Growth of CPEC vital in terms of the solution of energy issues Interview with Malik Muhammad Illyas — a businessman from Badin PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Malik Muhammad Illyas: I am owner of petroleum service and President Petroleum Dealers of district Badin. I am former President Press Club Badin. Being a businessman and journalist, I am optimistic for real change in Pakistan towards progressive and innovative initiatives and for the milestones of prosperity. PAGE: How would you comment on CPEC as a game changer? Malik Muhammad Illyas: CPEC is surely going to be a game changer eventually helping the…
Author: Khalil Ahmed
ZMT is one of the largest Primary Healthcare network in Karachi. ZMT has directly benefited more than 1,500,000 patients annually with quality treatment. So far ZMT has served more than 6.6 million deserving patients majorly focusing on women and children. PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST sought perspective of the patients and the staff members regarding ZMT. Following are the excerpts of the viewpoints. Patients experience: Guljoon from Mominabad while talking about ZMT told us as follows: I brought my 8 months old son with chest congestion and cough. My son got better with the medication. Staff is nice and treated us very…
Following are the excerpts of the conversation of Mr Abdul Rahim Janoo, Chairman of Haji Razzak Janoo Memorial Trust, Baba Farid Free Laser Surgery Eye Camp and Former Chairman Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) while talking to PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST. With the mercy of Almighty Allah, Baba Farid Free Eye Camp at Pak Pattan is completed to provide free eye treatment to less-privileged people of remote areas. The free camp is being setup by the Haji Razzak Janoo Memorial Trust, one of the largest free eye camp trust in Pakistan under the management of Janoo family that holds…
Refund system should be rationalized and refund amount should be issued speedily Stress-free business community can help rule on shadow economy FBR targets should be realistic and achievable Interview with Mr Shehzad Ahmed Malik – CEO, Shehzad Malik Management Consultants and Vice President ICMA Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Shehzad Ahmed Malik is FCMA, CFC, M.A. Economics Authorized training employer ICAEW-Institute of Chartered Accountants of England & Wales, U.K. CEO-Shehzad Malik Management Consultants (Pvt) Ltd Vice President, ICMA Pakistan Executive Member Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce Board Member of Different Companies Chairman Technical Support & Development Committee ICMAP[/box] PAGE: What…
Country achieves exceptional progress in ease of doing business Public Sector Companies must improve their governance and efficiency Interview of Mr. Awais Yasin – Member, National Council and Chairman Research and Publications Committee, ICMA Pakistan PAGE: Tell me something about yourself please: Awais Yasin: I am a fellow member of Institute of Cost & Management Accountants (FCMA) of Pakistan and have done LLB from Punjab University Law College, Lahore. I have diversified experience of more than 18 years in Corporate laws & Secretariat practices in different renowned listed and public sector companies. Being part of senior management, I remained involved with…
Al Meezan Investments offers a comprehensive range of Shariah compliant investment solutions Interview with Mohammad Shoaib — CFA , CEO, Al Meezan Investments PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Mohammad Shoaib: I have the honor of being the founding CEO of Al Meezan Investment Management Ltd, which is the first and still the only full-fledged Shariah Compliant Asset Management Company in Pakistan. Al Meezan Investments is managing investments of over Rs.200 Billion (as on June 30, 2021) USD 1.27 Billion across 20 mutual funds/pension funds and discretionary portfolios on behalf of over 145,000 clients. We have over…
FDI must for the growth of failing power sector The most adverse side of the inflation is not its rate, it is its patterns Have to lean on remittances to control current account balance Interview with Dr. Ayub Mehar, — a renowned economist PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Dr. Ayub Mehar: I have been serving as ‘Economic Advisor’ of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Chamber of Commerce for 3 years and also ‘Director General’ in the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) for 7 years. I have completed and working on various research assignments for Asian…
Interview with Mr Ashfaq Yousuf Tola — President, TOLA ASSOCIATES [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Professional Accomplishments Memberships: Fellow Member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan Fellow Member of the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan Life Member of Karachi Press Club Life Member of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Member of Karachi Tax Bar Association. Key Achievements: Presentation to IMF on Single Stage Sales Tax in December 2015 Visited Turkey as an official of Government of Pakistan to study Turkish Tax System and authored a report on Turkish Taxation System Knowledge of more than 40…
Interview with Mr. Waheed Ahmed — Patron-in-chief Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PVFA) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Current Responsibilities: Director Marketing, Iftekhar Ahmed & Co. (2004 to date) Head of National Horticulture Committee, Govt. of Pakistan Appointed as Head of National Horticulture Committee, Government of Pakistan – FPCCI 2019 Convener: FPCCI standing committee on fruit & vegetable exports Member: Fruit & Vegetable Committee at Trade Development Authority Pakistan Patron-in-Chief: All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable, Exporters, Importers & Merchant Association (PFVA) Previous Responsibilities: Former Vice President: Elected as Vice President of the Pakistan Federation of Chamber Of Commerce & Industry…
Where should the remittances sent by the Pakistani diaspora be invested? Well, the prevalent assumption is that the major chunk of this wherewithal penetrates into the real estate sector rather than agriculture, domestic bonds, energy sector, infrastructure, local manufacturing of the imported constituents for the exportable products, domestic savings or SMEs, Pakistan received $29.4billion remittances during the preceding fiscal year which was a record and helped in addressing the economic woes of the country in trying times. The momentum has maintained and the Pakistani diaspora have remitted $8 billion during the first quarter of the current fiscal year which is…
Interview of Mr. Zia ul Mustafa, President ICMA Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Zia ul Mustafa is currently the President of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan) for a three-year term i.e. 2021-2023. He also served as the President of the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) in the year 2020 and held the Chairmanship of the SAFA Committee on Governmental and Public Sector Enterprises Accounting. SAFA is a regional forum representing over 3,75,000 accountants having membership of the national chartered accountancy and cost and management accountancy institutions in the South Asian countries namely…
