Category: Business

The most important business news, explained in a young, easy to understand way. News that affects young career professionals.

  • Gold prices continue to surge, per tola rate hits Rs237,600

    Gold prices continue to surge, per tola rate hits Rs237,600

    Gold prices in Pakistan saw a sustained uptrend on the first trading day of the month, following a surge in the global market.

    The precious metal achieved a fresh record high internationally, reflecting its continued allure among investors.

    In Pakistan, the price per tola of gold reached Rs237,600, marking an increase of Rs2,800 throughout the day.

    According to data provided by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price for 10 grammes of gold stood at Rs203,704, showing a rise of Rs2,401 compared to previous figures.

    Notably, gold prices had remained relatively stable at Rs234,800 per tola just two days prior, underscoring the recent market volatility.

    In contrast, silver rates remained steady at Rs2,600 per tola during the same period.

    Over the past seven sessions, gold has witnessed a notable increase of Rs9,400 per tola in the local market, reflecting strong investor sentiment and demand.

    Meanwhile, in the international arena, gold commanded a premium of $20, reaching an unprecedented high of $2,278 per ounce on Friday.

    This marked a $24 increase from previous levels, as highlighted by APGJSA. The surge in global prices further underscores the precious metal’s status as a safe-haven asset amidst economic uncertainties.

  • Inflation in Pakistan dips to 20.7% in March

    Inflation in Pakistan dips to 20.7% in March

    Pakistan witnessed a significant downturn in headline inflation as it dipped to 20.7 per cent year-on-year in March, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Monday.

    This marks a notable decline from February’s figure of 23.1 per cent. Additionally, on a month-on-month basis, inflation rose by 1.7 per cent.

    Notably, this is the lowest inflation reading since May 2022, when it stood at 13.8 per cent, as reported by JS Global.

    It also signifies a remarkable milestone, being the first time in over three years that the Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation figure has fallen below the crucial policy rate, which presently sits at 22 per cent.

    The July-March average inflation now stands at 27.22 per cent, slightly higher than the same period last year at 27.19 per cent.

    The inflation figure, coming in lower than the government’s projections, adds weight to the anticipation of a reduction in the key interest rate.

    In its ‘Monthly Economic Update and Outlook’ report released on Friday, the Ministry of Finance forecasted CPI-based inflation to range between 22.5-23.5 per cent for March 2024.

    Despite the recent upward revision of petrol prices and the onset of Ramadan, inflation in March has been perceived at a moderate level, according to the ministry.

    The government’s announcement of a relief package for Ramadan, with an increased allocation from Rs7.5 billion to Rs12.5 billion, is expected to mitigate the impact of heightened demand during the religious festival.

    Moreover, the moderation of inflationary pressures is attributed partially to the phenomenon of the high base effect, as highlighted in the outlook report.

    Global factors have also played a role in shaping inflation dynamics, as noted by brokerage house Arif Habib Limited (AHL). AHL’s report predicts a further decline in inflation, estimating a year-on-year headline inflation rate of 20.2 per cent for March 2024.

    Similarly, IGI Securities projects the national CPI to grow at a year-on-year rate of 20.3 per cent, with a monthly growth of +1.4 per cent compared to February 2024.

    Despite the government’s recent increase in gasoline prices, experts anticipate inflation to remain below 20 per cent in the upcoming months, primarily due to the high base effect.

    This development fuels speculation regarding potential monetary policy adjustments in the near future.

  • Pakistani rupee gains only Rs1.16 against US dollar throughout March

    Pakistani rupee gains only Rs1.16 against US dollar throughout March

    In March, the Pakistani rupee (PKR) demonstrated resilience, maintaining stability against the US dollar (USD) while marking slight gains.

    Throughout the month, the PKR experienced marginal fluctuations, witnessing minor increments and decrements in value.

    Despite this, the overall trajectory showcased a modest uptick, with the local currency gaining 1.16 rupees against the USD, concluding the month at Rs277.95 per USD.

    In Friday’s trading session alone, the PKR exhibited a noteworthy appreciation, strengthening by 8.61 paisa against the greenback.

    During today’s trading activities, the currency displayed a range, reaching an intraday high bid of 278.45 and a low ask of 280.41.

    Notably, throughout the current financial year, the PKR has displayed resilience, appreciating by 8.04 rupees against the Dollar, reflecting a 2.89 per cent increase. Similarly, within the scope of the current calendar year, the PKR has witnessed a gain of 3.91 rupees, equating to a 1.41 per cent appreciation.

    In parallel, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) undertook strategic financial operations, including a reverse repo and Shariah Compliant Modarabah-based Open Market Operation (OMO) today.

    Through these interventions, the SBP injected a cumulative total of Rs2.71 trillion into the market, underscoring efforts to maintain liquidity and stability within the financial landscape.

  • Weekly inflation inches down, yearly SPI surges

    Weekly inflation inches down, yearly SPI surges

    The Weekly Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) for the Combined Group saw a slight dip of 0.09 per cent week over week (WoW) for the week ending March 28, 2024.

