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Stable Week for PKR

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The Pakistani rupee remained stable during the second week of November, showing only mild daily movements against major global currencies. Market sentiment stayed steady as foreign exchange reserves improved and inflows remained firm.

PKR Moves in a Narrow Range Against the US Dollar

State Bank of Pakistan data shows that the rupee opened the week on November 10 at 280.5554 (buying) and 280.9873 (selling) against the US dollar.
It moved slightly on November 11, closing at 280.5272 and 280.9523. The trend remained flat midweek, with the currency trading at 280.5300 and 280.9551 on November 12.
By November 14, the rupee appreciated marginally to 280.4632 (buying) and 280.8883 (selling), marking a small but positive weekly change.

Mixed Performance Against the Euro and British Pound

The rupee traded at 324.3851 and 324.8811 against the euro on November 10. It dipped slightly the next day but strengthened midweek and closed the week at 326.2704 and 326.7619, showing one of its better weekly performances.
Against the British pound, the currency experienced wider swings. It started the week at 369.0493 and 369.6345 but slipped over the next two sessions. The rupee later recovered and closed on November 14 at 368.6476 and 369.2014.

PKR Holds Steady Against Regional Currencies

The Chinese yuan fluctuated narrowly between 39.4491 and 39.5822 throughout the week.
The Saudi riyal traded between 74.8052 and 74.8936, while the UAE dirham remained stable, moving from 76.4328 and 76.5417 to 76.3638 and 76.4710 by week’s end.
The Japanese yen also showed minimal movement, closing at 1.8144 (buying) and 1.8170 (selling) on November 14.

Market Analysts Note Stable Conditions

Arif Habib Limited said the Pakistani rupee “appreciated against the USD and remained stable, closing at PKR 280.723.”
The brokerage noted an increase of 21.8 million US dollars in SBP foreign exchange reserves, bringing the total to 14.5 billion US dollars. Strong demand in the latest T-bill auction—492.9 billion rupees raised against a 550 billion rupees target—also supported confidence.
AKD Securities reported that SBP reserves rose by 22 million US dollars week-on-week. It added that the rupee appreciated by 0.04 percent, closing the week at 280.7 per US dollar.

Outlook for the Rupee

Analysts told Wealth Pakistan that the rupee’s stability reflects improved external conditions and steady inflows. However, global market developments and upcoming economic data may influence its direction in the weeks ahead.

Positive Week at PSX

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) ended the week on a positive note, with the KSE-100 Index continuing its upward movement. Despite low volumes and a narrow trading range, the index closed at 161,935.19 points, gaining 2,342.29 points week-on-week. Strength in fertilizer and cement stocks led the gains, even as overall activity remained subdued. Average weekly volumes fell 10.5 percent to 794 million shares, while the traded value dropped 1.5 percent to 127 million US dollars.

Sector Performance and Index Contributions

According to Arif Habib Limited, the fertilizer sector added 1,539 points to the index, followed by cement with 729 points. Exploration and production contributed 331 points, while textile composite added 112 points. Investment banks added 43 points during the week.
Negative contributions came from commercial banks, pharmaceuticals, auto assemblers, oil marketing companies and the technology sector. Scrip-wise, Fauji Fertilizer Company added 1,231 points, Engro Fertilizers 249 points, Maple Leaf Cement 233 points, Pakistan Petroleum Limited 202 points and Pioneer Cement 196 points.

Key Decliners and Market Pressures

National Bank of Pakistan weighed down the index by 89 points. Other major negative contributors included The Searle Company, Systems Limited, Pakistan State Oil and Millat Tractors Limited.

Macroeconomic Indicators Remain Stable

Macroeconomic data remained steady during the week. The government raised 492.9 billion rupees in the latest T-bill auction against a target of 550 billion rupees. Yields on one-month and three-month papers fell slightly, while the six-month tenor inched up. The twelve-month yield remained flat.
State Bank of Pakistan reserves increased by 21.8 million US dollars to reach 14.5 billion US dollars. The rupee remained broadly stable at 280.723 against the US dollar.