Interview with Mr Muhammad Idrees, President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career, please: MUHAMMAD IDREES: Well, I have been elected to lead the largest Chamber of Pakistan as its President for the year 2021-22. I have remained associated with the Businessmen Group (BMG) for more than two decades which was founded by our great leader Late Siraj Kassam Teli who passed away last year in Dubai due to cardiac arrest. I have also offered my services as Vice President KCCI in 2013-14 and President Karachi Electronic Dealers Association (KEDA) from 2009 to…
Interview with Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo, President Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Hailing from a Chinoti business family, Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo was raised in Karachi. After completing his formal education, he ventured into the intricate world of business and established Al Riaz Group, an indenting company in Pakistan. The company’s phenomenal success can be attributed to Maggo’s sheer hard work, passion and commitment. Today, Al Riaz Group is recognized as one of the most reliable company in Pakistan dealing in Petrochemicals, Textiles and Steel sectors. Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo Possesses…
Food insecurity is one of the most-talked-about topics across the globe in the wake of pandemic, which has wreaked havoc by disrupting the global food supply chains causing surge in prices coupled with the inclement weather which has left adverse impact on the crop yields. There is anticipation that over 1.2 billion people in 76 countries along with Pakistan would undergo food insecurity impact which must be the cause of substantial concern. The Agricultural Transformation Plan (ATP) of the PTI-led government if works could revolutionise the agriculture sector. The Agri Dashboard is said to be helpful in timely decision-making, demand-supply…
Let alone the impoverished community living in downscale areas or in slums, even the so-called middle class segment of the society is perturbed with the ever-surging edible oil prices in Pakistan at this juncture. Paying around Rs1,650 vis-à-vis Rs1,150 a year ago for five liters of branded edible oil has left even the middle class somewhat vulnerable in the given circumstances. The skyrocketing inflation has become catastrophic for the monthly budget of every household in the country. Though the government has recently come up with certain incentives in terms of reduction in taxes, which might decelerate the prices of edible…
Interview with Mr Anis Majeed – Chairman, Bombi’s Group PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your business please: ANIS MAJEED: I am Chairman of Bombi’s Group. I have served as Convener Pulses Committee of Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). I have also served as Chairman Karachi Wholesales Grocers Association (KWGA), Managing Committee member of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and General Body Member of FPCCI. I am part of various other business and social associations to give services for Trade and Industry. I have been in the commodities business for more than 35 years.…
Interview with Mr. Abdul Rahim Janoo, a leading businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Occupation: Export and Import. Nature Of Business : Export:- Rice, Grain, Agrobased Products, Spices/Sugar/Wheat & By Products. Import:- Milk Powder/Tea/Rubber/Spices. Land Lords:- Property owners and giving properties on rent. Petrol Pumps: Owner and operator of petrol pumps. President: Memon Leadership Forum (MLF) Convener: Memon Leadership Conference (MLC) Chairman: South Zone Group (REAP) Haji Razak Janoo Memorial Trust, Karachi. Pakistan Economic Forum. Masjid Al-Razak, S.I.T.E / Masjid Al-Hamida, Super Highway/ Jama Masid Haider-E-Karrar (Clifton) / Jama Masjid Mustafa, (Nooriabad)/Jama Masjid Umer (Manzoor Colony) Ex-Chairman: Rice Exporters Association…
Interview with Mr Kaukab Iqbal, founder and Chairman Consumers’ Association of Pakistan PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career? Kaukab Iqbal: I am founder and Chairman of the Consumers Association of Pakistan, serving as Board of Director Universal Service Fund Ministry of Information Technology Government of Pakistan, Convener FPCCI Central Standing Committee on Consumers Protection & Adulteration 2021, Vice Chairman National Standards Committee – Management System Standard Division (MSSD), Member Task Force Commissioner Karachi, Lifetime Member Art Council of Pakistan, Vice Chairman Pakistan Economic Forum, Member Technical Advisory Committee Sindh Health Care Commission, President Pakistan Sri Lanka Friendship Association…
Bumper wheat production is doable job Interest-free loan to farmers surely support economy and agri sector Interview with Mr Nadeem Shah — Vice President, Sindh Abadgar Board PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your contribution for the betterment of the agriculture sector, please: Nadeem Shah: I got involved in agriculture at the age of 17, way back in 1975 simultaneously continuing my education. I did my B. Sc. (honors), DBS and MBA. My social activities comprise being Joint Chief CPLC Hyderabad, Member PCCC, Member Provincial Seed Council, Member Sindh Seed Corporation, Member Academic Council Agriculture University Tando Jam, Vice President…
Consumer finance is in inverse proportion to discount rate. There is no denying that low discount rate all over the globe is an indication of spike in consumer finance. Low discount rate undoubtedly underpins the consumer financing opportunities substantially both in developed as well as developing and even in the rickety economies. Decisions are taken by the central banks in liaison with the finance ministry all over the world to decelerate discount rates to substantiate economic growth during trying times which holds true in particular during the preceding two years of the pandemic. The policy interest rate in Pakistan was…
Interview with Mr Ashfaq Yousuf Tola – President, Tola Associates [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Professional Accomplishments Memberships: Fellow Member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan Fellow Member of the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan Life Member of Karachi Press Club Life Member of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Member of Karachi Tax Bar Association. Key Achievements: Presentation to IMF on Single Stage Sales Tax in December 2015 Visited Turkey as an official of Government of Pakistan to study Turkish Tax System and authored a report on Turkish Taxation System Knowledge of more than 40…
Under Imran Khan’s leadership Pakistan has a bright shining future Interview with Mr Farooq Dadi — a renowned businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Farooq Dadi is a renowned businessman and a socio-political/economic analyst based in Karachi. He regularly gives his analysis on different TV channels. He is a well-known social person in the business community and other services organisations i.e. Rotary etc. to serve the community with true means. He is an active member of Polio Eradication Programme in Pakistan.[/box] PAGE: What is your take on consumer financing? Farooq Dadi: Consumer financing is improving in the wake of the…
