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Google Launches Industry-Validated AI Certificate in Pakistan Amid Growing Demand for AI-Fluent Talent
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Google Launches Industry-Validated AI Certificate in Pakistan Amid Growing Demand for AI-Fluent Talent

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Karachi: Google today announced the launch of the Google AI Professional Certificate, a new industry-validated credential designed to bridge the growing AI skills gap. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/friday-additional-weekly-holiday-pakistan-government-announces-new-austerity-and-energy-saving-plan/ Moving beyond basic theory, the program focuses on AI fluency, equipping workers with the practical, hands-on ability to integrate artificial intelligence into their daily professional workflows. As AI fundamentally reshapes the global economy, the demand for AI-literate talent has reached a critical tipping point. However, a significant ‘training gap’ threatens this transition; new research from Ipsos and Google reveals that while 70% of managers believe an AI-trained workforce is vital for success, only 14% of workers have actually been offered AI training. This certificate is designed to bridge that divide. Master AI by Doing The program is grounded in a “Learn by Doing” philosophy, featuring over 20 hands-on activities. To ensure learners have the best tools for the job, enrollment includes three months of no-cost access to Google AI Pro. This allows participants to practice directly with Google’s most advanced models within the tools they already use, such as Gmail, Google Docs, and Gemini in Google Sheets. A Curriculum Built for the Modern WorkplaceThe certificate is comprised of six comprehensive courses and a final capstone, all delivered by Google experts and AI practitioners: ● Course 1: AI Fundamentals – Master essential concepts and effective prompting. ● Course 2: AI for Brainstorming and Planning – Build detailed timelines and project plans. ● Course 3: AI for Research and Insights – Use Deep Research and NotebookLM to pressure-test ideas. ● Course 4: AI for Writing and Communicating – Adapt messaging for stakeholders and prep for presentations. ● Course 5: AI for Content Creation – Generate high-quality visual assets, video, and presentations. ● Course 6: AI for Data Analysis – Create visualizations and complex formulas using Gemini in Sheets. ● Capstone: AI for App Building – Master “vibe coding” to build custom, functional apps without writing a single line of code. Flexible, Employer-Recognized LearningDesigned for busy professionals, the entire program can be completed at the learner’s own pace in under 10 hours. Each of the seven modules offers a shareable digital certificate, allowing learners to showcase their progress on LinkedIn as they go.

AlphaX Reaches $100M Daily Trading Volume with High-Performance Solutions
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AlphaX Reaches $100M Daily Trading Volume with High-Performance Solutions

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Pakistan, March 11, 2026 – AlphaX, a high performance on-chain cryptocurrency exchange committed to delivering a simplified, efficient and reliable trading experience, today announced that it has reached a daily trading volume of $100 million. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/friday-additional-weekly-holiday-pakistan-government-announces-new-austerity-and-energy-saving-plan/ Leveraging advanced technology and robust security measures, AlphaX has achieved this significant milestone in weeks since its debut in February, attracting users from over 60 countries. This remarkable growth underscores AlphaX’s solid financial and technical foundations and its ability to deliver a seamless trading experience. Designed for institutional-grade performance, AlphaX optimizes market-making algorithms to ensure deep liquidity, offering comprehensive coverage of 131 mainstream tokens and altcoins, offering up to 200x leverage for perpetual trading. With its solid technical foundation, AlphaX brings trading speed to par with centralized exchange (CEX) standards in milliseconds. AlphaX integrates exceptional performance with a minimalist, professional interface for users of all levels, enabling easy, low-fee trading without lengthy verification processes. To ensure user security and protect assets, AlphaX employs Multi-Party Computation (MPC) and distributed key sharding to prevent key loss or theft. Furthermore, the platform enhances trust through smart contracts released under the MIT License and a transparent clearing mechanism, ensuring high reliability throughout its ecosystem. To celebrate this milestone, AlphaX is launching exclusive campaigns for new users. By signing up, depositing, trading, and completing specific tasks, new users can win prizes of up to $15,000, enjoy additional rebates, and receive physical gifts, including gadgets and Apple products.