Economic Activity and Sector Trends

Roshan Digital Account inflows reached 11,313 million US dollars as of October 2025. Out of this, 1,903 million US dollars were repatriated, while 7,263 million US dollars were utilized locally.
Auto sales improved to 17.3 thousand units in October 2025, rising 32 percent year-on-year. Cumulative sales for 4MFY26 stood at 59.6 thousand units, up 46 percent year-on-year. Net metering’s share in power generation grew by 57 basis points in September 2025.

Market View and Analyst Opinions

Syed Zafar Abbas of Zahid Latif Khan Securities told Wealth Pakistan that the market remained “in a normal situation,” oscillating between 159,000 and 161,000 points. He said Friday’s session ended positively above 161,900 points.
He noted strong support from fertilizers after Fauji Fertilizer’s inclusion in the KMI-30 Fertilizer Index. Cement gained momentum due to news reports about Maple Leaf Cement’s interest in acquiring Pioneer Cement. Oil and gas stocks also showed mild support.

Outlook for the Coming Week

Analysts at AKD Securities expect momentum to remain intact. They cite the IMF’s second-review staff-level agreement, improving global credit outlooks and possible foreign inflows from the United States and Saudi Arabia as supportive factors.
According to the brokerage, the KSE-100 continues to trade at attractive valuations of 7.6 times earnings, with a dividend yield of 6.8 percent.

Pakistan seeks new CPEC Initiatives; talks held with Qatar and US

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 16 (Wealth Pakistan): Pakistan has increased its diplomatic and development engagements as Pakistan seeks new CPEC initiatives while also expanding cooperation with Qatar and the United States. According to the Monthly Development Update for November 2025, these interactions aim to strengthen investment, improve technical collaboration and support long-term sectoral development.

Pakistan Seeks New CPEC Initiatives Under Phase-II

A review meeting on CPEC Phase-II was held on 8 October 2025 following the 14th Joint Cooperation Committee meeting. The Ministry of Planning directed federal ministries to prepare new projects aligned with the expanded scope of CPEC Phase-II.
The report notes that progress in Special Economic Zones must speed up to deliver stronger public benefits. The government considers the 14th JCC the start of a new phase in CPEC cooperation. The 15th JCC is expected to be held in Pakistan next year.

Sectoral Cooperation and Livelihood Corridor Approach

The CPEC Phase-II agenda includes agriculture, industry, information technology, youth skill development and people-to-people exchanges.
Pakistan aims to follow a Livelihood Corridor approach inspired by China’s regional development model. An MoU has been signed between the Ministry of Planning and China’s Development Research Center to guide this approach and support export-oriented reforms.

Qatar Engagement and Digital Investment Plans

The update notes growing cooperation with Qatar. A meeting between the Ministry of Planning and Digital Nexus explored new investment opportunities.
Digital Nexus proposed a digital platform to connect over 100 Chinese companies with potential investment prospects in Pakistan. Minerals such as bauxite and sea salt were identified as areas of interest. Discussions are underway to formalise the partnership through an MoU.

Cooperation Under the US–Pakistan Knowledge Corridor

Pakistan also held a consultative meeting with the US Embassy to revive and strengthen the US–Pakistan Knowledge Corridor.
The initiative aims to expand scholarships, doctoral research opportunities and advanced academic training for Pakistani students.

Strengthening Global Partnerships

The report states that Pakistan views cooperation with China, Qatar and the United States as vital for industrial growth, digital development and enhanced export competitiveness.
According to the update, Pakistan seeks new CPEC initiatives while accelerating follow-up actions with partner countries to convert proposals into formal agreements.

Outlook for Future Collaboration

The Monthly Development Update concludes that these engagements will help improve productivity, increase investment flows and support sustainable development across major sectors.

Govt launches Rs122bn Green Pakistan Programme

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 16 (Wealth Pakistan): The federal government has launched the Rs122bn Green Pakistan Programme, a national initiative that aims to increase forest cover, rehabilitate rangelands and strengthen biodiversity conservation. According to the Monthly Development Update for November 2025, the programme has been approved and is scheduled for completion by 2028.

