Standard Chartered’s market outlook event offers key insights on local, global economic trends
Standard Chartered Pakistan held the Market Outlook 2026 at the Marriott Hotel, Karachi. This was the first session in a series of market outlook events that the Bank hosts for its clients throughout the year. The event brought together the Bank’s Affluent clients and experts from its product partners to discuss the prevailing global and local economic landscape and share insights on the future of financial markets.
Saadya Riaz, Head, Wealth & Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Pakistan, stated, “As global dynamics evolve, and Pakistan’s economic fundamentals strengthen, informed asset allocation and disciplined strategy become even more critical. Through the Market Outlook 2026 event, we aim to bring the strength of our global network and local expertise to help clients navigate uncertainty and capture opportunity with confidence.”
Addressing clients, Manpreet Gill, Chief Investment Officer, AMEE, Standard Chartered, via video message, highlighted that demand for gold has remained strong, driven by persistent geopolitical tensions and the continued weakening of the US dollar. He noted that the US interest rates are trending lower while largely remaining flat across other major markets, and the resulting pressure on the US dollar could create a supportive environment for emerging market assets and currencies.
The panel comprised Muhammad Asim, CFA, CIO, MCB Funds, Asif Ali Qureshi, CEO UBL Funds, and Iffat Zehra Mankani, CEO JS Investments. The session was moderated by Murtaza Hasan, Head of Investment Advisory, Standard Chartered Pakistan, and shed light on the macroeconomic outlook against the backdrop of global developments, wealth planning through efficient and diversified solutions, and the need for protection solutions in client portfolios.
Standard Chartered looks forward to organising similar events for its clients.
Pakistan Climate Conference Recognizes Dawlance for Sustainable Business Practices at OICCI Event
Dawlance, Pakistan’s leading home appliance manufacturer and a subsidiary of the global Beko Group, has been honored with the Climate Action Award at the 4th Pakistan Climate Conference 2026, organized by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI). The recognition underscores Dawlance’s comprehensive approach to climate action and its commitment to sustainable business practices.
This year’s conference centered on the theme “The Climate Acceleration: From Commitment to Competitive Edge in the Decisive Decade,” highlighting the urgent need for businesses to transform climate commitments into competitive advantages. For Pakistan, which loses nearly 1 percent of GDP annually to climate-related damages, the stakes have never been higher. Climate change has evolved from an environmental concern into a critical economic and competitiveness issue that demands immediate industry leadership.
The Climate Action Award recognizes Dawlance’s holistic approach to sustainability across energy efficiency, responsible manufacturing, and sustainable product design. Beyond its own operations, the award acknowledges Dawlance’s collaborative work with suppliers, communities, and industry partners to drive systemic change, supported by transparent, global-standard reporting and proactive climate advocacy.
“At Dawlance, climate action is not merely a corporate responsibility; it is a strategic imperative directly linked to long-term value creation for Pakistan,” said Umar Ahsan Khan, CEO of Dawlance. “We are proud to be recognized for our efforts, but this award represents a milestone, not a destination. As we advance toward our Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)-approved emissions reduction targets for 2030 and our net zero commitment by 2050, we remain focused on demonstrating that the companies and countries that adapt fastest will attract capital, create jobs, and maintain relevance in global value chains. Industry must lead, not wait.”
Dawlance’s climate strategy is underpinned by strong governance and executive oversight, ensuring that climate considerations guide long-term strategic decisions. The company is on track to achieve its SBTi-approved Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions reduction targets by 2030, positioning itself as a leader in Pakistan’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
In line with its brand purpose—”Progress Today, Preserve Tomorrow”—Dawlance continues to embed sustainability across its value chain, demonstrating that environmental stewardship and business growth are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing.
Thar Foundation honoured for leading CSR initiatives in Thar block II
Thar Foundation, the CSR arm of Thar Block II entities, has been recognised for its impactful contributions to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its ongoing efforts in sustainable development and community transformation that continue to enhance the lives of the Thari people.
Recently, Thar Foundation was honoured at the 18th Annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Summit 2026, organised by the National Forum for Environment and Health, receiving recognition in three CSR award categories – ESG & Sustainability Leadership, Public Health & Safety Programmes and Biodiversity & Conservation.
Farhan Ansari, General Manager Thar Foundation, shared his thoughts on the recognition, “We have been driven by the purpose of enhancing Thari communities through long-term, impactful initiatives in quality education, healthcare access, livelihoods, environmental stewardship and more. For over a decade, it has been truly inspiring to witness the positive transformation taking place in the region. We remain committed to serving the people of Thar and continuing our journey of Thar Badal Raha Hai Pakistan.” Thar Foundation honoured for leading CSR initiatives in Thar Block II
In addition to the CSR accolades, Thar Foundation was also honoured in the category of Women Empowerment at FEMPACT 2026 – 1st International Conference on Women Empowerment and Financial Inclusion. Through its various initiatives, the Foundation has supported women in taking on non-traditional and economically empowering roles, training nearly 700 Thari women as dump truck drivers, RO plant operators, teachers, and lady health workers who continue to uplift their communities.
