Category: Business

  • Gold prices go up as international rate hits $4,092 per ounce

    Gold prices go up as international rate hits $4,092 per ounce

    Gold prices have risen by $79 per ounce to $4,092 in the international bullion market.

    According to reports, the global hike has also resulted in one for the local market where gold per tola rose by Rs7,900, reaching Rs431,562.

    Additionally, the price per 10 grams of gold increased by Rs6,773 to Rs369,994.

    On Tuesday, gold prices fell even as the international market saw a rebound from a one-week low, supported by softer US employment data and expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut in December.

    According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price of gold per tola dropped by Rs7,000 to settle at Rs423,662. Similarly, the rate for 10-gram gold decreased by Rs6,002, closing at Rs363,221.

    The decline comes a day after domestic bullion rates remained stable, with the per-tola price standing at Rs430,662.

    In the international market, gold recovered after touching a one-week low, trading between $3,997 and $4,080. Adnan Agar, Director at Interactive Commodities, said global prices showed a mild correction following two days of upward movement.

  • ECC approves grants for security, defence projects

    ECC approves grants for security, defence projects

    The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved grants for Pakistan’s security and defence projects.

    In a post on social media platform X, the finance ministry said Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired a meeting of the ECC that was attended by federal ministers, special assistants to the prime minister, secretaries and senior officials from relevant divisions.

    It said the ECC approved “several strategic grants and reforms aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s security framework, defence capabilities, food security, and petroleum sector operations”.

    According to the ministry’s statement, a technical supplementary grant of Rs100.3 million was approved for the maintenance of defence equipment used by the federal civil armed forces.

    A technical supplementary grant of Rs841.56m was also approved for enhanced border management, internal security and law and order. Further, a technical supplementary grant of Rs50 billion was also approved for defence services projects.

    The ECC also decided to establish a new special purpose vehicle, with initial paid-up capital of Rs1,000,000, to take forward the winding up of Pakistan Agriculture Storage and Services Corporation, along with “measures to incentivise foreign participation in offshore oil and gas exploration, including licence extensions and working interest assignments”.

    Pakistan also approved a new offshore exploration consortium, clearing Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company (TPOC) to take over operatorship of the Eastern Offshore Block-C as part of a push to revive drilling, Adviser to the minister Khurram Schehzad said.

    The ECC also approved Pakistan Petroleum Limited’s request to assign part of its interest in the block to TPOC, Mari Energies and state-run Oil and Gas Development Co Ltd, leaving PPL with a 35 per cent stake.

  • Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan: What Makes Herbiotics So Popular

    Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan: What Makes Herbiotics So Popular

    Magnesium Glycinate has become quite popular among health enthusiasts in the last few years since it helps with relaxation, improved sleep, muscle recovery, and overall health. As more people learn about how important it is to get enough nutrients, the demand for Magnesium Glycinate Pakistan has grown a lot. Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate is one of the most trusted and popular supplement brands because of its high-quality formulation, quality assurance, and proven effectiveness.

    Understanding Magnesium Glycinate

    Magnesium Glycinate is a chelated form of magnesium, which means it is linked to the amino acid glycine. This type is well-known for being easy on the stomach and having a lot of bioavailability, which makes it one of the top Magnesium Glycinate Supplements on the market. Magnesium Glycinate is easy to absorb and less likely to make you have to go to the bathroom than other kinds of magnesium.

     

    Magnesium Glycinate is becoming more and more popular in Pakistan among people who want to sleep better, lower stress, soothe muscle cramps, and improve their overall health. Many nutritionists think that this is one of the best Magnesium Glycinate Supplements for people who don’t get enough magnesium or who have difficulties absorbing minerals.

    Why Magnesium Glycinate Is Important for the Body

    Magnesium is an important mineral that takes part in more than 300 chemical processes in the body. It supports cardiac function, nerve transmission, muscle relaxation, and bone strength.  Sadly, many modern diets don’t include enough foods that are high in magnesium, which is why so many people are deficient. That’s where Magnesium Glycinate Supplements come in.

     

    Magnesium Glycinate is good for:

     

    • Get better sleep and less insomnia.

    • Reduce tension and worry.

    • Help your muscles and joints heal.

    • Improve the health of your bones and heart.