Scope of the Green Pakistan Programme

The programme is designed to address rising environmental degradation and support long-term climate resilience. It includes forest ecosystem restoration, rangeland improvement, upgraded wildfire management systems and measures to promote sustainable use of natural resources. These interventions support Pakistan’s commitments under global and national climate frameworks.

Forest Restoration and Land Rehabilitation

Large-scale reforestation efforts will be carried out across several ecological zones. The programme also focuses on improving the health of existing forests, supporting natural regeneration and protecting biodiversity. Activities include soil conservation, land restoration and strengthening natural resource management practices. These measures will help reverse the decline in forest cover while improving ecological stability.

Wildfire Prevention and Climate Preparedness

A key component of the initiative is wildfire prevention and early response. Plans include improving fire detection tools, enhancing emergency preparedness and upgrading the capacity of provincial forest departments to respond to climate-driven environmental threats. This will help safeguard forests, rangelands and nearby communities.

Strong Community Participation

The programme includes significant community involvement in planning, conservation and restoration activities. Local participation is expected to improve ownership, ensure sustainable outcomes and support eco-friendly livelihoods. Modern monitoring tools and digital tracking systems will also be introduced to document progress and ensure transparent implementation.

Green Jobs and Livelihood Support

The initiative will create green employment through nursery development, plantation drives, ecosystem restoration and related forestry work. These opportunities will benefit rural communities and support income generation in areas with limited economic options.

Long-Term Impact of the Rs122bn Green Pakistan Programme

The Rs122bn Green Pakistan Programme is expected to deliver long-term environmental, social and economic benefits. It will enhance water recharge, reduce soil erosion, protect natural habitats and contribute to a more climate-resilient Pakistan. The programme will be implemented with provincial departments, development partners and relevant government agencies, under the oversight of the Ministry of Planning.

Rs259bn development projects to create 100,000 jobs

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 16 (Wealth Pakistan): Pakistan has approved a new set of Rs259bn development projects during October 2025, expected to create nearly 100,000 jobs, according to the Monthly Development Update.

Wide Range of Rs259bn Development Projects Reviewed

The report notes that 29 agenda items were reviewed during the month. These included 24 development projects and five concept clearance papers.
Out of these, 12 development projects and five concept papers were approved. Six projects were referred to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council for final approval.
Meanwhile, six schemes were deferred for more technical review. The total portfolio presented in October amounted to Rs259 billion with major allocations for agriculture, health, power, housing, governance, social welfare and transport.

Agriculture and Food Security Gains Priority

Two large agriculture projects worth Rs116.5 billion were recommended to ECNEC. These schemes aim to improve access to agricultural water, enhance productivity and support higher farm incomes.
Another Rs7.35 billion project was approved to strengthen the animal health system. It will focus on surveillance, disease control and traceability to meet international standards.
According to the Planning Ministry, these investments are important for food security and climate-resilient farming.

Governance and Public Sector Reforms

The CDWP approved a Rs3.08 billion governance project to digitize public investment management. The initiative will also improve procurement, financial management and planning systems.
The ministry states that the project will support data-driven decision-making and increase transparency in public institutions.

Health Projects to Improve Service Delivery

Three health-related schemes worth Rs9.96 billion were approved. They aim to improve emergency care, strengthen diabetes management and expand access to insulin in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The report notes that these projects will help reduce the disease burden and improve health services for vulnerable groups.

Support for Higher Education and Research

A Rs1.47 billion project was approved for veterinary and animal sciences education. It will upgrade research facilities and improve linkages between agricultural value chains and academic institutions.
According to the update, the scheme will help strengthen the livestock sector through better training and research.

Housing and Urban Planning Initiatives

The physical planning and housing portfolio included two major schemes. One of them, a Rs52.19 billion wastewater treatment project, was recommended to ECNEC.
The initiative aims to reduce groundwater pollution, improve water quality downstream of Lahore and restore aquatic ecosystems.
The second project was deferred for additional review.

Clean Energy Projects for AJ&K

Three energy projects worth Rs16.02 billion were approved for Azad Jammu and Kashmir. They are designed to improve electricity supply, support clean energy and increase the use of indigenous hydropower resources.