Buy things only you need but not just for the sake of discount Interview with Mohammed Abdullah Batra – President, Orangi Traders’ Association PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career, please: Mohammed Abdullah Batra: I am a businessman and a social worker. I believe in doing something for the downtrodden since it a kind of giving back to the society. This is our moral obligation to ensure that the impoverished population is helped and taken care of, no matter what area of the country they live in. We all need to be humane. I am also the President of Orangi…
Interview with Mr Khalid Tawab – Chairman, Tawab Group [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Khalid Tawab is an economics, finance and international trade expert. He is a prominent businessman and former Minister of Commerce & Industry Government of Sindh and former Senior Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). He has also served as Vice President and Chairman of various Advisory Committees. He is former Senior Vice President of Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Government of Pakistan conferred the award of Sitara-i-Imtiaz on him in 2008 for his services. He has…
Interview with Dr. Abdul Bari Khan — Chief Executive Officer, Indus Health Network PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and Indus Hospital & Health Network, please: Dr. Abdul Bari Khan: I was born in Karachi in a family originally from Peshawar. To my good fortune, my family was widely known for their piety, alturism, compassion and generosity towards community and humanity. I consider myself blessed to have inculcated these values since childhood and have tried my best to live my life promoting and practicing the same. My childhood, college and higher education is from Karachi and I feel fortunate to have been…
Interview with Mr. Najmus Saquib Hameed (T.I) — Honorary Chairman, LRBT PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and LRBT, please: Najmus Saquib Hameed: LRBT was established 35 years ago by two retiring CEOs, Graham Layton & Zaka Rahmatulla’ as a pay back to the country where they had been so successful. Shocked by the unnecessary misery caused by blindness which at that time was 1.8 % of the population with impaired vision being an additional 18%, they decided to focus on eye care especially as 90 % of blindness & impaired vision is curable. The lack and accessibility of facilities and unaffordability…
Interview with Mr Asad Mujtaba – COO, SINA Health Education & Welfare Trust PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and SINA, please: ASAD MUJTABA: I joined SINA as Chief Operating Officer in 2019. I hold an MBA degree and various certifications. I have gotten diversified experience of various industries while working with reputable multinationals for 30 years in Pakistan & abroad. SINA Health, Education and Welfare Trust is a privately funded not-for-profit organization, serving the community since 1998. SINA is operating a network of 33 clinic locations of which 2 are referral clinics and 3 are mobile clinic locations. These collectively cater…
FEF doing its best to combat malnutrition menace Will support 5000 children in next five years Interview with Mr Naveed Gilani – Founder, Fortify Education Foundation [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Pakistan’s nutritional status of children is very poor that adversely impacts their physical and mental health. This poverty of nutrition manifests with the delay in their physical growth, their motor development, low intellectual quotient, deficient social skills and even behavioral issues. Fortify Education Foundation (FEF) was formed to combat this malnutrition menace by providing nutrition to underprivileged children in schools. Starting its operations in February 2020, FEF instituted its…
– Strong freight forwarding industry imperative for Pakistan to capitalize on emerging opportunities – An efficient logistics cycle is key for valuable foreign exchange of the country Interview with Malik Naeem Azam – President, Global Business Solutions Pakistan PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST had an exclusive conversation with Malik Naeem Azam vis-à-vis Global Business Solutions Pakistan, Freight Management, Freight Forwarding and Logistics Industry, Role in Trade Facilitation, Global Competitiveness, Current Trends in Logistics Practice World-Wide, Current Issues Faced By The Industry and the Challenges Faced By Freight Forwarders in 2021. The excerpts of the conversation are as follows: GBS is the highly-specialized…
*Gwadar and Thar coal surely put Pakistan in the ranks of a developed nation *Intra-transport shortcomings, capacity deficiencies, obsolete laws and rules must be resolved *Pakistan maritime sector needs investment and policy changes Interview with Mr Majyd Aziz – – President UN Global Network Pakistan PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Majyd Aziz: I am an industrialist and businessman. Presently, I am President UN Global Network Pakistan. I am Former President of Employers Federation of Pakistan, South Asian Forum of Employers, and Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Former Chairman of SITE Association of Industry, and ex Member…
*The shipping industry in Pakistan is lagging far behind its neighboring countries *Gwadar is soon going to become the hub of commercial activities in Pakistan Interview of Mr. Shaham Ahmad — Honorary Secretary, ICMA Pakistan PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization? Shaham Ahmad: I am a Fellow member of ICMA Pakistan and as a result of the recent elections I have been elected as a member of the current National Council of the Institute for the three-year term 2021 to 2023. The Council has nominated me as the ‘Honorary Secretary’ of the Institute in that capacity I am responsible…
Interview with Dr. Aman Kassim Machiyara – Chairman, ZMT Primary Healthcare Network [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: For the past two decades, Dr. Aman Kassim Machiyara has been working for empowering primary healthcare by making it accessible and affordable in underprivileged localities so that despite the socio-economic challenges people may get timely quality treatment. Dr. Aman Kassim Machiyara completed his M.B.B.S from Sindh Medical College (SMC), Karachi. He is a successful industrialist and a Director of Machiyara group of companies, which is one of the leading business groups in Pakistan, with extensive experience in the fields of construction, real estate…
Interview with Shaikh Muhammad Muneer– leader of the business community of Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: S.M. Muneer is the Chairman of Din Group of Industries and former CEO Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). His company Din Leather (Pvt.) Ltd, is the biggest exporter of leather in Pakistan and he has five textile mills in the name of Din Textile Mills in Lahore. Position in companies Chairman: 1) M/s. Din Leather (pvt) Ltd. – The leading exporting company of Finished Leather in Pakistan having most modern tanning unit in Karachi with last year annual turnover of about Pak.…