Meta Moltbook Acquisition: Zuckerberg Expands AI Strategy with Reddit-Style AI Agent Forum
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Meta Moltbook Acquisition: Zuckerberg Expands AI Strategy with Reddit-Style AI Agent Forum

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Meta Moltbook Acquisition is the latest signal that the global race for artificial intelligence dominance is intensifying. In a strategic move aimed at strengthening its AI ecosystem, Meta has acquired Moltbook, a fast-growing Reddit-style online forum designed specifically for AI agents and developers. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/psx-find-relief-from-geopolitical-front-jumps-9697-points/ The acquisition brings Moltbook’s founders Matt Schlicht and Ben Parr into Meta’s rapidly evolving AI division, Meta Superintelligence Labs, further fueling the company’s ambitions to build next-generation AI systems that work seamlessly for individuals and businesses. The deal, first reported by Axios, underscores how tech giants are aggressively competing for AI talent and platforms capable of shaping the future of intelligent software. What Is Moltbook and Why Did Meta Want It? At its core, Moltbook is a social network for AI agents a place where autonomous software programs can be discovered, shared, and integrated by developers. Think of it as a hybrid between a developer directory and a Reddit-style community, where AI tools and agents can be listed, discussed, and connected with real-world use cases. According to Meta, the Meta Moltbook Acquisition opens up a new framework for how AI agents interact with humans and businesses. A Meta spokesperson explained that Moltbook’s always-active directory of agents represents a novel approach to organizing intelligent software, making it easier for developers and companies to find AI solutions for real-world tasks. Instead of browsing traditional app stores, developers could potentially discover autonomous AI tools capable of executing tasks, collaborating with other agents, and solving business problems. The AI Talent War: Zuckerberg vs OpenAI The Meta Moltbook Acquisition comes amid a fierce battle among technology giants to secure top AI talent. Recently, Mark Zuckerberg attempted to recruit Peter Steinberger, the creator of the popular open-source AI agent platform OpenClaw. However, Steinberger ultimately joined OpenAI instead. While Meta missed out on OpenClaw’s creator, acquiring Moltbook gives the company another strategic entry point into the growing ecosystem of AI agents. Steinberger has indicated that OpenClaw will continue operating independently, but the overlapping ecosystems could lead to deeper integrations in the future. How Meta Superintelligence Labs Fits Into the Strategy The Moltbook founders will now work within Meta Superintelligence Labs, the company’s flagship research hub for advanced AI systems. The lab is led by Alexandr Wang, Meta’s chief AI officer and founder of Scale AI. Meta reportedly invested $14 billion in Scale AI to recruit Wang and strengthen its AI leadership. Since joining Meta, Wang has been reshaping the company’s AI roadmap with a focus on: • AI agents capable of autonomous decision-making• enterprise-ready AI infrastructure• scalable AI platforms for developers The Meta Moltbook Acquisition could play a critical role in building a central hub for AI agent discovery and collaboration, which many analysts believe will become a core part of the AI economy. Why AI Agent Platforms Are the Next Big Tech Frontier Artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving beyond simple chatbots and assistants. The next wave of AI innovation is centered on autonomous agents systems capable of completing tasks independently, coordinating with other agents, and performing complex workflows. Platforms like Moltbook could help organize this emerging ecosystem by: • Creating directories of specialized AI agents• Enabling collaboration between different AI tools• Allowing businesses to easily deploy agent-based automation For Meta, integrating Moltbook could help transform its AI ecosystem into a marketplace for intelligent software, potentially reshaping how companies deploy automation and digital assistants. Financial Details Remain Undisclosed Meta has not revealed the financial terms of the Meta Moltbook Acquisition, but industry observers believe the deal’s true value lies in talent acquisition and ecosystem development rather than immediate revenue generation. In the AI arms race, access to skilled builders and innovative platforms often matters more than short-term profits. The Bigger Picture: Meta’s AI Future The Meta Moltbook Acquisition signals that Zuckerberg is doubling down on AI infrastructure and agent-driven platforms. With OpenAI, Google, and other tech giants accelerating their own AI strategies, the competition to build the dominant AI ecosystem is becoming one of the defining technology battles of the decade. If Meta succeeds in integrating Moltbook into its AI ecosystem, the platform could evolve into a central hub where AI agents are discovered, shared, and deployed globally. And in the rapidly changing world of artificial intelligence, the companies that control these ecosystems may ultimately shape how AI works for everyone.