Major Social Welfare Investment

A Rs64.40 billion social protection program was recommended to ECNEC. The project focuses on maternal, newborn and child health in rural Sindh.
It also aims to improve the coordination of provincial social protection systems and expand essential services for vulnerable households.

Transport and Communications Studies

Transport projects discussed during the month included feasibility studies for new Bus Rapid Transit corridors. Two studies were approved.
A third study, focused on upgrading an existing rail line to support speeds of up to 160 km per hour, was referred to ECNEC for further consideration.

Job Creation and Long-Term Growth

The Planning Ministry estimates that recent approvals will create 2,501 new posts in the short term. Nearly 95,500 direct and indirect jobs are expected over the next five to seven years.
The update states that these projects will support national priorities by expanding infrastructure, improving governance and strengthening public services.

Government Focus on Development Spending

The ministry notes that the October approvals reflect the government’s commitment to speeding up development spending and improving project delivery.
According to the report, the approved portfolio will help support Pakistan’s long-term growth and service delivery across key sectors.

AJK to receive Rs16.02 billion for three new hydropower schemes

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 16 (Wealth Pakistan): Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K) will receive three new hydropower projects worth Rs16.02 billion. The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives shared the details in its Monthly Development Update for November 2025.

Projects Cleared to Meet Local Power Needs

The Central Development Working Party approved the schemes in October 2025. Demand for electricity in AJ&K is rising due to population growth and the expansion of local industries.
As a result, the government aims to use the region’s natural water resources for clean and affordable power. The new schemes will reduce dependence on imported fuels and support the renewable energy share in the national grid.

Efforts to Improve Electricity Supply

The projects will improve electricity supply in several districts of AJ&K. They will also help reduce power shortages and support local distribution systems.
In addition, the schemes will follow approved procedures for design, procurement and construction through regional agencies.

Evaluated Through Standard Process

Each scheme went through the CDWP appraisal process. The review covered technical strength, economic feasibility and expected social impact.
The construction work will create jobs. Later, households, small businesses and public services will benefit from better energy reliability.

Linked to Broader Sector Reforms

The government is working on wider reforms to support sustainable power generation. For FY2025-26, the energy sector received a PSDP allocation of Rs122.65 billion.
However, expenditures during July to October were recorded at Rs2.54 billion. The approved hydropower schemes are part of the effort to reduce exposure to global fuel prices and use more domestic resources.

Monitoring and Timely Progress

The projects will be tracked through the Ministry’s Monitoring and Evaluation system. In October, the system reviewed 22 development projects against a target of 19.
This mechanism will help identify delays, manage costs and ensure timely progress.

Support for Regional Development

These schemes support wider development activities in AJ&K and Gilgit-Baltistan. The two regions received Rs81.80 billion under the PSDP for the ongoing fiscal year.
Stable electricity plays a key role in improving economic activity, supporting social services and expanding local opportunities.

Step Toward Long-Term Stability

The Monthly Development Update concludes that the three hydropower projects will strengthen the region’s energy system. Once completed, they will support reliable electricity, attract investment and improve living standards in AJ&K.

Best foods and drinks before and after a flu shot

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (Wealth Pakistan): Health experts say that eating nutritious foods and staying hydrated before and after a flu vaccination can make the experience smoother and help the body recover faster.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities, getting a flu shot every year — typically in autumn and winter — remains the best protection against influenza and its complications.

Before the Flu Shot: Hydrate and Eat Light

Flu vaccines are safe and effective, though mild side effects such as a low-grade fever, muscle pain, or fatigue may occur. Nutrition experts recommend proper hydration and light, balanced snacks to help reduce dizziness and nausea.

Preventive cardiology dietitian Michelle Routhenstein advises drinking water or herbal tea and having a light snack before vaccination. “A banana with nut butter or yogurt with oats keeps blood sugar stable and helps prevent lightheadedness,” she explained.

Şebnem Ünlüişler, a genetic engineer and longevity specialist at the London Regenerative Institute, said stabilizing blood sugar and staying hydrated can prevent faintness. “Even mild dehydration can increase dizziness,” she noted, recommending water or an electrolyte drink before the jab.