Through its education and vocational training programmes, Thar Foundation continues to empower local talent to contribute to the region’s socio-economic progress. The Foundation has established and is operating 33 school units that are imparting quality education to over 5,000 students, with 45% female enrolment. Additionally, more than 2,000 individuals have received vocational training in areas such as solarisation, PV technology, welding, and hospitality, further strengthening community livelihoods.
To promote quality healthcare, Thar Foundation has set up five advanced medical facilities and three mobile health units, delivering essential services free of cost to over 450,000 patients since inception. It has also installed 33 Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants across Thar Block II and surrounding areas, supplying approximately 3 million gallons of clean drinking water to the community each month.
To ensure reliable power supply to villages and settlements across Thar Block II and nearby areas, the Foundation launched the Village Electrification Project (VEP), enabling the first-ever installation of solar systems in the region. Under this initiative, 100% solarisation of 15 villages and settlements, covering 3,750 households, has been achieved, along with the installation of around 500 pit latrines across the region. Moreover, the Foundation has planted over 1.2 million trees under the Thar Million Tree Program in Block II and established Pakistan’s first flora station last year.
Al-Ghazi tractors joins green agrimall to boost farm mechanization
Al-Ghazi Tractors Limited, one of Pakistan’s leading tractor manufacturers, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Green Agrimall at Al-Ghazi’s Lahore office to strengthen farmer access to mechanization solutions across Pakistan. The MoU was signed by Yasin Seker, CEO of Al-Ghazi Tractors Limited, and Ali Sufian Hamayon, CEO of Green Agrimall, formalizing a collaboration that aims to enhance distribution channels, improve service accessibility, and support productivity within the country’s agricultural value chain.
The collaboration aims to improve access to modern agricultural mechanization for Green Agrimall’s registered farmers. Under this partnership, AGTL tractors, genuine spare parts, and lubricants will be made available through designated Green Agrimall platforms. The partnership also envisions joint farmer engagement initiatives, including demonstrations, training, and awareness programs to promote the effective use of modern farming equipment. The collaboration also enables the use of available training facilities for farmer-focused learning and capacity-building initiatives.
Yasin Seker, CEO of Al-Ghazi Tractors Limited, said, “At Al-Ghazi Tractors, our commitment extends beyond machinery. We are focused on strengthening Pakistan’s broader agricultural value chain by improving access to reliable, high-performance mechanization solutions. Through our collaboration with Green Agrimall, we are enhancing connectivity with organized farmer platforms, supporting productivity, and contributing to sustainable growth across the agri sector.”
Ali Sufian Hamayon, CEO of Green Agrimall, added, “This strategic collaboration with Al-Ghazi Tractors Ltd. guarantees our registered farmers priority access to Al-Ghazi tractors, genuine parts, and lubricants, supported by dedicated aftersales service. It underscores Green Agrimall’s shared commitment to advancing mechanization and enhancing service delivery across Pakistan’s agricultural ecosystem for Green Agrimall’s registered farmers, where aligning manufacturing capabilities with structured farmer platforms drives both scale and reliability.”
This partnership reflects a shared vision to accelerate mechanization adoption, strengthen service accessibility, and contribute to sustainable agricultural growth across Pakistan.
Mian Zahid hails reduction in Sindh infrastructure CESS as a game-changer for industry
Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum & All Karachi Industrial Alliance, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan, Chairman Policy Advisory Board FPCCI, and Former Provincial Minister Information Technology, has lauded the Sindh Government’s landmark decision to slash the Infrastructure Development Cess (IDC) and its aggressive push toward a technologically advanced security grid.
Speaking at a high-profile dinner yesterday, February 17, 2026, hosted by Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), for Mr. Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Sindh Minister for Home, Mian Zahid Hussain stressed that these actions are vital for re-establishing investor confidence in the province.
Senior leadership was present at the event, including Additional Chief Secretary Home Mr. Iqbal Memon, Additional IGP Karachi Mr. Azad Khan, Additional IGP Mr. Sharjeel Kharal, along with a significant number of business community members.
Mian Zahid Hussain highlighted the instrumental role played by Mr. Lanjar—who also holds the portfolio of Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs—in navigating the legislative hurdles to reduce the Sindh Infrastructure Cess, from 1.85% to 0.85% (and down to 0.80% for non-litigants) is a historic relief for the industrial sector. Mian Zahid Hussain praised the outstanding leadership and dedication of Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, and Abdul Mohiman Khan, Regional Chairman of FPCCI, in their negotiations with the Sindh government to achieve this settlement.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that with Rs. 350 billion currently locked in protracted litigation, the new settlement formula—paying 15% by July 2026 and the remainder over 12 years—provides a much-needed “breathing space” for cash-strapped businesses. The total abolition of the cess on the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) is expected to save the business community millions of dollars annually, making Sindh’s exports significantly more competitive on the global stage, he said.
