News Archives for Latest - 2020-11-06

Pakistan

Shibli Faraz rejects reports of PTV privatisation

The minister said that government is in the process of hiring new board members to run the organisation.

Updated 07 Nov, 2020 01:59pm

USA

US sees surprise dip in unemployment rate to 6.9% in October

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said McConnell's call for a smaller bill "doesn't appeal to me at all, because they still have not agreed to crush the virus."

Updated 07 Nov, 2020 01:22am

Pakistan

PML-Q’s Chaudhary Shujaat hospitalized after chest infection

The veteran politician had undergone treatment in Germany last year. During his stay there, rumours stated circulating about his death, forcing his family to issue a rebuttal.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 11:38pm

Pakistan

PM Imran vows to transform Pakistan into welfare state

The Prime Minister said it was a decisive moment for the country to take to task its leaders who plundered billions of nation’s money, but insisted to be treated above law.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 11:37pm

Pakistan

KP CM terms Sehat Sahulat Program as pro-poor scheme

“Each and every individual of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa holding national identity card could get free medical treatment in the selected public and private hospitals,” he remarked.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:30pm

Pakistan

Bullion prices on Friday

Following were the bullion prices in Karachi on Friday.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:29pm

Pakistan

People reject PML-N, PPP; PTI to win GB election: Shibli

He said Maryam Safdar spoke in Gilgit Baltistan today and as usual her tone was defeatist and very uncivilised and she talked about turncoats and rigging in election.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:26pm

Exchange

New SBP policy on ECIB soon, says Dr Reza Baqir

The SBP Governor said the State Bank was focusing on Digital Financial Services (DFS) and was bringing a system where payments would be done in seconds.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:23pm

Pakistan

Govt striving hard to facilitate masses: Minister

She said this in a meeting with Station Commander Navy Lahore Commodore Naimatullah at the office of Primary and Secondary Healthcare department here.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:21pm

Pakistan

PM plants sapling at Gabeen Jabba

The prime minister remained there for some time and was highly impressed by its mesmerizing natural beauty.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:12pm

Pakistan

President advises continued adherence to anti-COVID SOPs to avert loss

The president called for promoting tele-health to provide urgent medical advice to the women particularly on the disease like depression which had some taboos allied with them.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:10pm

Pakistan

Nawaz Sharif architect of lotacracy: Shibli

The minister also recalled that the PML-N had a government in Gilgit Baltistan for five years and due to its poor performance it was bound to lose the upcoming elections.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:08pm

Pakistan

COVID-19 claims 3 lives, infects 579 in Sindh: CM Sindh orders strict implementation of SOPs

The chief minister said that the recovery rate in the province was encouraging but the new spike in the cases was worrisome and needed immediate drastic measures to contain the virus.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:05pm

Pakistan

PML-N distancing from Nawaz Sharif for using misleading statements against institutional heads: Firdous

Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said that Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI), government would continue its role for welfare of masses of Pakistan.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:01pm

Pakistan

NCOC issues new guidelines to curb second wave of COVID-19

The second stage NPIs is comprised implementation of GB model for enforcement of wearing mask which is Rs. 100 fine and three masks to be issued on spot.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:56pm

Pakistan

COAS thanks mountaineer Vanessa O'Brien for promoting Pakistan as a goodwill ambassador

Vanessa O'Brien met with the COAS here, said Inter Services Public Relations director general in a tweet.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:55pm

Pakistan

PM takes strict notice of top vacant posts in ministries, divisions: Shibli Faraz

He said the federal cabinet had decided in its last meeting to complete the process of appointments on these positions within 90 days.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:52pm

Pakistan

Face mask made compulsory for Karachiites, fine on violation amid COVID-19 resurge

“We have decided to strictly implement the COVID-19 SOPs,” says Commissioner Karachi.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 08:46pm

Stocks

S&P 500, Dow open flat as Biden edges closer to White House

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 8.95 points, or 0.03%, at the open to 28,399.13.
The Nasdaq Composite dropped 21.03 points, or 0.18%, to 11,869.90 at the opening bell.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:38pm

