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Category: Business

  • Gold price drops by Rs1,800 per tola as PKR records modest gains

    Gold price drops by Rs1,800 per tola as PKR records modest gains

    Gold prices in Pakistan experienced a downturn on Wednesday, echoing the global market trend.

    The precious metal, commonly known as the yellow metal, was priced at Rs228,300 per tola, marking a decrease of Rs1,800 over the course of the day.

    Data released by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA) revealed that the price of 10 grammes of gold stood at Rs195,730 after a decrease of Rs1,544.

    This decline follows a Rs100 reduction in gold prices per tola observed on Tuesday within the country. Internationally, gold was valued at $2,179 per ounce on Wednesday, reflecting a $18 decrease with a premium of $20.

    Meanwhile, silver prices remained stable at Rs2,600 per tola during the same period.

    On another front, the Pakistani rupee showed a slight improvement against the US dollar, appreciating by 0.11 per cent in the interbank market on Wednesday.

    At the close, the local currency settled at 278.79, gaining Re0.29 against the greenback, as reported by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

    On Monday, the rupee experienced a marginal decline, settling at 279.08 against the US dollar, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

  • Car sales increase in Pakistan despite high prices, economic challenges

    Car sales increase in Pakistan despite high prices, economic challenges

    In a surprising turn of events, the soaring prices of cars in Pakistan have not deterred buyers, as car sales experienced a notable uptick in February 2024.

    According to data released by the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA), car sales edged up by 1.94 per cent, reaching 7,953 units, compared to 7,802 units recorded in January 2024.

    This positive momentum follows a robust performance in the preceding month, where car sales hit their highest mark since December 2022.

    Analysts attribute this continued growth to the momentum generated by the new year, which has carried over into February.

    Year-on-year comparisons reveal a substantial increase, with car sales spiking by 2.18 times compared to February 2023, when only 3,642 units were sold.

    However, despite this recent surge, cumulative sales for the first eight months of fiscal year 2024 stand at 46,417 units, marking a 40.93 per cent decline from the same period last year.

    Similarly, the production of passenger cars has witnessed a significant downturn, with 8MFY24 recording 48,402 units, reflecting a 40.84 per cent decrease compared to the previous fiscal year.

    In February alone, production plummeted by 16.77 per cent month-on-month, totaling 8,002 units, down from 9,614 units in January 2023.

    Nonetheless, on a year-on-year basis, production saw a remarkable surge of 69.97 per cent, indicating a shift in manufacturing trends.

    Despite these fluctuations, the automotive landscape faces challenges, notably with Pak Suzuki Motor Company announcing two price hikes within a span of ten days in response to increased sales tax.

    The repercussions of these adjustments on sales are anticipated to unfold in the coming weeks, as the market adapts to the new pricing structure.

  • 24-karat gold price dips slightly by Rs100 per tola

    24-karat gold price dips slightly by Rs100 per tola

    In the domestic bullion market, Tuesday saw a relatively stagnant session, with the price of 24-karat gold slipping by Rs100 to Rs230,100 per tola.

    Notably, this marks the first decline in gold prices in Pakistan following ten consecutive sessions of growth.

    Just last week, the price of 24-karat gold surged by almost Rs10,000 per tola, reaching levels unseen since September 2023.

    However, according to the Karachi Sarafa Association, the price of 10-gramme 24-karat gold dropped to Rs197,274 per tola, reflecting a decrease of Rs86.

    Similarly, the price of 10-gramme 22-karat gold experienced a slight dip, settling at Rs180,834.

    Contrastingly, silver prices remained stable today, with 24-karat silver maintaining its rate at Rs 2,600 per tola and Rs2,229.08 per 10-gramme.

    On the global stage, international spot gold traded near $2,177.14 an ounce, marking a 0.26% decrease from the previous session.

    Investors are closely monitoring Tuesday’s U.S. inflation data, anticipating its impact on monetary policy.

  • IMF mission to arrive tomorrow for final review discussions on Pakistan’s SBA

    IMF mission to arrive tomorrow for final review discussions on Pakistan’s SBA

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission is poised to commence vital economic review discussions from March 14 to 18, 2024, marking the conclusive evaluation of Pakistan’s Standby Arrangement (SBA).