Interview with M. Shariq Vohra—President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: CEO Shazil Group of Companies Representation in Public Sector Bodies / Government Corporations Member: Sectoral Advisory Committee, Environment Climate Change & Coastal Development Department, Government of Sindh Provincial Steering Committee, Services, General Administration & Coordination Department, Government of Sindh Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Sindh Solid Waste Management Board, Government of Sindh Industrial Liaison Committee, Industries & Commerce Department, Government of Sindh Coordination Committee, Labour & Human Resources Department, Government of Sindh National Centre for Dispute Resolution (NCDR) NICVD National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Federal…
Under CPEC Pakistan set to become an investment hub in the region Interview with Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo – President, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Hailing from a Chinoti business family, Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo was raised in Karachi. After completing his formal education, he ventured into the intricate world of business and established Al Riaz Group, an indenting company in Pakistan. The company’s phenomenal success can be attributed to Maggo’s sheer hard work, passion, and commitment. Today, Al Riaz Group is recognized as one of the most reliable company in…
More good policies help Pakistan bring investment from Afghanistan Opening of new projects with UAE may increase revenue flow Interview with Mr Ahmed Chinoy (H.I,S.I) — a renowned businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Ahmed Chinoy is a businessman by profession and social activist by nature. Being in his profession for over 25 years with a vast experience and knowledge, he is associated with the textile industry since the beginning of his career. He is also the current past Chairman of Pakistan Cloth Merchants Association, an organization looking after the trade regulations with regards to textiles in the country. His…
– Diaspora investments are going to quadruple in the coming years ahead – For absolute returns, the stock market stands out empirically Interview with Syed Ali Raza Bukhari — Head of SMAs National Investment Trust Limited PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career please: Syed Ali Raza Bukhari: Prior to joining National Investment Trust Limited as the Head of SMAs in 2018, I have had the opportunity to set up and successfully manage a Pakistan Stock Exchange Member Brokerage firm, bringing it up as a boutique institutional trading platform. I have also been associated with the asset management industry…
Gwadar’s development opening opportunities for other cities to grow Interview with Sardar Shoukat Popalzai – President, Balochistan Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Sardar Shoukat Popalzai is President of Balochistan Economic Forum. The Balochistan Economic Forum is a think tank-cum-business & economic policy advocacy forum established in 1992 and presently striving for the economic development & attracting investment in the province of Balochistan. The Balochistan Economic Forum has been designed to familiarize the national & international economic community with opportunities for trade and investment in the province of Balochistan. Since its inception, the Balochistan Economic Forum has played an…
Stable and inclusive govt in Kabul may open ways for foreign investment Interview with Hamad Rasool Bhullar – an analyst PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: HRB: I am currently working with a large public sector organization. With respect to the financial sector, I have been involved in research and training for over 28 years and so far, and conducted over 300 trainings on different aspects of Finance, Business Ethics, Audit and Corporate Governance from basic concepts to professional applications in Projects Finance, Shariah Compliant risk management, investment management and Corporate Governance etc. in addition to the freelance consultancy and Financial…
Under PM Imran Khan country will prosper and grow economically Nation is much eager and anxious to celebrate 75th Independence Day Interview of Mr. Zia ul Mustafa – President, ICMA Pakistan PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please? Zia ul Mustafa: I am currently the President of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan) for a three-year term i.e. 2021-2023. I also served as the President of the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) in the year 2020 and held the Chairmanship of the SAFA Committee on Governmental and Public Sector Enterprises Accounting. SAFA is a regional…
Suggests overseas Pakistan to use great RDA facility but do not expect returns into dollar denomination Gov rigorous tax regime is detrimental to the development of investor base at PSE Interview with Sani-e-Mehmood Khan — Chief Executive Officer, Securities Exchange Management Suite [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr. Sani-e-Mehmood Khan has over 27 years of management experience in Capital Markets, IT, Regulation Development, Controls and Fund Management. He is presently serving as the CEO of Financial Technology Company and a Capital Market Consulting Company. He is also serving on the Advisory Board of Pakistan’s eminent think tank, Islamabad Policy Institute,…
Country’s economy heading in the right direction and set to restore investor confidence Right time for local, overseas Pakistanis to invest in Mutual Funds and Capital Markets Interview with Mohammad Shoaib — CFA, CEO, Al Meezan Investments PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Mohammad Shoaib: I am the founding CEO of Al Meezan Investment Management Ltd, which is the first and the only full-fledged Shariah Compliant Asset Management Company in Pakistan. Al Meezan Investments is managing investments of over Rs.200 billion (as on June 30, 2021) across 18 mutual funds/pension funds and discretionary portfolios on behalf of…
Greater financial inclusion and newer opportunities need of the moment Meezan Bank taking lead in e-commerce development in the country Interview with Mr. Irfan Siddiqui — President and CEO, Meezan Bank Limited PAGE: Tell me something Meezan Bank, please: Irfan Siddiqui: Meezan Bank is the first and largest Islamic bank of Pakistan and Alhamdulillah has witnessed an average of 40-50% growth in the size of its branch network each year ever since its inception; beginning with four branches in 2002 to reaching a nationwide network of 835 full-fledged commercial banking branches today. Out of the 36 commercial banks in the country…
Interview with Miss Tara Uzra Dawood — CEO & Founder, 786 Investments Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Miss Tara Uzra Dawood is the CEO and Founder of 786 Investments Ltd., one of Pakistan’s oldest asset management companies. It is publicly listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. She also currently sits on the boards of Pakistan State Oil Company Limited where she chairs the Board Audit, HR and IT/Innovation committees, Pakistan Refinery Limited, Dawood Family Takaful Limited and previously was on the boards of Lahore Electric Supply Company and the Mutual Funds Association of Pakistan. She is certified in Corporate Governance…
