Robust economic data amid an easing of political noise, the stock market maintained its record-setting streak by turning in a stellar performance on extensive mutual fund buying that sent the index soaring by a record point-wise weekly gain of 7,697 points in the outgoing week. Arif Habib Ltd said the market surged to a record high of 109,478 points, driven by improved inflation data, which dro
Better internet access has opened doors to new possibilities for Pakistan’s youth. Young freelancers use these opportunities to earn a livelihood for their families. From technology companies in major cities to remote workers using their 4G internet in villages, Pakistanis are excelling and competing with global talent. As of 2024, our freelancers rank 4th globally with over 400 million annual rem
Europe’s struggling industries are bracing for a new gas price shock over the coming winter months, as colder weather depletes stocks, competition with Asia for liquefied natural gas intensifies, and the prospect of reduced Russian supplies looms. Since the energy crisis of 2022, when gas prices peaked at nearly 350 euros per megawatt hour (MWh), dozens of firms across Europe have closed factor
Pakistan’s trade deficit with the Middle East widened 10.87 per cent to $4.781 billion in the first four months of 2024-25 from $4.312bn owing to the rise in petroleum imports from the region. According to data compiled by the State Bank of Pakistan, the soaring trade deficit would concern policymakers mainly because of rising petroleum products from the region in the current fiscal year. Pe
Minister for Industries, Production and National Food Security Rana Tanveer has taken notice of farmers’ complaints regarding the low prices of sugarcane offered by sugar mills and sought a report from provincial cane commissioners on sugar prices. Chairing a meeting of the Sugar Advisory Board on Saturday, the minister emphasised that the exploitation of farmers would not be tolerated and str