PTA Concludes 5G Auction, Nets $507M as Jazz Grabs 190 MHz, Ufone 180 MHz, Zong 110 MHz
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PTA Concludes 5G Auction, Nets $507M as Jazz Grabs 190 MHz, Ufone 180 MHz, Zong 110 MHz

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Islamabad (10th March, 2026): Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has successfully concluded the allocation stage of the landmark Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) / 5G Spectrum Auction, marking a major step toward the rollout of 5G services in Pakistan. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/psx-find-relief-from-geopolitical-front-jumps-9697-points/ Three qualified operators Jazz, Ufone, and Zong participated in the auction, which offered 597.2 MHz of spectrum across six frequency bands (700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600 and 3500 MHz). The auction was conducted through a secure Electronic Auction System (EAS) with PTA’s Control Room established at its Headquarters in Islamabad. The process was managed by PTA in collaboration with international consultant NERA Economic Consulting. Operators participated remotely, while results of each round were publicly announced at the Islamabad Marriott Hotel in the presence of Print and Electronic media, on PTA’s website, and live broadcast on Pakistan Television to ensure transparency. During the allocation stage, a total of 480 MHz spectrum was sold. Jazz secured 190 MHz, Ufone 180 MHz, and Zong 110 MHz across different bands. The allocation stage concluded after three rounds of bidding. The Assignment Stage, to determine specific frequency positions within each band, will be held on 12th March, 2026. The auction conclusion ceremony was attended by Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mr. Attaullah Tarar and Minister for IT & Telecom Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja. The ministers appreciated PTA for conducting a fair, transparent, and efficient auction as directed by Honorable Prime Minster of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and describing it a significant step toward Pakistan’s digital transformation. Representatives of participating operators also appreciated the transparent process and PTA’s collaborative approach. The auction is expected to accelerate Pakistan’s digital economy, improve mobile broadband quality, and pave the way for next-generation 5G services nationwide.

BingX Launches P2P March Mega Spin Campaign with a $400,000 Prize Pool Copy
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BingX Launches P2P March Mega Spin Campaign with a $400,000 Prize Pool Copy

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Pakistan March 9, 2026 – BingX, a leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3-AI company, announced the launch of its P2P March Mega Spin campaign, a new initiative designed to reward users and compete for a $400,000 prize pool. The campaign offers participants the chance to win a range of prizes, including $777 gold bars, $555 in USDT rewards, and exclusive Mystery Boxes worth up to $300. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sbp-stays-cautious-policy-rate-unchanged-at-10-5-as-brent-spike-fuels-inflation-worries/ Built around a task-based participation model, the campaign gives users multiple ways to earn draw entries throughout the event period. Users can participate by completing qualifying actions such as making a first-time P2P deposit, reaching cumulative deposit milestones, executing eligible futures trades, and referring new users through the campaign’s referral link generator. This structure is designed to support both new user activation and continued engagement from more active participants. The launch also highlights BingX’s broader approach to campaign design, where platform exploration and user activity are rewarded. In its recently published Zero-Fee Carnival announcement, BingX introduced zero-fee trading across selected spot crypto and TradFi assets and paired the initiative with a spin-based promotion linked to user milestones such as registration, KYC, first trades, and cumulative trading activity. With P2P March Mega Spin, BingX continues to expand how users interact with the platform by turning everyday actions into new reward opportunities. Users can visit the official campaign page to explore the full event details and begin completing tasks to unlock their draw entries.

Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability: NCERT Issues High-Priority Alert
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Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability: NCERT Issues High-Priority Alert