The banking services innovate after Covid but will follow through Interview with Dr. Ayub Mehar — a renowned economist PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career, please: Dr. Ayub Mehar: I am associated as ‘Economic Advisor’ with the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan and serving as ‘Professor’ in Iqra University Karachi (Pakistan). I have been serving as ‘Economic Advisor’ of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Chamber of Commerce for 3 years and also ‘Director General’ in the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) for 7 years. Development Financing, Macroeconomic Policies, International Trade and Finance are areas of…
Interview with Mr. Barkatullah Lone — Chairman, GB International Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr. Barkatullah Lone is Chairman of GB International Economic Forum and a renowned young Economist of Pakistan. He was ranked in the top ten Economists of Pakistan in the year 2017. He is a Chartered Management Accountant and Chartered Certified Accountant from UK, Chartered Global Management Accountant from the USA, Gold Medalist Management Accountant and Public Finance Accountant from Pakistan plus he holds master’s degree in Economics and Law from Karachi University. He is presently pursuing specialization in Finance and Audit from the Institute of…
PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST had an exclusive conversation with Mr Muneer Ahmed, Head of International Sales & Marketing Mehran Group of Industries, and Mr Kashif Ali Mughal, Brand Manager, Mehran Group of Industries. The entire conversation was premised on Brand Value, Market Share, Competitors and Brand Strategies. The excerpts of the conversation are as follows: Mehran began its journey in 1975 from a single plant in SITE, Karachi. The focus on quality and taste that were part of the brand’s core philosophy, however, soon resulted in positive response from the consumers, and rapid uptake in the market. Within a few years…
Interview with Mr Rafiq Rangoonwala — a leading businessman PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Rafiq Rangoonwala: I am associated with food business for last 40 years. I started my career with KFC in Houston, worked in Caribbean looking after English speaking islands, later on was transferred to Middle East as Market Director of KFC, MENA Region. Moved to Pakistan at the end of 1999 as CEO of KFC till 2014. Also managed brands, like Pizza Hut, Hardees, Burger King, Harry Ramsden, Pizza Express, TGI Fridays, etc. PAGE: Could you tell us about the progress and facilities of Mon Salwa? Rafiq…
Interview with Mr Farooq Dadi — a renowned businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Farooq Dadi is a bona fide businessman having done his honours and masters in the subject of international relations from Karachi University. He was a student leader and was the Chairman of Pakistan Liberal Students. It was one of the leading student parties during 1970s. He started his career as a businessman but was more focused as a socio-economic activist. He used to identify leakage of revenue from CBR (Central Board of Revenue) which is now FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) contributes 60 percent to…
PCB needs more hard work and modification to make it more successful Naya Nazimabad Gymkhana soon to be transformed into Sports City of Pakistan Interview with Muhammad Talha – an analyst PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career please: Muhammad Talha: I am working in Arif Habib Group for last 12 years. Before joining Javedan Corporation Limited, I served in Al-Abbas Group, Ghulam Farooq Group and EY Ford Rhodes, which helped me gain experience in diversified sectors. During my working experience which is spanning for more than 20 years in various diversified capacities including Investment Analyst, CFO, Property Head…
Muhammad Kareem, an elderly person from Chaman Balochistan, apprised PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST that he was at LRBT for the treatment of his eyes and was rather delighted that the doctors and the ancillary staff were quite nice to every patient. Muhammad Yaseen, an impoverished citizen of Rahim Yar Khan, brought his 60 years old sister, Jeevan, for her eye-treatment. He himself got treated free of cost at LRBT. Abdul Lateef from Khairpur Mirs came to Karachi for the treatment of the eyes of his son. He is an employee at a petrol pump with monthly income of nine thousand…
Interview with Mr Ahmed Owais Thanvi — Managing Director Kings Group of Builders, Developers & Contractors PAGE: Kindly tell me about yourself and your organization: Ahmed Owais Thanvi: I am a forerunner in making remote lands valuable by constructing high quality houses/high-rise buildings there. I am an innovator and entrepreneur with 12 years’ of experience in business leadership, expert in all aspects of business formation, operation, raising finance and management. I have the optimism and risk-taking ability, which include initiation of construction of high-rise buildings in the areas of Karachi where constructing high-rise buildings was not feasible because of lack of…
Interview with M Shariq Vohra – President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: CEO Shazil Group of Companies Representation in Public Sector Bodies/Government Corporations Member: Sectoral Advisory Committee, Environment Climate Change & Coastal Development Department, Government of Sindh Provincial Steering Committee, Services, General Administration & Coordination Department, Government of Sindh Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Sindh Solid Waste Management Board, Government of Sindh Industrial Liaison Committee, Industries & Commerce Department, Government of Sindh Coordination Committee, Labour & Human Resources Department, Government of Sindh National Centre for Dispute Resolution (NCDR) NICVD National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Federal Tax…
Working together for creating digital ecosystem to benefit all Pakistanis Interview with Mr M. Mudassar Aqil — CEO, Telenor Microfinance Bank/Easypaisa PAGE: Please tell me something about yourself and your organization? Mudassar Aqil: I started my career in commercial banking in the United States and in my experience working in this sector for over two decades both abroad and in Pakistan, I have had the pleasure of working in diverse areas such as organizational restructuring, digital finance, FinTech partnerships and business growth. Before joining Telenor Microfinance Bank in 2019, I was the President & CEO of Finca Microfinance Bank. Since I…
PSX proposals and recommendations favourably considered in budget 2021-22 Under RDA overseas Pakistanis have a transparent and convenient conduit to invest in PSE Interview with Mr. Farrukh H. Khan — CEO & MD, Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and Pakistan Stock Exchange, please: Farrukh H. Khan: About myself, I have held several senior positions in the past which include positions of responsibility in banking, starting companies as well as non-executive directorships in major public and private companies. I was head of treasury and investment banking at American Express Bank in 1991 when I started BMA Capital…
Enormous facilities for industrial growth and large consumption of manpower provided Interview with Mr Zafar Iqbal — a businessman/an industrialist/an educationist PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Zafar Iqbal: I am Founder President of Small & Medium Enterprises Alliance (SAMEA) which was inaugurated on 20th March 2000 by Mr. Shaukat Aziz, the then Finance Minister and Prime Minister of Pakistan. I have been highlighting in TV interviews and at various important forums the problems faced by the SMEs and I also present suggestions for the improvement and the development of the SMEs such as the establishment of industrial parks for the…
