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Oil steady as OPEC retains demand forecasts

Oil prices were little changed on Tuesday as OPEC stuck by its forecast for demand growth this year and next, amid persistent tensions in the Middle East and beyond. Brent futures for May delivery were up 24 cents at $82.45 a barrel by 1420 GMT. The April US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude contract rose 31 cents at $78.24. On Tuesday, OPEC stuck to its forecast for relatively strong grow

Banks achieve 86% growth in profits

Pakistan’s banks listed on the stock market have reported an outstanding growth of 86% in their net profit in the year ended December 2023, boosting total earnings to a record high of Rs572 billion amid a higher interest rate season in the country. The banks have managed to achieve a record high profit despite economic slowdown and underperforming industrial activities in the country. In a b

PM pushes for IT sector expansion

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the submission of a comprehensive roadmap to boost IT exports. He stated that the government would take steps to fully utilise the billion-dollar potential of the country for IT exports, and ensure that young people are provided with the necessary facilities for education, skills development, and startups. The prime minister

PSX plunges by 953 points ahead of MPC meeting

Bears dominated the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday and dragged its benchmark index down sharply by 953 points by the day’s end. The KSE-100 index dropped by 953.60 points, or 1.45 per cent, to stand at 64,801.70 from the previous close of 65,755.30. It had reached a low of 64,64.66. Finally, the index closed at 64,801.70 points, contracting by 953.60 points from the previous close

Minister for inclusive approach to boost trade

ISLAMABAD: Highlighting the importance of aligning with global standards and adopting modern practices, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan has stressed the need for fully facilitating local and foreign investors believing that Pakistan can achieve significant strides through an inclusive approach. During a meeting with officials of the commerce ministry after assuming the charge, Mr Kamal express