    • Cut down on the number of migraines.

    • Keep your blood sugar levels stable.

     

    For a lot of people in Pakistan, taking Magnesium Glycinate supplements is a simple and effective approach to get the magnesium they need every day without having to change their diet. The rise in demand for Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan shows that people are paying more attention to natural wellness and preventive health.

    Rising Popularity of Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan

    More people in Pakistan have been looking for trustworthy Magnesium Glycinate Supplements in the last few years because they are becoming more aware of the signs of magnesium insufficiency, which include tiredness, weak muscles, mood swings, and an irregular heartbeat. Many Pakistanis are turning to Magnesium Glycinate Supplements to improve their health over the long run because they are busy and eat poorly.

     

    People who desire a supplement that works gently yet well have turned to Magnesium Glycinate. It’s good for students who are stressed, athletes who require muscle support, and individuals who want to sleep better. Magnesium Glycinate is one of the most important health products in Pakistan because of the trend toward better living and the popularity of dietary supplements.

    Herbiotics: A Trusted Brand for Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan

    Herbiotics is a brand that people in Pakistan always admire when they talk about Magnesium Glycinate. Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate is a well-known supplement in Pakistan since it is known for being pure, effective, and cheap.

     

    Here are some things that make Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate Supplement special:

    1. High Absorption Rate 

    Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate has the highest absorption rate, so your body gets all the advantages of magnesium without any stomach problems.

    2. High-Quality Substances

    It is made with pure, professionally tested substances that fulfill international safety and potency requirements.

    3. No Added Chemicals

    The supplement doesn’t have any hazardous chemicals, artificial preservatives, or allergies in it, so it’s safe to use every day.

    4. Helps You Sleep Better and Relax

    People who use Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate Supplement regularly say that their sleep patterns have gotten better and their stress levels have gone down.

    5. Affordable and Easy to Find 

    Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan is a great value for money, unlike expensive international brands that don’t skimp on quality.

     

    Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate is the best Magnesium Glycinate Supplement because it is reliable, cheap, and works.

    How to Use Magnesium Glycinate Supplements Effectively

    To get the most out of Magnesium Glycinate Supplements, you should take them as advised, which is usually once or twice a day after meals. Before you start taking any supplements, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or already have a health problem.

     

    Taking Magnesium Glycinate on a regular basis can slowly make you feel better overall, making you feel more relaxed, active, and balanced. Consistency is important. The longer you use Magnesium Glycinate Supplements, the greater the outcomes will be.

    Why Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate Is the Smart Choice

    Before you buy a Magnesium Glycinate Supplement, you should think about things like the quality of the ingredients, the trustworthiness of the business, and how happy other people are with the product. Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate meets all of these requirements.

     

    Herbiotics is one of the few supplement brands in Pakistan that meets the norms of a pharmacy. GMP certification ensures that every batch of Magnesium Glycinate is checked for purity and effectiveness. Thousands of people have seen clear changes in their sleep, energy, and muscle health after adding Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate to their daily routine.

     

    So, if you’re looking for a reliable Magnesium Glycinate Supplement in Pakistan, Herbiotics is the greatest choice for getting the best health organically.

    FAQs About Magnesium Glycinate Pakistan

    1. What is Magnesium Glycinate used for?

    Magnesium Glycinate is utilized to help with stress, sleep, muscle and nerve function, and keeping bones strong. It is one of the easiest and most benign forms of magnesium to take.

    2. Can you get Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan?

    Yes, you can find Magnesium Glycinate in Pakistan from well-known companies like Herbiotics, both online and at some pharmacies.

    3. How long does it take for Magnesium Glycinate to work?

    Most people who take a Magnesium Glycinate Supplement on a regular basis notice that their sleep, energy, and relaxation are better within one to two weeks. But the results may be different depending on your health and nutrition.

    Conclusion

    Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate is still the most trusted Magnesium Glycinate Supplement in Pakistan, even if there are many other supplements on the market. It is a top choice for people who want to raise their magnesium levels naturally because it absorbs well, is made with clean ingredients, and is cheap. Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate Pakistan is the best way to increase your health and energy, whether you want to sleep better, lower your stress, or help your muscles recover.