Muhammad Kareem, an elderly person from Chaman Balochistan, apprised PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST that he was at LRBT for the treatment of his eyes and was rather delighted that the doctors and the ancillary staff were quite nice to every patient. Muhammad Yaseen, an impoverished citizen of Rahim Yar Khan, brought his 60 years old sister, Jeevan, for her eye-treatment. He himself got treated free of cost at LRBT. Abdul Lateef from Khairpur Mirs came to Karachi for the treatment of the eyes of his son. He is an employee at a petrol pump with monthly income of nine thousand…
Working together for creating digital ecosystem to benefit all Pakistanis Interview with Mr M. Mudassar Aqil — CEO, Telenor Microfinance Bank/Easypaisa PAGE: Please tell me something about yourself and your organization? Mudassar Aqil: I started my career in commercial banking in the United States and in my experience working in this sector for over two decades both abroad and in Pakistan, I have had the pleasure of working in diverse areas such as organizational restructuring, digital finance, FinTech partnerships and business growth. Before joining Telenor Microfinance Bank in 2019, I was the President & CEO of Finca Microfinance Bank. Since I…
Major issues in energy production is high cost of electricity production, tariff anomalies, circular debt, others Interview with Mr Khalid Tawab – Chairman, Tawab Group [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Khalid Tawab is an economics, finance and international trade expert. He is a prominent businessman and former Minister of Commerce & Industry Government of Sindh and former Senior Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). He has also served as Vice President and Chairman of various Advisory Committees & Senior Vice President of Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Government of Pakistan…
Interview with Muhammad Farooq Afzal — President/CEO ITN Group of Companies [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Muhammad Farooq Afzal is a dynamic and a profound professional in the realm of Textiles, Information Technology, Business Consultancy, Tourism, and Event Management. He has been pursuing his entrepreneurial ambitions for last 21 years, locally & internationally. He has been playing an instrumental role in promoting trade and business ties between Pakistan and other countries since 2004. Farooq had been continuously putting in his multifaceted efforts towards the cause of promotion of bilateral and multilateral trade. Mr. Farooq has also been participating in TV…
There is a fascinating discourse these days almost at every forum about the government claim of the GDP growth to be achieved by the end of this fiscal. This claim is out of the blue since a couple of months ago, the GDP growth estimates were rather contrary to the present one even by the government circles and the central bank of Pakistan, let alone the IMF and the World Bank. Even 3% growth was being deemed overly optimistic until recently. The question is whether this growth estimate is solely premised on the foreign remittances and agriculture output. There is…
Interview with Mr Ashfaq Yousuf Tola – President, Tola Associates [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Professional Accomplishments Memberships: Fellow Member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan Fellow Member of the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan Life Member of Karachi Press Club Life Member of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Member of Karachi Tax Bar Association. Key Achievements: Presentation to IMF on Single Stage Sales Tax in December 2015 Visited Turkey as an official of Government of Pakistan to study Turkish Tax System and authored a report on Turkish Taxation System Knowledge of more than 40…
Mehran Spice & Food Industries completely, strictly compliant of Covid SOPs and ensure the food supplies Interview with Mr Gul Mohammad Lot – Chairman, Mehran Group of Industries PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Gul Mohammad Lot: I was born in Pakistan, in the Diplo area of Thar District in Sindh. I joined my father, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Lot, in his business at a very young age. As far as education is concerned, I completed my bachelors from the London School of Business in administration and obtained my Master’s degree in political science from the University of Sindh,…
Country is truly capable to meet food crisis under pandemic and onwards Need of an investment strategy response in order to reverse some of the post Covid-19 distress Vigorous attempts are must for health sector improvement Interview with Mr. Abdul Rahim Janoo — a leading businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Occupation: Export and import. Nature of business: Export — rice, grain, agrobased products, spices, sugar, wheat & by products. Import — milk powder, tea, rubber, spices. Land lords — property owners and giving properties on rent. Petrol pumps — owner and operator of petrol pumps. President: Memon Leadership Forum…
Interview with Sardar Shoukat Popalzai – President, Balochistan Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, President of the Balochistan Economic Forum, comes from the traditional Popalzai tribe. He gained his academic degree in International Relations with major in Diplomacy and Anti-Terrorism. He has been leading many Ministerial, Governmental and private business delegations to various countries and is also a member of several important advisory committees of prestigious government organizations and business representative bodies. Over the years, he has made presentations at numerous important conferences and high-level corporate briefings. He is recipient of awards from the USA, the…
Remittances into Pakistan set to reach $30 billion next year Action against Hundi/Hawala functions likely improve country’s image Interview with Muhammad Azam Khan — Economist/Capital Market Expert PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Muhammad Azam Khan: I have more than 20 years of experience in financial sector including investment banking, capital markets with primary and secondary market activities, mutual funds, equity brokerage (local and international), block deals & corporate finance within and outside Pakistan. Over the last 12 years, I performed as CEO/Nominee Director of leading brokerage house, provided expert advisory services to equity desk of major institutions (local and international…
Govt taking right steps over menace of illegal transfer of money to meet its global obligations Interview with Mr. Barkatullah Lone – Chairman, GB International Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr. Barkatullah Lone is Chairman of GB International Economic Forum and a renowned young economist of Pakistan. He is a Chartered Management Accountant and Chartered Certified Accountant from UK, Chartered Global Management Accountant from the USA, Gold Medalist Management Accountant and Public Finance Accountant from Pakistan plus he holds master’s degree in Economics and Law from Karachi University. He is presently pursuing specialization in Finance and Audit from the…
