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Business

US Russian oil sanctions waiver extended to stabilize global oil markets as developing economies face rising energy costs

US Extends Waiver on Russian Oil Trade to Stabilize Global Supply

Focus Pakistan2026-04-18

WASHINGTON: The US Russian oil sanctions waiver has been extended for another month, allowing global markets temporary relief as Washington moves to stabilize supply and contain rising energy price risks. As per the US Department of Treasury, the relaxation period will end on May 16, during which time market players can participate in any deals ... Read more

UBL Profit Q1 2026 Hits Rs48.42 Billion Amid Strong Growth

Focus Pakistan2026-04-16

KARACHI: UBL Q1 2026 profit has surged to Rs48.42 billion, marking one of the strongest earnings performances in Pakistan’s banking sector this year. The results reflect robust growth across core income streams and improved financial performance. There is an increase in profits by 34 percent on an annualized basis due to the fact that UBL ... Read more

Pakistan Ends 7-Year Crypto Ban: SBP Greenlights Digital Assets Under New 2026 Act

Focus Pakistan2026-04-16

ISLAMABAD: With the implementation of Virtual Assets Act 2026, Pakistan is now on its journey towards a new era of digital financial regulation that SBP Ends crypto currency ban cryptocurrencies. The law is expected to provide an organized framework to the unorganized and informal industry sector. It also intends to ensure conformity of the financial ... Read more

Oil Prices Drop 2–3% as US-Iran Talks Continue

Focus Pakistan2026-04-14

LONDON: Oil prices dropped sharply on Monday owing to the signals that the United States and Iran are considering holding talks despite their tension, which did not cause any worry about possible lack of supply of oil. The Brent crude oil price declined to $96.66 per barrel, while the price of US crude oil remained ... Read more

Karachi Port Sets Record with Largest Fuel Delivery Operation

Focus Pakistan2026-04-14

KARACHI: Another record set by Karachi Port Trust KPT for marine fuel supply, as 4,900 metric tons of fuel oil have been supplied to an international ship through bunker vessels, which has been the biggest ever operation carried out in Pakistan. The authorities at the port stated that the activity occurred in the KPT area, ... Read more

SBP Allows Exchange Firms to Lock Dollar Rates

Focus Pakistan2026-04-13

KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan has launched a new forward rate facility under the amended remittance policy, which enables exchange firms to Lock Dollar Rates for short periods to avoid risks associated with fluctuations in currency value and enhance forex availability. Under the new system, exchange companies will be able to make forward sales ... Read more

Pakistan’s Economy to Grow 3.5% This Year, Projected to Increase 4.5% Next Year

Focus Pakistan2026-04-11

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Economic Growth is gradually improving, thanks to reforms and stability in macroeconomic conditions, according to the recent assessment by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). According to the report, however, economic performance has started showing signs of recovery owing to better fiscal discipline, inflation control and improved position on external front. Economic growth is ... Read more

APTMA Offers $2 Billion Fund Support After UAE Loan Repayment

Focus Pakistan2026-04-11

ISLAMABAD: In a move that could provide financial muscle for Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to replenish its foreign exchange reserves, the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has reportedly offered to raise up to $2 billion for placement with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) as the country prepares to repay an equal sum to the ... Read more

Etisalat PTCL privatization dues controversy highlighting unpaid telecom liabilities and $6 billion dispute in Pakistan

Transparency International Slams PTCL, Etisalat and UAE Over $6 Billion Liability Scandal

Focus Pakistan2026-04-10

ISLAMABAD: Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) has demanded that the federal government finally stop groveling and recover nearly $6 billion in outstanding liabilities from the UAE-based telecom giant, Etisalat. The anti-corruption watchdog fired off a high-stakes letter to Muhammad Ali, the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatization, exposing a twenty-one-year history of bad faith and ... Read more

MCB Bank deposits 2025 reach Rs2.3 trillion with strong current account and CASA growth

MCB Deposits Hit Rs2.3 Trillion as Growth Momentum Strengthens

Focus Pakistan2026-04-09

KARACHI: MCB Bank deposits witnessed an enormous growth spurt, surpassing Rs2.3 trillion, owing to the impressive growth in the current account segment along with the solid CASA ratio. Amidst a constantly changing macroeconomic environment, the bank managed to bolster its financial position by paying out substantial dividends to its stakeholders. MCB Bank Deposits 2025 Hit ... Read more