Addressing the security landscape, Mian Zahid Hussain expressed the business community’s support for the Karachi Safe City Project (Phase I). “Security is the currency of trade,” Mian Zahid Hussain remarked. “Without a safe environment, the economy cannot flourish.”
The Minister briefed the leadership on the deployment of 1,300 high-definition cameras across 300 strategic sites, scheduled for completion within 60 days. Mian Zahid Hussain noted that this technological leap, combined with facial recognition and the Traffic Regulation and Citation System (TRACS), will finally provide the Sindh Police with the modern tools required to suppress street crime, which has historically seen over 90,000 reported incidents in peak cycles.
Mian Zahid Hussain further commended the ongoing operations in the Katcha areas, noting that the safety of the province’s trade corridors is vital for the seamless movement of goods between Karachi’s ports and the rest of the country. By lowering the infrastructure levy below that of other provinces, Sindh is effectively positioning itself as the most attractive destination for industrial relocation.
Mian Zahid Hussain urged the Sindh Government to ensure that the revenue generated from the revised cess is strictly utilized for the rehabilitation of crumbling infrastructure in industrial zones. He proposed the formation of a joint monitoring committee between the Home Department and the business community to oversee the rollout of the Safe City Project.
Students turn trash into art in Beaconhouse Jubilee’s sustainable exhibition
Beaconhouse Jubilee Campus Middle Section recently organized a vibrant and thought-provoking exhibition titled ‘From Waste to Art’, centered around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
The exhibition served as a powerful platform for students to showcase their creativity while emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable living. Through innovative artistic expression, students transformed discarded and recyclable materials into stunning works of art, reinforcing the message of responsible consumption and waste reduction.
A wide variety of artwork was displayed, crafted from recycled resources such as paper, plastic and glass bottles, leftover cartons, boxes, used crates, and discarded wood. The students demonstrated imaginative techniques of reuse and recycling, highlighting their commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices.
The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guest artists, including Aliya Yousuf, Assistant Professor at IVS, known for her multi-disciplinary exploration of harmony with nature; Zabad Anwer, a Karachi-based visual artist blending art, design, and storytelling; and Aliya Faizi, recognized for her unique fusion of abstraction, figuration, and calligraphy reflecting human existence and spirituality.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Tabinda Raza , School Principal, stated:
“I’m thrilled to see our students embracing sustainability and creativity. This exhibition is a testament to their talent and dedication to environmental stewardship.”
Ms. Humaira Shahab, Headmistress, added: ‘From Waste to Art’ serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for environmental protection, encouraging participants to reassess their daily habits and make conscious choices towards reduced consumption, reuse, and recycling. This initiative aligns with our mission to foster sustainability and environmental awareness among students, empowering them to become responsible citizens.”
The exhibition was also attended by Mr. Ahsan Afzal, Regional Director South, and Ms. Tasneem Karbalai, Manager Education Operations, from the Beaconhouse Regional Office.
Beaconhouse Jubilee Campus expressed gratitude to parents, teachers, and staff members whose support contributed to the success of the event.
Looking ahead, Beaconhouse Jubilee Campus plans to expand this initiative further by collaborating with local communities and institutions, continuing its commitment to nurturing environmentally responsible citizens and promoting sustainability through education.
Mian Zahid Hussain welcomes historic surge in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations; success in cricket diplomacy and trade hits $866m
Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum & All Karachi Industrial Alliance, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan, Chairman Policy Advisory Board FPCCI, and Former Provincial Minister Information Technology, today welcomed the “historic renaissance” in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations, citing new data that confirms a robust economic turnaround between the two nations.
Mian Zahid Hussain, stated that the thawing of frozen ties has yielded immediate economic dividends. He noted that bilateral trade volume surged by 20% in Fiscal Year 2025, reaching $866 million, up from $717 million the previous year.
“The restoration of brotherly ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh is not just a diplomatic success; it is a commercial imperative for South Asia,” Mian Zahid Hussain said. “With Pakistan’s exports to Bangladesh rising by approximately 19% to $787 million and imports growing by 42% to $78 million, we are witnessing the natural realignment of two economies that share deep complementarities in textiles, agriculture, and industrial raw materials.”
Mian Zahid Hussain highlighted the operational success of the direct shipping route between Karachi and Chittagong, established in late 2024, as a game-changer for the business community.