After the Flu Shot: Eat Balanced and Anti-Inflammatory Foods

After vaccination, experts suggest a nutrient-rich meal to support the immune system as it forms antibodies.

Nutritional therapist Elena Rolt said that the body goes through mild inflammation and oxidative stress while building immunity, making balanced nutrition essential. “Protein aids antibody production, beta-glucans from mushrooms boost immune response, probiotics support gut health, and vitamin C reduces oxidative stress,” she explained.

Rolt recommended chicken broth with garlic, onions, leafy greens, and mushrooms, paired with berry-based drinks such as cranberry or sea buckthorn tea with honey. “This combination supports recovery and reduces mild side effects,” she said.

Ünlüişler added that turmeric and oily fish rich in omega-3s help manage inflammation without interfering with immune function. “Lean meats, legumes, and tofu supply amino acids needed for antibody production,” she added.

Stay Hydrated to Support Recovery

Hydration is just as important after a flu shot as before it. Rolt said that water, herbal teas, or broths help regulate body temperature and keep nutrients circulating. “Staying hydrated may reduce side effects like headache, fatigue, and muscle soreness,” she noted.

Ünlüişler added that fluids assist the immune system by maintaining temperature and easing post-vaccine symptoms. “Combining hydration, balanced nutrition, and anti-inflammatory foods creates the best internal environment for the immune system to build protection,” she said.

Healthy Eating Throughout Flu Season

Experts also stress that maintaining a healthy diet during flu season helps boost immunity. Routhenstein recommended foods rich in zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E.

She said that complementing vaccination with nutrient-dense foods lowers the risk of infection and supports faster recovery if illness occurs.

This news was originally published by Medical News Today.

Top Zelensky officials resign amid $100m graft probe

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KYIV, Nov 12 (BBC): A major corruption scandal has engulfed Ukraine’s government, forcing two senior ministers to resign following an investigation into a $100 million embezzlement scheme in the energy sector.

President Volodymyr Zelensky called for the resignation of Energy Minister Svitlana Grynchuk and Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko after anti-corruption agencies revealed evidence of large-scale graft involving top officials and contractors.

Allegations of Widespread Embezzlement

According to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP), the network of officials allegedly collected kickbacks from contractors working with Enerhoatom, the national nuclear energy operator. The investigation lasted 15 months and included more than 1,000 hours of audio recordings.

NABU said the group systematically received commissions ranging from 10 to 15 percent of contract values. The funds were allegedly laundered and transferred abroad, including to Russia. Authorities released photographs showing bags filled with cash believed to be part of the scheme.

The money was reportedly laundered through an office in Kyiv linked to the family of former Ukrainian lawmaker and current Russian senator Andriy Derkach.

Ministers and Business Figures Named in Probe

Some of those implicated are close to President Zelensky. Justice Minister Halushchenko and several senior officials allegedly accepted illegal payments from contractors building fortifications to protect energy infrastructure from Russian strikes.

Those named in the investigation include former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov and businessman Timur Mindich, a co-owner of Zelensky’s former TV studio Kvartal95, who has reportedly left the country.

Halushchenko denied wrongdoing, saying he would defend himself against the accusations. Grynchuk also rejected any misconduct, stating on social media that she had “not violated the law in any way.”

Political and International Fallout

The scandal comes amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, including substations that power nuclear plants. The revelations have renewed scrutiny of Ukraine’s corruption challenges and raised alarm among its Western allies.

Despite a decade of work by NABU and SAP, corruption remains deeply entrenched in Ukraine’s political system. Earlier this year, mass protests erupted when legislation threatened the independence of the two anti-corruption agencies.

Public pressure and concern from G7 ambassadors prompted Zelensky to reverse those changes. However, the latest case has revived doubts about his government’s commitment to reform and transparency.

Analysts warn that the scandal could affect Ukraine’s relations with the European Union, which granted the country candidate status on the condition that it strengthen anti-corruption reforms. NABU continues to release new evidence daily as the investigation widens.

This news was originally reported by BBC.

