Daraz Pakistan, the country’s leading e-commerce platform, is introducing a new feature called COD Plus, which will allow customers to switch their payment method at the time of delivery. With COD Plus, customers who initially selected Cash on Delivery will have the option to change their payment method to a …
Read More »Temu’s ‘Bargain’ Just a Bubble?
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: A wave of consumer disappointment is sweeping through Pakistan as Temu, the popular e-commerce platform known for its ultra-low prices, has drastically increased its prices. The price hikes, with some items jumping over 300%, have stripped away the platform’s main appeal, exposing a business model that thrived …
Read More »Pakistan’s trade deficit widens amidst global headwinds
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: While a recent government report heralds a period of remarkable economic recovery for Pakistan, a closer look at the data reveals some underlying challenges that could temper the celebratory mood. The July 2025 “Economic Update” from the Finance Division, while celebrating a historic current account surplus and …
Read More »Lobbying begins for interim HEC Chairman
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: The tenure of the current Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, will conclude on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, marking the end of his controversial one-year extension. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed has previously completed two full terms as Chairman of the HEC. Last year, he …
Read More »Conscience for sale, faith betrayed: Pakistan’s halal system undone by a butchered truth
Mahtab Bashir A Page of my DiaryWhat was once a cruel joke aimed at mocking the people of Lahore has now morphed into a grim reality across multiple cities in Pakistan – the sale and consumption of dog and donkey meat. No longer just a punchline, this disturbing trade thrives …
Read More »ECC approves key initiatives to boost economy and environment
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Friday approved a series of major initiatives across several key sectors, including industry, housing, telecommunications, and the environment. The decisions aim to drive economic growth, promote sustainability, and …
Read More »JLL steps down from Roosevelt hotel advisory role
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), the global real estate services firm, has resigned from its role as Financial Advisor for the privatization of the iconic Roosevelt Hotel in New York. The decision, formally conveyed to the Privatisation Commission of Pakistan, stems from a potential conflict of interest, as …
Read More »Sugar owners’ details sought next week
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has asked the FBR to submit details about the owners of sugar mills. The committee also asked who allowed the export of sugar, which mills exported how much, and to which countries. All this information must be provided by next week. A …
Read More »Plans to tackle gas sector circular debt under consideration
“Protected” category for electricity consumers is expected to be phased out Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: After taking steps to address the circular debt in the power sector, the federal government is now working on a plan to eliminate the massive circular debt in the gas sector. The aim is to remove …
Read More »NBP’S double-edged sword: Growth amidst governance gaps and lending lag
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: Despite a year marked by significant financial resilience and growth in its Islamic banking arm, the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) is facing increasing scrutiny over its strategic direction, particularly its reduced focus on private sector credit and persistent governance shortcomings. While the bank’s 2024 business plan …
Read More »
BeNewz