Interview with Mr Anis Majeed – Chairman, Bombi’s Group PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your business please: Anis Majeed: I am Chairman of Bombi’s Group and Convener Pulses Committee of Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). I have also served as Chairman Karachi Wholesales Grocers Association (KWGA) for 16 years, Managing Committee member of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and General Body Member of FPCCI. I am part of various other business and social associations to give services for Trade and Industry. I have been in the commodities business for more than 35 years. I…
PAKISTAN & GULF ECONOMIST had conversation with Siani Bugtti Baloch. Following are the excerpts of the conversation: “With education I am positive every Pakistani girl can grow up with opportunities and become a woman of colour in a developed world where she gets to decide how she lives her life.”– Siani Bugtti Baloch I was born in Larkana, Pakistan amongst the hay, animals and farmland like any other Balochi child. Little did I know what awaited me across many oceans and foreign lands. At the age of six months, my mother and I migrated to East London with my late…
Good time to target tech-savvy people and to identify protection and concept of Takaful Interview with Muhammad Nasir Ali Syed — CEO, Pak-Qatar General Takaful Limited PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Muhammad Nasir Ali Syed: I am CEO of Pak-Qatar General Takaful Limited. I have over 28 years of rich experience in Group Operations, Individual Operations, Claims, Reinsurance/Retakaful & Corporate Distribution of Life Insurance & Takaful Industry of Pakistan. I joined Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited as Head of Operations in 2007. Being the founding member of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited, I built the foundations of Operations…
To eradicate Riba is duty of every Muslim and custodians of Islamic financial system Al Meezan leads in offering first Islamic Exchange Traded Fund and RDA Investment account for overseas investors Interview with Mohammad Shoaib — CFA, CEO, Al Meezan Investment Management Ltd PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization: Mohammad Shoaib: I am Mohammad Shoaib. I am the founding CEO of Al Meezan Investment Management Limited, which is the first and the only full-fledged Shariah Compliant Asset Management Company in Pakistan. Currently Al Meezan Investments is managing investments of over Rs.180 billion (as on March 31, 2021) across…
Interview with Mr Hamad Rasool Bhullar – an analyst PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your career, please: Hamad Rasool Bhullar: I am a freelance consultant/trainer and financial advisor with special reference to ethical and Islamic Financial System, for almost 20 years, both in public and private sectors in addition to being a passionate trainer on management and motivation to change the lives of the youth. I have a strong belief that we can shape our Pakistani community into a very efficient and productive community just through the right mix of training and motivation, while preserving the natural ethics and…
IHHN through its’ public-private partnership initiatives, became a major testing center for samples collection IHHN helped set up 100-bed Quarantine Center in Dumba Goth; 120-bed COVID-19 Hospital in Gadap Town and 20-bed COVID-19 Unit in Badin IHHN’s Research Center opens Pakistan’s first country-specific, online, bilingual self-screening tool Interview with Dr. Abdul Bari Khan — Chief Executive Officer, Indus Health Network [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Hailing from a middle-class family, Dr. Abdul Bari Khan, graduated from Dow Medical College in 1986 and received a fellowship in Cardiac Surgery from The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan in 1995. While he…
With innovative approach Faran Sugar Mills doing every effort to secure labors during pandemic Interview with Mr Riaz Javed Suleri — Resident Director Faran Sugar Mills Limited PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your organization, please: Riaz Javed Suleri: While working for the last 39 years in the sugar industry in public as well as private sector at various management positions, my main emphasis has been innovative approach, Research and Development focusing on growers’ economics, efficient and up-to-date technological advancement. All these measures ultimately resulted in better project results. Substantial increase in per hector yield in the Faran Sugar Mills…
The Institute executes LMS, Hybrid Model plans to continue academic activities Govt taking best necessary steps to contain virus spread, but vaccination process needs to be expedited Interview with Mr. Talib Karim – President, Institute of Business Management (IoBM) PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and IoBM, please: Talib Karim: Since 2017, I have been serving as the President of IoBM. From the time of IoBM’s inception in 1995 until 2017, I served as the Executive Director and then the Rector. IoBM was the dream-come-true reality of our late Founder President, Shahjehan S. Karim. He envisioned establishing a business school to impart…
Interview with Professor Dr. Jan Alam PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Dr. Jan Alam: I am MD. Ph.D (Pharmacy & Technology of medicine). I am Vice President (Russian Federation Academy of Medical & Technical Sciences), Consultant (Cancer/Chronic Diseases), Moscow, Russia. I have been declared World’s Best Medical Scientist 2018 & 19 MD International University of Fundamental Studies, Moscow Russia (affiliated with Oxford and California Universities) and the certificates are also published in the report. I have done Ph.D in (Pharmacy & Technology of Medicine) International Higher Academic Council. I am Academician/Active Member of Russian Federation Academy of Medical and…
Interview with Dr. S. Khusro Iqbal — a seasoned professional PAGE: Tell our readers about yourself, please: Dr. S. Khusro Iqbal: Instead of responding verbally to your response I will refer to the my most recent photograph in which I am receiving the ‘Professional Pride of Performance Award’ from the Hon’ble President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, after a rigorous and diligent scrutiny of the panel constituted by the industry & business professionals for this purpose. Concluding, among the industry & community, I am referred as a dynamic human resources, labor and corporate law specialist with years…
Interview with Syeda Saima Zaidi – an analyst PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please: Syeda Saima Zaidi: I am a certified Business Engineer by Profession. I am a teacher of CSS and Business Administration. Economics is my core subject. I write articles and conduct weekly workshops with TV channels and newspapers. I am running an institute i.e. Gradsy Institute of Business and Technology in Business Administration. It is affiliated with Federal University Government of Pakistan and Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan. My institute is recognized by UK, Canadian and USA institutes. We have around 150 students. We charge modest…