Government moves to revive Pakistan Steel Mills, rules out privatisation

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (INP–Wealth Pakistan): The government has decided to revive the Pakistan Steel Mills instead of privatizing it. The step is part of a wider plan to rebuild the country’s manufacturing base under the upcoming National Industrial Policy 2025. Officials see the move as vital for long-term economic growth and industrial expansion.

Steel Mills to Be Revived, Not Sold

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan said the government viewed the revival of the steel industry as a national priority. He said no country could industrialize without strong base industries such as steel, plastic, and rubber. Their absence, he explained, pushes up production costs and weakens the manufacturing chain.

He said three private groups are already in contact with the government to help rebuild the plant. The Pakistan Steel Mills will be revived, not sold. While the First Women Bank has been privatized and Pakistan International Airlines will follow, the government will retain control of the steel mill because of its strategic value.

Policy Shift Toward Industrial Growth

According to Haroon Akhtar, Pakistan has reached a turning point. The focus is now shifting from short-term stabilization to long-term structural reform. The National Industrial Policy 2025 was prepared in consultation with the State Bank of Pakistan, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, the Federal Board of Revenue, and major chambers of commerce.

He said the policy aims to restore investor confidence and expand industrial capacity. It also seeks to link Pakistan with regional and global value chains. Meanwhile, several macroeconomic indicators have started improving. Government borrowing has declined, interest rates have dropped from 22 percent to 11 percent, and interest payments have reduced. These improvements, he added, have helped narrow the fiscal deficit.

However, Pakistan cannot yet use the available fiscal space to grant tax concessions while it remains under the International Monetary Fund programme.

New Incentives for Private Investment

Under the new policy, tax rates will be rationalized to promote business activity and improve revenue collection. Banks that provide more than 20 percent of their credit to the private sector will qualify for lower tax rates.

Haroon Akhtar said the industrial policy rests on eight pillars. These include tariff and tax reforms, energy sector restructuring, and incentives for new industries such as electric vehicles, batteries, and data centers.

Broader Industrial Measures Planned

He said the government will also modernize insolvency laws and improve protection for intellectual property rights. A new land-lease model will make industrial plots more affordable. In addition, single customs-bonded warehouses will be set up at major Special Economic Zones to ease trade and investment.

Revival Marks Industrial Turning Point

Haroon Akhtar said the revival of the Pakistan Steel Mills would mark a new chapter in Pakistan’s industrial development. It would create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen the manufacturing base. He said this effort was not about selling state assets but about rebuilding the foundation of the national industrial economy.

Mellon Blue diamond ring fetches $25 million at Geneva auction

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GENEVA, Nov 12 (Reuters) – The Mellon Blue diamond ring, a vivid blue gem weighing 9.51 carats, has sold for 25 million U.S. dollars at a Christie’s auction in Geneva. The rare piece once belonged to Rachel “Bunny” Mellon, an American philanthropist and close friend of Jacqueline Kennedy.

Exceptional gem sets high standard

Christie’s said the internally flawless, pear-shaped Mellon Blue diamond ring is mounted on a swirling band design. The diamond was originally set as a pendant by Mellon herself. In 2014, it sold for 32.6 million dollars, the year she passed away at the age of 103.

Historic record and comparison

That 2014 sale marked the highest price ever paid for a coloured diamond at the time, according to Christie’s. However, the record was later broken by the “Oppenheimer Blue,” which sold for more than 57 million dollars in Geneva in 2016.

Mellon’s legacy and cultural link

Rachel Mellon, an art collector and horticulturalist, came from a wealthy American family and married into the Mellon banking dynasty. She was admired for her refined taste and passion for landscape design.
Her most famous work was the redesign of the White House Rose Garden during the Kennedy administration. The same garden was later renovated during the Trump presidency, keeping much of Mellon’s original layout intact.

Growing demand for rare gems

Experts say that collector demand for rare coloured diamonds, including the Mellon Blue diamond ring, has remained strong. Such gemstones continue to attract global buyers seeking both luxury and investment value. The Geneva sale again confirmed that blue diamonds remain among the most desirable and valuable gems in the world.

This news was originally published by Reuters.