    Sources within the Finance Ministry have confirmed that the IMF mission is scheduled to touch down in Pakistan tomorrow night, kickstarting a series of pivotal discussions set to unfold over the next four days.

    During this intensive period, the IMF mission is slated to engage in comprehensive dialogue with Pakistan’s economic team. Key participants include representatives from the Finance Ministry, Energy Ministry, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Planning Commission, and the Petroleum Division.

    Insiders suggest that the IMF mission will delve into discussions covering a spectrum of economic facets. Talks are expected to encompass various critical sectors, including finance, energy, taxation, and central banking.

    Furthermore, in parallel with these discussions, preliminary conversations are anticipated to unfold regarding the potential initiation of a new loan programme with the IMF mission. This prospect adds an extra layer of significance to the ongoing economic deliberations as Pakistan navigates its financial landscape in the pursuit of sustainable economic growth.

    Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage as the IMF mission engages in the final review of Pakistan’s Standby Arrangement, paving the way for crucial decisions that could shape the nation’s economic trajectory in the coming months.

  • Gold price remains unchanged at Rs230,200 per tola

    Gold price remains unchanged at Rs230,200 per tola

    In a day of consistency, gold prices in Pakistan remained unaltered on Monday, mirroring the steady trend observed in the international market.

    According to data provided by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the local market reported no change in the price of gold per tola, maintaining a steady Rs230,200.

    Similarly, the 10-gramme gold price remained constant at Rs197,360.

    The international market echoed this stability, with the global rate of gold holding firm at $2,198 per ounce on Monday. APGJSA noted a premium of $20, maintaining the equilibrium of the precious metal’s value.

    In parallel, silver prices also exhibited stability in the local market, remaining fixed at Rs2,600 per tola.

    This unswerving trend further highlights the current stability in the precious metals market, providing insights for investors and enthusiasts alike.

  • Suzuki Swift GLX CVT now priced above Rs5.4 million

    Suzuki Swift GLX CVT now priced above Rs5.4 million

    Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited (PSMC) announced a substantial increase of Rs304,000 in the price of its Swift G. CVT model, effective from March 8, 2024.

    This adjustment comes in response to the recent surge in taxes imposed by the government on locally manufactured or assembled vehicles, as indicated in the company’s official notice issued today.

    Consequently, the new sale price for the Swift G. CVT model will see an adjustment from Rs5.125 million to Rs5.429 million, reflecting the impact of the revised tax structure.

    The decision stems from a notification released by the Ministry of Finance and Revenue on the same date, highlighting a hike in the sales tax rate from 18 per cent to 25 per cent for vehicles falling under chapter 87.03 of the Pakistan Custom Tariffs, with an invoice price (excluding sales tax) exceeding Rs4 million.

  • Pakistan seeks global assistance to overhaul tax system amidst significant drop in active taxpayers

    Pakistan seeks global assistance to overhaul tax system amidst significant drop in active taxpayers

    In a significant development, the count of active taxpayers has dwindled to 3.4 million, marking a 41 per cent decrease from the previous year. The government is contemplating seeking financial support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to enhance digital services within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

    According to Express Tribune, approximately 500,000 individuals were excluded from the Active Taxpayers List (ATL) for tax year 2023 due to delayed submission of annual income tax returns. These individuals will incur a nominal penalty for reinstatement. Newly appointed economic czar, Muhammad Aurangzeb, chaired his inaugural meeting to explore avenues for improving digital services and expanding the tax base.

    The gathering, which included representatives from Karandaaz Pakistan, a firm specializing in financial inclusion services, concluded with the decision for Karandaaz to approach the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for financial backing in establishing a digital platform within the FBR.

    The government aims to streamline interactions between tax authorities and taxpayers, fostering transparency and curbing corruption. This initiative arises as the number of active taxpayers further drops to a mere 3.4 million, compared to last year’s figure of over 5.7 million—an alarming 41 per cent reduction.

    The FBR, having received 3.9 million income tax returns, removed approximately 500,000 individuals from the active list due to delayed filings. Consequently, those not on the active taxpayers list will face a 0.6 per cent withholding tax on cash withdrawals.

    To encourage compliance, the government allows the reactivation of approximately 500,000 individuals by paying a nominal Rs1,000 fine for late filing of returns. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is expected to exert pressure on the government to expand the tax base and simplify tax slabs for both salaried and business individuals.