    However, compared to the same period last year, the SPI surged by 29.41 per cent, as revealed by data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).

    The Combined Index stood at 323.20, a slight decrease from 323.50 the previous week, while it was considerably higher at 249.75 a year ago.

    Among the 51 items monitored, prices of 04 (7.84 per cent) items increased, 18 (35.30 per cent) items decreased, and 29 (56.86 per cent) items remained stable during the week.

    Notable decreases were observed in the prices of Tomatoes (12.04 per cent), Wheat Flour (3.80 per cent), Garlic (2.59 per cent), LPG (2.42 per cent), and Wheat (2.09 per cent).

    Conversely, significant increases were noted in the prices of Chicken (4.92 per cent), Eggs (1.61 per cent), Shirting (0.56 per cent), and Rice Irri 6/9 (0.15 per cent).

    The weekly SPI percentage change across all income groups indicated a decrease, ranging between -0.03 per cent and -0.27 per cent.

    The lowest income group experienced the most significant weekly fall of 0.27 per cent, while the highest income group saw a decrease of 0.03 per cent.

    On a yearly basis, SPI increased across all income segments, ranging between 22.15 per cent and 33.5 per cent.

    The Lowest Income Group recorded a 22.15 per cent increase, while the highest income group saw a rise of 26.58 per cent.

    In terms of specific commodities, the average price of Sona urea stood at Rs4,828 per 50 kg bag, marking a marginal decrease of 0.02 per cent compared to last week, yet reflecting a significant increase of 69.56 per cent compared to last year.

    Meanwhile, the average Cement price was recorded at Rs1,220 per 50 kg bag, showing a slight decrease of 0.06 per cent compared to the previous week but an increase of 8.47 per cent compared to prices last year.

  • Gold price increases by Rs3,800 per tola

    Gold price increases by Rs3,800 per tola

    Gold prices in Pakistan surged further on Friday, propelled by a remarkable surge in the global market.

    The price of gold per tola soared to an unprecedented level, hitting Rs234,800 in local markets after witnessing a substantial gain of Rs3,800 within the span of a single day.

    According to data provided by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price for 10 grammes of gold stood at Rs201,303, marking a notable increase of Rs3,258 from the previous day’s rates.

    Thursday had already seen a significant uptick in gold prices in Pakistan, with an increase of Rs1,500 per tola.

    Meanwhile, the international gold market witnessed a similar trend, with gold rates surging to a historic high of $2,254 per ounce.

    This marked a substantial gain of $40, accompanied by a $20 premium. APGJSA reported these figures, underscoring the remarkable momentum in the global gold market.

    In parallel, silver prices also experienced an upward trajectory, rising by Rs20 to reach Rs2,600 per tola, further highlighting the general bullish sentiment in precious metal markets.

  • PSX hits historic high: KSE-100 closes at record-breaking 67,142

    PSX hits historic high: KSE-100 closes at record-breaking 67,142

    Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) KSE-100 index surged to unprecedented heights in Thursday’s trading, culminating at a historic peak of 67,142.12, marking a substantial uptick of 594.34 points or 0.89 per cent.

    Throughout the trading day, the index demonstrated unwavering positivity, cresting at an intraday zenith of 67,246.03 (+698.24) and a nadir of 66,690.94 (+143.15) points, reflecting robust investor sentiment and confidence in the market’s trajectory.

    Trading activity was buoyant, with the KSE-100 index witnessing a total turnover of 231.314 million shares, underlining robust investor participation and liquidity in the market.

    The stellar performance of the KSE-100 index was underpinned by the commendable contributions of various sectors, notably Commercial Banks, which bolstered the index with 184.39 points, followed by Fertiliser (89.9 points), Cement (85.95 points), Oil & Gas Exploration Companies (49.32 points), and Oil & Gas Marketing Companies (27.36 points).

    Conversely, certain sectors experienced marginal declines, with Leather & Tanneries leading the downturn with 6.69 points, trailed by Transport (2.26 points), Real Estate Investment Trust (0.69 points), Miscellaneous (0.35 points), and Modarabas (0.31 points), albeit their impact remained subdued in the broader market context.

    In parallel, the Pakistani rupee (PKR) demonstrated resilience against the US dollar in the interbank market, appreciating marginally by approximately 1 paisa.

    The currency closed the trading session at PKR 278.03 per USD, exhibiting strength compared to the preceding session’s closure at PKR 278.04 per USD.

    During intraday trading, the rupee reached a peak bid of 278.1 and a trough ask of 278, reflecting stability and confidence in the domestic currency’s valuation.

    In the open market, exchange companies quoted the dollar at PKR 278.04 for buying and PKR 280.41 for selling, indicative of prevailing market dynamics and demand-supply dynamics.

  • Pakistan’s CPI-based inflation predicted to decline to 20%

    Pakistan’s CPI-based inflation predicted to decline to 20%

    Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation in Pakistan is forecasted to witness a further decline, potentially settling at approximately 20 per cent on a year-on-year (YoY) basis for March.