    Summary

    Magnesium Glycinate is an important mineral supplement that helps with muscle function, relaxation, and energy production. More and more people in Pakistan are becoming aware of magnesium insufficiency, which is driving up the need for Magnesium Glycinate. Herbiotics Magnesium Glycinate Supplement distinguishes out from the rest since it is of the highest quality, absorbs better, and has been shown to work. Herbiotics is the name to trust when it comes to Magnesium Glycinate Supplements that work. They will help you live a healthy life without using drugs.

    Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author. This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to health practices.

     
     
  • Current account deficit rises to $733 million

    Current account deficit rises to $733 million

    Pakistan’s current account deficit – when a country’s imports of goods, services, and capital are greater than its exports, leading to a negative balance of payments – has widened to $733 million during the first four months of the current fiscal year 2025-26.

    According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and compiled by Arif Habib Limited, it marks a significant increase as compared to a deficit of $206 million recorded in the same period last year.

    In October 2025 alone, the country posted a current account deficit of $112 million, reversing the trend from a surplus of $296 million in October 2024 and a surplus of $83 million in September 2025.

    The data shows that exports of goods in October 2025 stood at $2.75 billion – down 9% as compared to last year, while imports of goods rose 13% to $5.27 billion.

    The balance on trade in goods recorded a deficit of $2.53 billion for the month whereas exports of services increased by 18% to $826 million.

    Imports of services rose 13% to $1.05 billion, data showed.

    Workers’ remittances reached $3.42 billion in October 2025, up 12% year-on-year, while the balance on secondary income also improved by 14% to $3.55 billion.

  • Gold prices continue to fall in local, international markets

    Gold prices continue to fall in local, international markets

    Gold prices are continuing to decline in international and domestic markets with a $91 per ounce drop to $4,083.

    According to reports the same fell by Rs9,100 to Rs430,662 in the local market while 10 grams of gold decreased by Rs7,799 to Rs369,223. Spot gold fell by 1.9% at $4,092.72 per ounce after earlier sliding more than 3%.

    In other metals, spot silver edged down 2.8% to $50.84 per ounce but is still up 5.2% for the week.

    Reports quoted Director of Interactive Commodities Adnan Agar as noting that gold’s daily high reached $4,148, with a low of $4,097. “After touching the high, prices dipped about $40, when the US session opened. There is strong support at $4,155; if breached, gold could rise to $4,200-4,220. However, if resistance holds, it may retract to $4,080-4,050.”

    The vice president and senior metals strategist at Zaner Metals, Peter Grant said, “We just got into good resistance around the halfway back point and that probably prompted some profit-taking on longs after Monday’s strong gains and perhaps a little bit of speculative selling up there as well.”

  • Petrol price likely to drop; spike in diesel prices expected

    Petrol price likely to drop; spike in diesel prices expected

    The federal government is expected to reduce the price of petrol for next fortnight while the same for diesel, kerosene and light diesel could go up.

    According to reports, the price of petrol could fall by up to Rs2 per litre while the price of high-speed diesel could increase by Rs9.60 per litre.

    The substantial jump in diesel prices, if approved, would be driven by recent market trends, reports said, adding that the new price of high-speed diesel would as a result settle around Rs288.40 per litre.

    The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) will forward its pricing summary to the government on November 15, based on international market trends and industry data.

    Earlier, petroleum prices were raised on Nov 1 after two weeks of reduction in late October.

    The spike came amid volatility in the international oil market and the impact of recent United States (US) sanctions on Russia’s top oil producers.

  • PM to meet Amazon, Alibaba, Walmart among other top global CEOs in Pakistan

    PM to meet Amazon, Alibaba, Walmart among other top global CEOs in Pakistan

    A list of chief executive officers (CEOs) of global retail giants has been finalised to arrange their meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Pakistan.

    According to reports, said companies include Amazon, Alibaba and Walmart among others, representing several countries, including the United States (US), China, the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, Netherlands and France.

    Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Haroon Akhtar Khan and Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani attended the high-level meeting that finalised the list.

    The meeting also discussed preparations for the upcoming interaction between the premier and the CEOs of the top 20 companies. The federal ministers reviewed arrangements and the invitation process for the CEOs to meet PM Shehbaz. Participants also deliberated on strategic measures to promote investment in Pakistan and highlight the country’s economic and geopolitical significance on the global stage.

    SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasised that Pakistan holds immense strategic importance and offers vast investment opportunities across multiple sectors. He added that the premier’s upcoming meeting with the top CEOs would be a “game-changer for Pakistan’s economy”.

    Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan said that trade policies were being aligned with modern global trends to ensure sustainable economic growth while Food Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted the need to adopt modern technology to enhance agricultural productivity.

    Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani noted that stability in the investment sector would lead to increased employment opportunities and sustainable economic development. He further said that the government’s outreach to ambassadors and global stakeholders was part of a broader effort to project Pakistan’s positive image internationally.

    It merits a mention that the plan comes a month after PM Shehbaz expressed commitment to transform Pakistan into an attractive destination for investment in the region through transparency and by crafting economic policies aligned with global standards.    

    Presiding over a meeting regarding the country’s economy in Islamabad in October, the premier directed relevant ministries and institutions to ensure the provision of all necessary facilities to foreign investors. He further said that the recent positive economic trends reflect the confidence of foreign investors in country’s economy.

    He termed stabilising country’s economy on strong foundations as the top priority of the government, and directed the officials to ensure the participation of the private sector.

    PM Shehbaz pledged that the government would utilise all investment opportunities to promote public welfare and increase employment opportunities, saying that ongoing economic and financial reforms had set the economy on a new course, and the country was steadily moving toward sustainable progress due to innovation and transparency.

  • Second US crude oil shipment reaches Pakistan

    Second US crude oil shipment reaches Pakistan

    As part of strategic recalibration of Pakistan’s energy landscape, the country has received its second shipment of United States (US) crude oil, signalling a pivotal shift in the quest for energy security and economic efficiency, The News reported.

    According to reports, MT Albany tanker, laden with one million barrels of premium West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude, successfully berthed at Cnergyico’s offshore Single Point Mooring (SPM) terminal near Hub in Balochistan on Nov 10.

    While the delivery is not an isolated and is part of a carefully structured energy corridor between the two countries, it follows the landmark shipment in October.

    A third cargo is scheduled for January 2026, all of which represent a strategic investment of over $200 million, moving Pakistan beyond its traditional reliance on Middle Eastern suppliers like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    The feasibility of this transcontinental energy trade hinges on a critical piece of infrastructure: Cnergyico’s deep-water SPM terminal. Unlike the shallow ports of Karachi, which are limited to smaller vessels, this terminal can accommodate massive Aframax and Suezmax tankers.

    This capability is a game-changer for vessel economics, as importing larger cargoes significantly reduces the per-barrel freight cost, making long-haul shipments financially viable.

    The economic calculus is further strengthened by the specific qualities of WTI crude. As a light, sweet crude, it is not only easier and cheaper to refine into high-value products like gasoline and diesel but also produces lower emissions. Crucially, WTI frequently trades at a discount to the Dubai/Oman benchmark, which is used to price Middle Eastern crude.

    This price differential often offsets the higher transportation costs from the US Gulf Coast, making the landed cost of American oil highly competitive. Cnergyico’s strategy to process exclusively low-sulfur crudes like WTI and Nigeria’s Bonny Light through this period underscores a dual focus on economic optimisation and environmental performance.

    It merits a mention that Pakistan and the US signed a trade and energy partnership agreement in July 2025, which included cooperation on developing Pakistan’s oil reserves and reducing tariffs for certain Pakistani exports.

    While Pakistan started importing US-origin crude oil under the same deal, the agreement was hailed by both sides as a strategic re-engagement. Critics, however, raise concerns over the feasibility of discovering massive oil reserves and potential geopolitical implications.

  • Hakeem wins ‘Sustainable & Inclusive Payments Excellence’ Award at APAC Payments Excellence Awards 2025

    Hakeem wins ‘Sustainable & Inclusive Payments Excellence’ Award at APAC Payments Excellence Awards 2025


    Walee Financial Services is proud to announce that its flagship Islamic digital nano-financing platform, Hakeem, has been awarded the Sustainable & Inclusive Payments Excellence Award at the APAC Payments Excellence Awards 2025, hosted by the Emerging Payments Association Asia (EPAA) in Hong Kong.