“The launch of direct shipping has revolutionized our logistics, slashing transit time from a cumbersome 23 days via third-party ports to just 10 to 11 days,” he observed. “Coupled with the Bangladesh government’s pragmatic decision in September 2024 to abolish the mandatory 100% physical inspection of Pakistani goods, we have seen a reduction in demurrage costs and a significant boost in investor confidence on both sides.”
The veteran business leader also commended the renewal of political and sporting ties, pointing to the 6th Round of Bilateral Consultations held in Dhaka in April 2025—the first such high-level dialogue in 15 years—as a critical milestone. He further applauded the “Cricket Diplomacy” witnessed recently, where both nations displayed solidarity at the International Cricket Council (ICC), protecting mutual interests regarding the T20 World Cup and ensuring fair treatment for South Asian cricketing giants.
“The solidarity shown in the sporting arena and the diplomatic corridors proves that the ice has not just melted; it has evaporated,” Mian Zahid Hussain added.
Looking forward, Mian Zahid Hussain urged both governments to capitalize on this momentum by finalizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and moving beyond the current framework to lock in tariff preferences, Easing Visa Regimes by facilitating business travel to sustain the current trade trajectory and Setting a $2 Billion Trade Target, aiming to double the current trade volume by FY2028. “The private sectors of Karachi and Chittagong are ready to lead this charge. We must ensure that bureaucratic red tape does not hinder the path to our shared prosperity,” he concluded.
‘Growth Roadmap’ encouraging; relief for textile, construction needed: Zahid Hussain
Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum & All Karachi Industrial Alliance, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan, Chairman Policy Advisory Board FPCCI, and Former Provincial Minister Information Technology, has welcomed Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s categorical statement at the FPCCI Lahore office that the government has successfully transitioned from “economic stabilization” to an “industrial growth” phase.
Reacting to the Minister’s address at the ‘Pakistan Economic Growth Conference’ held this Saturday at FPCCI Office Lahore, Mian Zahid Hussain stated that the business community is relieved to hear the Finance Minister finally acknowledge that the state cannot employ 250 million people and that the private sector is the primary engine of job creation. He noted that the Minister’s commitment to providing “all possible resources” to the private sector must now be translated into lower energy tariffs and single-digit interest rates, without which industrialization remains a pipe dream.
Mian Zahid Hussain specifically highlighted the Finance Minister’s promise regarding the Super Tax. He stated, “The Minister’s assurance that the government is reviewing the Super Tax mechanism and considering an installment plan for its payment is a major confidence booster. We urge the FBR to issue a notification for this installment facility within 48 hours to prevent the harassment of compliant taxpayers.”
The veteran business leader also stressed the urgency of the Minister’s timeline for the textile sector. “Mr. Aurangzeb has asked for 10 to 12 days to announce concrete steps for the textile industry. We welcome this deadline, but we warn that with exports already under pressure from regional competitors like India—who have secured duty-free access to Western markets—any delay beyond this timeframe will be disastrous,” he said. He further appreciated the Minister’s candid admission that IT exports are currently hovering around $3-4 billion but have the potential to hit $10 billion if the “digital ecosystem” is facilitated rather than police. Mian Zahid Hussain also appreciated the invitation of the finance minister to various sectoral associations for the extended dialogues in Islamabad in the next fortnight.
Mian Zahid Hussain also supported the Minister’s tough stance on tax evasion, citing the FIR against a sitting senator in the tobacco sector as proof of the government’s writ. However, he urged that this strict enforcement should be directed at the Rs 3 trillion informal sector and smugglers, rather than squeezing the existing salaried class and documented industries and commercial entities.
He concluded by demanding that the promised “Construction Relief Package” be decoupled from real estate speculation and focused entirely on low-cost housing and industrial infrastructure to jumpstart the 40 allied industries linked to construction. “The Finance Minister has spoken the language of the business community in Lahore; now Islamabad’s bureaucracy must implement his vision,” Mian Zahid Hussain added.
Russian, German, and English editions of the book ‘Najmi Healing Energy’ published
The book was originally published in Urdu in July 2013 by Al-Sehat Foundation, Karachi, Pakistan. In response to growing international interest, the work has now been released in several major global languages.
The Russian edition was published on November 17, 2025, by Najmi International, Moscow, Russia. The German edition was released on July 10, 2025, in Berlin, Germany, while the English edition was published on July 2, 2025, in Denver, USA.
All editions of the book are available free of charge online for study and to promote the dissemination of knowledge worldwide.
Dr. Syed Shahzad Ali Najmi, a Pakistani Sufi inspired by the renowned spiritual figure Qalander Baba Auliya, developed this healing system after recognizing the need for an Islamic spiritual alternative to contemporary energy-healing practices. Following extensive research and practical experimentation between 2001 and 2012, he introduced this method under the name Najmi Healing Energy and authored a scientifically structured book to explain its principles.
Since its introduction, the system has gained significant recognition internationally. The method is offered as a healing approach open to all humanity, without any religious or cultural discrimination.