    Recent data reveals a noteworthy contribution of Rs217 billion from the salaried class in the first eight months of the current fiscal year, surpassing the combined taxes paid by rich exporters and real estate players by Rs37 billion, or one-fifth.

  • Gold price closes week above Rs230,000 per tola

    Gold price closes week above Rs230,000 per tola

    In a notable development, gold prices in Pakistan witnessed a substantial increase, with the per-tola price surging by Rs1,600 in the local market.

    The gold rate climbed to a new height, reaching Rs230,200 in the domestic market, reflecting the ongoing economic dynamics.

    Specifically, the price of 10 grammes of 22-karat gold has also experienced an upward trend, trading at Rs180,913.

    This surge in gold prices is likely to impact various sectors of the economy, prompting investors and market observers to closely monitor the situation.

    Simultaneously, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has marked a week of positive trends and significant growth in business activities following the recently held general elections.

    As the business week concluded, the KSE-100 index stood at 65,793 points, indicating a gain of 468 points, or 0.70 per cent. 

    Throughout the week, the KSE-100 index reached its peak at an impressive 66,150 points, underscoring the confidence of investors in the market.

    However, it is noteworthy that the index experienced fluctuations, with the lowest point recorded at 65,187.

  • SNGPL to provide uninterrupted gas supply during Sahr and Iftar in Ramadan

    SNGPL to provide uninterrupted gas supply during Sahr and Iftar in Ramadan

    Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has affirmed its commitment to providing uninterrupted gas supply during the holy month of Ramadan, specifically catering to the Sahr and Iftar periods. The decision comes as a proactive measure to facilitate consumers adhering to their religious practices.

    According to a spokesperson from Sui Northern, the gas supply will remain constant from 2:30 am to 8 am for Sahr (pre-dawn meal) and from 3 pm to 10 pm for Iftar (breaking of the fast). This move is aimed at ensuring a seamless gas service for consumers at crucial times during Ramadan.

    In addressing potential gas pressure issues, Sui Northern Gas has formed monitoring teams and established control rooms. These initiatives are designed to swiftly resolve any challenges that may arise, emphasising the company’s dedication to a reliable gas supply throughout the holy month.

    Consumers experiencing gas pressure or supply problems are encouraged to contact the dedicated helpline at 1199.

  • Bitcoin surges to new heights, breaking $70,000 barrier

    Bitcoin surges to new heights, breaking $70,000 barrier

    In a surge of volatile trading, Bitcoin soared to an all-time high of $70,000 on Friday, fueled by the ongoing frenzy in the crypto investment landscape.

    This marks a significant milestone for the leading cryptocurrency, driven by increased investor demand for new U.S. spot exchange-traded crypto products and optimistic expectations of a global decline in interest rates.

    The cryptocurrency reached an impressive $70,105 before experiencing a swift drop, currently settling at $68,317.72. The recent influx of billions of dollars into exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has provided substantial support.

    Furthermore, a positive market outlook is influenced by the upcoming upgrade to the Ethereum blockchain platform, which houses the second-largest cryptocurrency, Ether.

    Additionally, anticipation surrounds the bitcoin “halving” event scheduled for April, which is expected to slow down the rate of bitcoin minting.

    However, scepticism persists regarding the speculative nature of these digital assets. Despite reaching a record high earlier in the week, Bitcoin encountered a sharp reversal, plummeting more than 10 per cent and slipping below the $60,000 threshold.

    Antoni Trenchev, co-founder of the crypto lending platform Nexo, acknowledged the challenges of navigating historic highs, stating, “Volatility defines bitcoin bull markets, and 2024 will be littered with sudden and gut-wrenching 10 per cent–20 per cent plunges.”

    The approval of 11 spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in late January marked a pivotal moment for the crypto industry.

    This comes after an 18-month-long crypto winter plagued by corporate bankruptcies and scandals.

    In a noteworthy shift, institutional investors, who were once cautious due to the unpredictable nature of crypto, are now committing long-term investments.

    Analysts believe that this institutional support could play a vital role in sustaining the current upward momentum.

    According to LSEG data, net flows into the ten largest U.S. spot bitcoin funds reached $2.2 billion in the week ending March 1, with over $2 billion of that directed towards BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT.O).