    The EPAA Awards are among the most prestigious recognitions in the Asia-Pacific payments industry, celebrating organizations that are driving inclusion, innovation, and sustainability in the digital finance ecosystem.

    Recognized Among Global Leaders

    In the Sustainable & Inclusive Payments Innovation category, Hakeem was recognized alongside global institutions including Mastercard, RCBC, and PayNet, marking a proud moment for Pakistan’s fintech sector. Other categories featured world-leading names such as Standard Chartered, HSBC, Thunes, and Commonwealth Bank, underscoring the Awards’ stature as a benchmark for global excellence.

    This milestone follows Hakeem’s international recognition as Emerging FinTech of the Year at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2024, presented by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, further solidifying its reputation as a pioneer in ethical digital finance.

    Championing Faith-Aligned Inclusion

    At its core, Hakeem was built to make finance fair, faith-driven, and accessible for all. It stands as Pakistan’s first fully Shariah-certified Islamic digital nano-finance platform, designed to meet the financial needs of underserved communities who often remain excluded from conventional banking systems.

    Using a 100% digital model, Hakeem enables users to complete e-KYC, undergo AI-driven credit scoring, and access ethical nano-financing in minutes, no paperwork, no physical branches, and no collateral required. This model ensures accessibility across Pakistan’s rural and urban segments alike, especially for women and low-income earners.

    “Financial inclusion is not just about access to funds, it’s about restoring dignity and creating opportunity where it was denied,” said Khushba Hayat, Partner, Business Development at Walee Financial Services. “At Hakeem, every transaction tells a human story, of a woman restarting her business, a labourer bridging a tough month, or a teacher paying her parent’s medical bills. This award validates our belief that ethical finance can be both inclusive and scalable.”

    A Vision Rooted in Empathy

    Reflecting on this recognition, Noshad Minhas, CEO of Walee Financial Services, shared:

    “I have spent over two decades working in banks and financial institutions. And what I saw was that finance was built for a select few, the same people in the same circles. The vast majority were neglected, left out, or made to feel that banking wasn’t for them.

    At Hakeem, we wanted to change that. To build a solution that is truly equal, where everyone has access, not just the privileged. By using advanced technology, we are making finance simple, safe, and accessible, a system where no one feels intimidated by big banks or formal suits, but instead feels served, respected, and empowered, all from the comfort of their home. This is why Hakeem exists: to make ethical finance a reality for every community.”

    Looking Ahead

    With full Shariah certification achieved, Hakeem is now preparing to expand its suite of ethical financial solutions, including MSME financing, remittance-linked financing, women-focused financial products, and Takaful (Islamic insurance) distribution. These upcoming innovations are designed to empower individuals, strengthen small enterprises, and enable long-term, faith-aligned financial inclusion across Pakistan.

    About Walee Financial Services

    Walee Financial Services is dedicated to designing financial products that drive inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment. Hakeem, its Islamic nano-financing product, stands at the heart of this mission, offering rapid, ethical financial solutions to those often left out of traditional banking systems.

    About the APAC Payments Excellence Awards

    Hosted by the Emerging Payments Association Asia (EPAA), the APAC Payments Excellence Awards recognize organizations that are revolutionizing the payments landscape. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and inclusion, the awards honor achievements that are shaping the future of payments across the region.

  • FFC Receives Best Corporate & Sustainability Report Awards

    FFC Receives Best Corporate & Sustainability Report Awards

    Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) continues its legacy of excellence, securing top honors for its Annual and Sustainability Reports 2024 at the awards ceremony in Lahore.

    Overall Top Rankings:

    · 1st Position – Chemical & Fertilizer Sector – 21st time
    · 1st Position – Sustainability Report  – 9th time

    In the Overall Best Corporate Report category for year 2024, FFC secured second place. The awards were presented by the joint committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) and the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMAP), recognizing FFC’s commitment to transparent reporting and exemplary governance practices.

    These achievements underscore the invaluable guidance of our Board of Directors and the tireless dedication of FFC management team, under the leadership of MD&CEO, Mr. Jahangir Piracha.

    With humility, we offer gratitude to the Almighty and pray for continued success, striving to raise the FFC banner even higher in the years ahead. Ameen.