    This projection marks a decrease from the 23.1 per cent recorded in February, as indicated by a report from Arif Habib Limited (AHL) released on Thursday.

    The anticipated headline inflation rate for March 2024 is projected to stand at 20.2 per cent YoY, reflecting a notable downturn from the preceding month’s figure of 23.1 per cent YoY.

    AHL’s report also highlights a substantial drop compared to the same period in the previous year, March 2023, when the YoY inflation rate was registered at 35.4 per cent.

    Consequently, it is envisaged that the average CPI for the first nine months of the fiscal year 2023-24 will hover around a 27.2 per cent YoY level, consistent with the figures observed during the same period last year (SPLY), according to the brokerage house.

    On a monthly basis, AHL’s projections for March 2024 suggest a modest increase of 1.3 per cent, contrasting with the average month-on-month (MoM) rise of 1.7 per cent recorded over the first eight months of the fiscal year.

    This upturn in monthly inflation is primarily attributed to rises in key indices, notably the food index (+1.3 per cent MoM), transport index (+1.5 per cent MoM), and housing index (+2.9 per cent MoM), the report stated.

    The brokerage house attributed the increase in the food index to the impending Ramadan season, foreseeing a month-on-month surge in prices of fresh fruits, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes.

    Meanwhile, the housing index is expected to see an uptick primarily due to increases in gas tariffs and LPG prices.

    Additionally, the transport index is anticipated to remain elevated owing to a month-on-month rise in petroleum product prices, according to AHL.

  • Gold price surges to Rs229,500 per tola

    Gold price surges to Rs229,500 per tola

    The local bullion market saw a modest rise on Wednesday, with 24-karat gold fetching Rs229,500 per tola, marking a Rs100 increase from the previous session.

    Last week, gold prices had surged by Rs700 per tola. According to the Karachi Sarafa Association, the price of 24-karat gold rose to Rs196,760 per 10 grammes, up by Rs86.

    Additionally, 22-karat gold was priced at Rs180,363 per 10 grammes.

    Silver prices, however, remained steady, with 24-karat silver maintaining its price at Rs2,580 per tola and Rs2,211.93 per 10 grammes.

    Internationally, spot gold approached its all-time high, trading at $2,181.6 an ounce, marking a 0.13 per cent increase for the day.

    Investors are closely observing the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index data, which serves as the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation.

    This data could offer insights into when the Federal Reserve might begin reducing interest rates. Lower interest rates typically benefit precious metals like gold, which do not yield interest.

  • Petrol prices expected to see notable increase next week

    Petrol prices expected to see notable increase next week

    Consumers already grappling with the burdens of inflation may soon face another blow as reports indicate an imminent hike in petroleum prices within the country.

    Recent assessments suggest a potential increase in petrol prices by over Rs9 per liter commencing April 1. This surge could propel the new price range for petrol from Rs279.75 to Rs289.25.

    Furthermore, there are indications that the government is contemplating raising the petroleum levy from Rs60 to Rs100.

    The petroleum development levy has undergone various adjustments in recent fiscal years, witnessing a notable escalation during FY-2023.

    Sources reveal that the federal government is deliberating a proposal to either subject petroleum to General Sales Tax (GST) or elevate the existing levy rate to fulfill IMF requisites for reinstating an 18 per cent GST on petrol.

    The proposed budget for the upcoming financial year outlines plans to increase the petroleum levy from Rs60 to Rs100 per liter.

    Presently, a levy of Rs60 per liter is imposed on both petrol and diesel, yielding an estimated annual revenue of Rs950 billion. Since March 2022, GST on petroleum products has been maintained at zero levels.

    In the initial budget drafts, GST was slated to be set at 18 per cent, in alignment with International Monetary Fund stipulations calling for the restoration of the standard GST rate.

    On March 15, the government opted to maintain the price of petrol while reducing the cost of high-speed diesel by Rs1.77 per litre.

    Petrol prices, fuel prices, government policy, petroleum levy, inflation, consumer concerns,

  • SIFC approves construction of largest IT park in federal capital

    SIFC approves construction of largest IT park in federal capital

    The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has approved the establishment of Pakistan’s largest IT park in the G-10 sector of the federal capital, covering an expansive area of 3.3 acres.

    This development follows the decision by the Capital Development Authority Board earlier this month to undertake the construction of the IT park in Islamabad.

    According to APP, negotiations are currently underway with key stakeholders, such as the Pakistan Software Export Board and the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, to ensure the successful execution of the IT Park project.

    Operating under a public-private partnership framework, the project aims to become a hub of technological advancement, offering a wide range of facilities aimed at nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship.

    The IT Park will feature a state-of-the-art research centre, a well-stocked library, software houses, conference rooms, dedicated workspaces for freelancers and startups, and an exhibition area for showcasing cutting-edge IT products.

    Approximately 6,000 freelancers are expected to benefit from access to these top-notch facilities, empowering them to make significant contributions to Pakistan’s economic landscape through the provision of e-services.

    The construction of this IT hub will be financed through collaboration with private IT companies, which will also lease office spaces within the premises.