Interview with Muhammad Farooq Afzal — President/CEO, ITN Group of Companies [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Muhammad Farooq Afzal is a dynamic and a profound professional in the realm of Textiles, Information Technology, Business Consultancy, Tourism, and Event Management. He is pursuing his entrepreneurial ambitions for last 21 years, locally and internationally. He has been playing an instrumental role in promoting trade and business ties between Pakistan and other countries since 2004. Farooq has been continuously putting in his multifaceted efforts towards the cause of promotion of bilateral and multilateral trade. He has also been participating in TV talk shows…
The debt-laden economy of Pakistan needs foreign inflows in order to address its economic woes. The global economic landscape seems better today vis-à-vis a year ago when the entire world was afflicted by the conundrums of the pandemic. Pakistan’s economic indicators at this juncture augur well down the road. There is no denying that Pakistan has been encountering the ordeal of balance of payment now and again. To address this glitch, Pakistan needs ample dollars. Some prudent decisions have been taken in Pakistan recently in the era when almost entire world went through an unprecedented economic downturn which came out…
Interview with Mr. Shaham Ahmad — Honorary Secretary, ICMA Pakistan Year 2021 will be a year of ‘economic recovery’ for Pakistan Govt must chalk out pragmatic strategy to deal with challenges with success PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please? Shaham Ahmad: I am a Fellow member of ICMA Pakistan and as a result of the recent elections I have been elected as a member of the current National Council of the Institute for the three-year term 2021 to 2023. The Council has nominated me as the ‘Honorary Secretary’ of the Institute in which capacity I am responsible to look after…
Interview with Mr Khalid Tawab – Chairman, Tawab Group [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Khalid Tawab is an economics, finance and international trade expert. He is a prominent businessman and former Minister of Commerce & Industry Government of Sindh and former Senior Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). He has also served as Vice President and Chairman of various Advisory Committees & Senior Vice President of Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI). The Government of Pakistan conferred the award of Sitara-i-Imtiaz on him in 2008 for his services. He has visited…
Cricket League, Football League etc. are quite widespread in almost every part of the globe these days. Resurgence of sports activities is an emblem of wholesome activities which must be encouraged at every nook and corner. Football, without any contention, is the most viewed sport across the world, however, cricket is fast catching up as a sport in the global arena. The nations once in different to cricket are either playing or are in the trend of creating their national cricket teams to compete at the international level. Cricket has undergone a metamorphosis from just Test matches of five days…
Pakistan Super League (PSL) is an annual attraction not only for the people residing in Pakistan but also for over 11 million Pakistani diaspora living abroad from Asia to Europe, from America to Australia etc. The 2021 edition of the tournament popularly known as PSL 6 is going to get underway from February 21, 2021 and would culminate on March 22, 2021 with ample fanfare. Pakistani diaspora is in fact more exuberant vis-à-vis the Pakistanis living in Pakistan when it comes to PSL. They, no matter what country they are in, gear up for almost all 34 matches and relish…
Lahore Qalandars, a star-studded squad, has been in the limelight for a plenty of reasons since the commencement of the PSL T20 extravaganza. Lahore Qalandars were unfortunate enough and could not progress beyond the preliminary stage in the first four editions, however, there was a paradigm shift in the fifth edition, which proved rather lucky for the team since it made to the final during the preceding year. It was anticipated that it was likely that Lahore Qalandars would rout Karachi Kings but all in vain. Lahore Qalandars gave scintillating performance in almost every match played during the preceding edition…
Interview with Muhammad Talha, an analyst PAGE: Kindly tell us something about yourself and your organization? Muhammad Talha: I am working with Arif Habib Group for last 12 years. Before joining the Arif Habib Group, I served in Al-Abbas Group, Ghulam Farooq Group and EY Ford Rhodes and gained experience in diversified sectors serving clients spanning the Financial, Manufacturing, Trading and Service industries. I have a working experience of more than 20 years in various diversified capacities including property operations. PAGE: What are your views on the current PSL? Muhammad Talha: First of all, it is a piece of overwhelming news that…
Since key policy rate is at 7 percent for the next two months with the hope that the discount rate would remain in single digits for at least a year or two to spur the economic growth, auto financing seems to capitalize on it. Banks are working at full throttle to lure customers for auto financing which is reminiscent of halcyon days of auto sector. In fact this is an opportunity for the auto sector to recoup the losses incurred in the first half of the preceding calendar year by virtue of lockdown and outbreak, which stifled the auto sector…
Mudasar, a young Pakistani adept at graphic designing, left for the UAE a couple of years ago and resided in Sharjah with his family having gotten assurances from his boss in the UAE that his job is stable and there is no need for any sort of perturbation. His confidence inflated in the wake of adulation received for his work acumen. To undergo a tantalizing foreign experience, he concurred to work in the UAE for a relatively trivial amount vis-à-vis the enormous salary he used to get in Pakistan. He was unable to save substantial amount since his salary was…
It is rather customary in numerous countries to avail personal loans to go on a vacation, visit some foreign countries etc which could be termed as a cultural phenomenon and also economic model of a particular country. On the contrary, Pakistan where millions of impoverished individuals go hungry every day, by and large, cannot adapt to that phenomenon as such. There are tempting offers by numerous banks in Pakistan to lure clients for personal loans. Following are some of the prime instances of marketing gimmicks: Now you can live your dreams with easy repayment options. We offer personal loans for…
Interview with Mr Ashfaq Yousuf Tola – President, Tola Associates [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Professional Accomplishments Memberships: Fellow Member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan Fellow Member of the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan Life Member of Karachi Press Club Life Member of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Member of Karachi Tax Bar Association Key Achievements: Presentation to IMF on Single Stage Sales Tax in December 2015. Visited Turkey as an official of Government of Pakistan to study Turkish Tax System & authored a report on Turkish Taxation System. Knowledge of more than 40…