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Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability has become more than just a precautionary phrase it is now a national priority. Pakistan’s National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) has issued a high-priority cybersecurity advisory warning of escalating digital threats amid rising geopolitical tensions in the region. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/veon-may-launch-starlink-in-pakistan-this-year-via-jazz-partnership/ Titled “Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability” (NCA-25.280226), the advisory signals a volatile digital landscape where state-sponsored actors, hacktivist networks, and cybercriminal groups may exploit instability to target Pakistan’s most sensitive sectors. The message is clear: the battlefield is no longer confined to borders it has moved into cyberspace. The Expanding Threat Landscape Under Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability According to NCERT, critical sectors such as defense, finance, telecommunications, and government infrastructure are facing elevated risks. Adversaries are no longer relying on basic hacking methods. Instead, they are deploying sophisticated techniques designed to evade detection and create maximum disruption. These emerging threats include: • Highly targeted spear-phishing campaigns that manipulate insiders.• Deepfake technology capable of impersonating public figures.• Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) aimed at long-term espionage.• Ransomware operations targeting banking systems. The consequences of a successful breach could ripple across the economy and public confidence. For instance, account takeovers could allow attackers to hijack official portals or media accounts, spreading misinformation within minutes. Supply chain infiltration could allow malicious code to slip through trusted vendors. Critical infrastructure attacks on energy grids, transport systems, or telecom networks could disrupt daily life nationwide. Key Attack Vectors Identified in the Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability Advisory NCERT’s advisory outlines several high-risk attack pathways currently under surveillance. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks may overwhelm emergency response systems and government portals, rendering essential services inaccessible. Deepfakes and synthetic media pose a unique risk by fabricating statements or videos of high-profile leaders, potentially escalating geopolitical tensions overnight. Spear-phishing campaigns are becoming more context-aware and personalized, increasing the likelihood of successful credential theft. Meanwhile, malicious mobile applications disguised as financial tools or news platforms may embed spyware, silently extracting sensitive data. Credential stuffing attacks where hackers exploit reused passwords remain a persistent vulnerability across institutions. Additionally, disinformation websites and coordinated social media campaigns could amplify confusion, creating psychological operations (PSYOPS) that destabilize public trust. Why Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability Demands Immediate Action The advisory underscores that hybrid warfare is no longer theoretical. Digital attacks are increasingly integrated into broader geopolitical strategies. The blending of cyber operations with information warfare represents a new frontier of national security challenges. Government departments, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure operators are being urged to: • Conduct immediate cybersecurity audits.• Strengthen endpoint monitoring systems.• Enforce strict password and multi-factor authentication policies.• Enhance real-time threat intelligence sharing.• Train personnel to identify social engineering tactics. In today’s interconnected economy, even a single compromised node can cascade into nationwide disruption. A Wake-Up Call for Public and Private Sectors The high-priority alert reflects more than precaution it reflects preparedness. As regional tensions fluctuate, cyber resilience becomes the backbone of economic stability and national security. Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability is not solely the responsibility of state institutions. Private enterprises, fintech companies, telecom providers, and even small businesses must align with robust cybersecurity frameworks. The digital economy thrives on trust. Protecting that trust is now a strategic imperative. The NCERT advisory serves as both warning and roadmap. As digital threats grow more complex, proactive defense strategies and heightened vigilance are essential. In an era where information flows instantly and attacks can be launched remotely, cybersecurity readiness defines resilience. Cyber Vigilance for Regional Instability is no longer optional it is the foundation of national stability in an increasingly uncertain world.

Mobile Phone Imports Jump 31.36% to $1.139 Billion in 7 Months
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Mobile Phone Imports Jump 31.36% to $1.139 Billion in 7 Months

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ISLAMABAD/KARACHI: Pakistan witnessed a substantial increase in mobile phone imports during the July-January period of fiscal year 2025-26, reflecting rising consumer demand for smartphones and related devices. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/multan-sultans-make-dramatic-return-to-psl-11-after-sialkot-stallionz-rebrand/ According to official statistics released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the value of mobile phone imports reached US$1,139.811 million in the first seven months. Strong Year-on-Year Growth Recorded This marks a 31.36% surge compared to US$867.685 million imported during the same period (July-January) of fiscal year 2024-25. The growth highlights accelerating market expansion despite broader economic challenges. In rupee terms, imports totaled Rs321.137 billion, up 33.07% from Rs241.330 billion a year earlier, influenced by currency fluctuations and higher volumes. Monthly Trends Show Continued Momentum January 2026 alone saw imports worth US$179.380 million, a 33.62% increase from US$134.243 million in January 2025. Compared to December 2025’s US$159.304 million, the month-on-month rise stood at 12.60%. These figures indicate sustained upward momentum in the sector throughout the fiscal year so far. Broader Trade Context Emerges While mobile imports climbed, overall merchandise exports declined by 7.30% to $20.462 billion during July-February 2025-26, down from $22.073 billion previously. Total imports, however, grew 8.06% to $45.504 billion. The contrast underscores the mobile phone category’s resilience amid mixed trade performance. Implications for Consumers and Industry The surge points to strong domestic appetite for newer models, possibly driven by digitalization, e-commerce growth, and replacement cycles. Local assembly operations continue, but imported finished units remain significant. Analysts note that such trends could support telecom sector expansion, though they add pressure on the current account if not balanced by exports or remittances. The data serves as a key indicator of consumer confidence and tech adoption in Pakistan. With smartphones integral to daily life, banking, and education, the import boom reflects evolving needs in an increasingly connected society. Policymakers may monitor these developments closely for potential adjustments in trade or taxation strategies.

