagement aligns with Pakistan’s broader defence export push, as seen in recent interest from Iraq, Bangladesh, and others.

KSE-100 Index Ends Lower Amid Broad-Based Selling Pressure
Pakistan

KSE-100 Index Ends Lower Amid Broad-Based Selling Pressure

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The KSE-100 Index extended its corrective phase on Monday, closing sharply lower as heavyweight sectors including commercial banks, oil & gas exploration, cement, and fertilizers came under selling pressure. Investor sentiment remained cautious despite strong year-to-date gains, leading to profit-taking across most index constituents. By the end of the trading session, the KSE-100 Index settled at 182,384.14 points, marking a decline of 2,025.53 points or 1.10% on a day dominated by negative breadth and sector-wide weakness. KSE-100 Index Intraday Performance Highlights The KSE-100 Index experienced heightened volatility throughout the session, moving within a wide intraday range of over 2,100 points. The index briefly touched an intraday high of 184,439.06 points, before selling pressure intensified, dragging it down to a low of 182,303.56 points. Market participation remained active, with 418.83 million shares traded within the benchmark index, indicating sustained investor engagement despite the bearish close. Market Breadth Signals Strong Selling Pressure Out of the 100 companies comprising the KSE-100 Index, market breadth remained decisively negative. Only 18 stocks closed in the green, while 81 stocks ended lower, and one stock remained unchanged, reflecting broad-based selling across sectors. Top Losers and Gainers in the KSE-100 Index Selling pressure was most pronounced in select blue-chip and growth stocks. The worst-performing stocks included insurance, technology, cement, and pharmaceutical names. Meanwhile, selective buying interest emerged in textiles, telecom, and chemicals. Stocks that declined the most were led by AICL, which shed nearly 8%, followed by SAZEW, KOHC, Systems Limited, and GlaxoSmithKline Pakistan. On the positive side, Nishat Mills, Pakistan Telecommunication Company, and Lotte Chemical Pakistan posted strong gains, helping cushion the index from steeper losses. KSE-100 Index Point Contribution Analysis From an index-point perspective, the downward move in the KSE-100 Index was largely driven by heavyweight stocks. Systems Limited, United Bank Limited, Meezan Bank, Engro Holdings, and Fauji Fertilizer Company collectively erased several hundred points from the benchmark. Conversely, support to the index came primarily from PTC, Nishat Mills, Askari Bank, Lotte Chemical, and Millat Tractors, which added modest points but were insufficient to offset broader losses. Sector-Wise Performance of the KSE-100 Index The KSE-100 Index was primarily dragged lower by the commercial banking sector, which contributed the largest negative impact. This was followed by oil & gas exploration, investment companies, cement, and fertilizer sectors, all of which faced notable selling pressure. On the supportive side, textile composite stocks provided limited relief, while marginal gains were recorded in REITs, woollen, sugar & allied industries, and leasing companies, though their overall contribution remained minimal. Broader Market Overview The weakness extended beyond the benchmark, as the All-Share Index closed at 109,499.62 points, down 882.96 points or 0.80%. Total market volume rose to 1.06 billion shares, reflecting increased activity, while traded value declined to Rs48.24 billion, indicating cautious positioning. Across the broader market, 161 stocks advanced, 284 declined, and 36 remained unchanged, reinforcing the bearish undertone. Long-Term Performance Keeps Investor Optimism Alive Despite the short-term correction, the KSE-100 Index has delivered impressive long-term returns. During the current fiscal year, the index has surged by 56,757 points, representing a gain of 45.18%. On a calendar-year basis, it remains up 8,330 points or 4.79%, highlighting the underlying strength of Pakistan’s equity market. Outlook for the KSE-100 Index Market participants are likely to remain selective in the near term, focusing on earnings visibility, interest rate expectations, and macroeconomic signals. While volatility may persist, strong fiscal-year performance suggests that any further dips in the KSE-100 Index could attract value-based buying.

Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate Shows Stability Against US Dollar
Pakistan

Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate Shows Stability Against US Dollar

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The Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate remained largely stable in Monday’s interbank trading session, as the local currency recorded a marginal gain of 1.14 paisa against the US dollar, closing at PKR 280.01 per USD, compared to the previous session’s close of 280.02. Currency market participants observed a relatively narrow trading range throughout the day, indicating calm sentiment and balanced demand-supply dynamics in the foreign exchange market. Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate in Interbank and Open Market During the session, the Pakistani rupee traded within a tight intraday band. The interbank market recorded a high (bid) of PKR 280.30 and a low (ask) of PKR 281.05, reflecting minimal volatility. In the open market, exchange companies quoted the US dollar at PKR 280.40 for buying and PKR 281.05 for selling, suggesting stable retail demand for foreign currency. This steadiness in the Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate aligns with improving external account indicators and cautious optimism around Pakistan’s macroeconomic outlook. Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate Against Major Global Currencies While the rupee held firm against the US dollar, it showed mixed performance against other major international currencies. Against the Euro, the Pakistani rupee depreciated by Rs1.11 or 0.34%, closing at PKR 327.25, compared to 326.14 in the previous session. This movement reflects the euro’s relative strength in global markets. Similarly, the rupee weakened against the British Pound, falling by 67 paisa or 0.18% to settle at PKR 376.74, compared to 376.07 a day earlier. The local currency also declined against the Swiss Franc, losing Rs1.52 or 0.44%, closing at PKR 351.62, indicating pressure from safe-haven currency demand. Asian and Regional Currency Performance In contrast, the Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate improved against the Japanese Yen, appreciating by 0.26 paisa or 0.15% to close at PKR 1.7749, compared to 1.7775 previously. Against the Chinese Yuan, however, the rupee weakened by 4.21 paisa or 0.10%, closing at PKR 40.15, reflecting ongoing trade settlement dynamics between the two countries. The rupee remained largely unchanged against Gulf currencies, strengthening slightly by 0.30 paisa against the Saudi Riyal to PKR 74.67, and by 0.31 paisa against the UAE Dirham to PKR 76.24, underscoring the peg-driven stability of these currencies. Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate: Fiscal Year and Calendar Year Trends From a broader perspective, the Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate has shown notable improvement over time. During the current fiscal year, the rupee has appreciated by Rs3.75 or 1.34% against the US dollar. On a calendar-year basis, the local currency has gained 11.10 paisa or 0.04%, signaling gradual stabilization following previous periods of heightened volatility. Money Market Update and Interest Rate Indicators In the money market, short-term liquidity conditions eased slightly. The 6-month Karachi Interbank Offered Rate (KIBOR) edged down by 3 basis points, with bid rates at 10.11% and offer rates at 10.36%. This decline suggests improving liquidity and reduced short-term funding pressure in the banking sector. Outlook for the Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate Market analysts believe the Pakistani Rupee Exchange Rate will continue to trade within a controlled range in the near term, supported by stable remittance inflows, disciplined import demand, and cautious monetary policy expectations. However, external factors such as global interest rate movements and commodity prices will remain key risk indicators.

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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