OpenAI Strikes Deal to Deploy AI on U.S. Military Classified Networks
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OpenAI Strikes Deal to Deploy AI on U.S. Military Classified Networks

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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman revealed on February 27, 2026, that the company reached terms with the U.S. Department of War to deploy its AI models—including advanced systems like those powering ChatGPT—on classified networks. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-stock-market-decline-deepens-as-kse-100-slides-below-168100-ahead-of-imf-review/ The agreement allows deployment in secure, high-level environments, marking a major step for OpenAI in government and defense sectors. Ethical Boundaries Maintained Altman highlighted alignment on key red lines: no use for domestic mass surveillance and mandatory human oversight for any force application, including autonomous weapons. These principles, central to OpenAI’s safety framework, were incorporated via technical safeguards and contractual terms. The DoW reportedly agreed to reflect them in policy and practice. Context of Rival Fallout and Broader Impact The timing coincides with the Pentagon’s fallout with Anthropic, which sought similar restrictions but faced a government ban and supply-chain risk designation. President Trump ordered a phase-out of Anthropic tools across agencies. OpenAI’s deal fills the gap, potentially strengthening U.S. military AI capabilities. It reflects evolving dynamics where companies balance commercial interests, ethical stances, and national security demands in an increasingly competitive landscape. Observers note this could influence other AI firms’ government engagements and spur faster classified AI integration.

Data Vault to explore AI Collaboration with Punjab Govt
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Data Vault to explore AI Collaboration with Punjab Govt

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LAHORE: Senior leadership from Data Vault Pakistan, the country’s first sovereign AI data center, held a high-level meeting with H.E. Ali Mustafa Dar, the newly appointed Advisor to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Artificial Intelligence and Special Initiatives, to present collaboration proposals aimed at accelerating the province’s AI transformation agenda with the office of AI Punjab. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-afghanistan-conflict-2026-a-dangerous-escalation-unfolds/ The Data Vault delegation, comprising Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Syed Zeeshan Ali, Board Advisor Muddasir Saleem Malik, and Chief Innovation Officer Ahmed Hamdhan. COO Data Vault Pakistan Syed Zeeshan Ali presented a proposal for a partnership to support the company’s sovereign AI infrastructure to achieve the provincial government’s ambitious plans to position Punjab as a leading AI-enabled hub in South Asia. H.E. Dar, the son of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and son-in-law of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, was appointed to the newly created ministerial-level position earlier this month on a pro bono basis. His mandate includes driving innovation-led policy, promoting technology adoption, and implementing AI-based initiatives across Pakistan’s most populous province. Dar, who holds a software engineering degree from University College London and UMIST, has publicly stated his ambition to make Punjab the most AI-enabled province in South Asia. For Punjab, home to over 120 million people, sovereign AI infrastructure could accelerate digitization across governance, healthcare, education, agriculture, and public safety. Data Vault Pakistan, founded and led by CEO Mehwish Salman Ali, has rapidly positioned itself as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s sovereign AI ecosystem. Headquartered in Karachi, the company operates Pakistan’s first AI-ready data center equipped with NVIDIA enterprise-grade GPUs, offering GPU-as-a-Service and sovereign cloud capabilities to enterprises, government institutions, and startups. The company has forged a series of high-profile partnerships in recent months. A landmark collaboration with Telenor Pakistan launched the country’s first locally hosted AI cloud, ensuring sensitive national data remains within Pakistan’s borders. A strategic partnership with U.S.-based Rafay Systems is enabling Pakistan’s first Sovereign AI Cloud, while a deal with U.S. data center operator Datarocx is expected to unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in AI infrastructure investment.

SBP Launches “Cyber Shield” to Protect the Banking System and Customers
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SBP Launches “Cyber Shield” to Protect the Banking System and Customers

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As part of its Vision 2028 agenda, the SBP today announced the launch of “Cyber Shield – the Cyber Resilience Strategy for Regulated Entities”, a major initiative aimed at strengthening the safety and robustness of the country’s banking and financial system. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/attock-cement-public-offer-sparks-fresh-momentum-in-pakistans-cement-sector/ The strategy is designed to better protect banks and financial institutions from cyber threats, thus ensuring that people and businesses can continue to access financial services safely. It sets out a clear roadmap to help financial institutions strengthen their systems and controls, prevent cyber incidents, respond quickly when cyber threats materialize, and recover effectively from such incidents. As the banking ecosystem faces increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, the strategy aims to enhance cyber defenses of the regulated entities through a holistic, forward-looking and collaborative approach. It focuses on five key priorities: strengthening the ability of banks to withstand cyber incidents, improving governance and accountability for cybersecurity, encouraging cooperation and information-sharing across the financial sector, building skilled cyber talent, and continuously updating security practices to keep pace with new risks. The SBP will closely monitor both global and domestic cyber developments and will update the strategy as needed to address emerging threats. By strengthening cyber resilience across the banking sector, SBP aims to safeguard customers, support digital innovation in a secure environment and ensure financial stability.

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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