Forex

Canadian dollar stays on track for best week since June

Canadian dollar falls 0.2% against the greenback.
Canada adds 83,600 jobs in October.
Loonie gains 1.9% since the start of the week.
Canadian bond yields rise across a steeper curve.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:36pm

Stocks

TSX gains on job additions, strong earnings

The Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index was up 27.38 points, or 0.17%, at 16,325.55.
The largest percentage gainers on the TSX were pot producer Aurora Cannabis Inc, which jumped 41.1%, and Jamieson Wellness Inc.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:34pm

Industry

Google, Walmart hit by India's move to limit some digital payments players

The move will likely stymie the growth of payments services offered by Facebook, Alphabet's Google and Walmart.
More than 2.07 billion UPI transactions were processed in October, according to NPCI, with Walmart's PhonePe accounting for just over 40% of those transactions.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:32pm

Energy

US natgas futures down for fifth day on mild weather forecasts

Front-month gas futures fell 3 cents, or 1.0%, to $2.912 per million British thermal units.
The contract was down 13% after rising around 64% during the prior six weeks.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:31pm

Forex

Dollar slumps to two-month low, investors see more declines

The dollar index fell against a basket of six major currencies to 92.461, hitting its lowest level since Sept. 2.
The onshore yuan fell to 6.618 per dollar but still remained close to its more than two-year high reached on Thursday.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 08:31pm

Pakistan

Karachi, Hyderabad see rapid increase in COVID-19 cases: CM Sindh

Showing concern over rapid resurge in the COVID-19 cases especially in Karachi and Hyderabad, he underlined the need for following standard operating procedures (SOPs) designed to contain the pandemic spread.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 08:27pm

Financial

Italian 10-year government bond yield falls to record low as US election gridlock lingers

Italian five-year yields were still in negative territory, after falling below zero percent for the first time on Thursday.
The Italian 10-year BTP yield was down by 2.3 basis points at 0.610%, having fallen to 0.603% earlier,

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:02pm

Industry

Tesla launches $250 Tequila, runs out in hours

The Silicon Valley billionaire is no stranger to selling quirky products in limited one-time sales.
He sold flamethrowers at $500 a piece in early 2018, raising $10 million for his high-speed tunnel venture The Boring Company.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 08:00pm

Commodities

Gold gains on dollar slide as US election drags on

Spot gold rose 0.2% to $1,953.21 per ounce by 1213 GMT. Prices jumped by 2.4% on Thursday, setting them up for a 3.9% weekly gain.
US gold futures rose 0.4% to $1,954.20.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:57pm

Energy

Oil falls as virus cases rise, US vote count continues

Biden gains ground on Trump in Georgia and Pennsylvania.
Coronavirus cases hit record in Italy, surge in US.
Brent heading for 6% gain this week.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:55pm

Exchange

Brazil inflation rises to highest for any October since 2002

Central bank officials say the spike is "temporary" and that long-term inflation expectations and baseline forecasts remain "well-anchored".
Prices rose 3.92% in the 12 months through October, the highest since February and also in line with the median forecast of 3.90% in the Reuters poll.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:54pm

Industry

Lufthansa to start rapid pre-flight coronavirus tests in Germany

Only those testing negative or able to provide evidence of a negative test within the previous 48 hours will be allowed to board.
The carrier will use the tests for two daily flights between Munich and Hamburg from Nov. 12 onwards to see how the test procedure can be included in the pre-flight routine.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:52pm

Stocks

Stocks mixed as balance tilts to Biden in US election

European stocks lower on profit taking, virus angst.
US futures point to lower Wall Street opening.
Japan's Nikkei hits 29-year high.
US bond yields steady, dollar under pressure.
Oil suffers from COVID-19 worries.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:49pm

Europe

Despite Trump-Erdogan ties, Turkey says it will work with whoever wins US vote

Regardless of which candidate takes office in the US, we will pursue a sincere approach to improve our relations

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:45pm

Europe

France sees smoother trade ties with US if Biden triumphs

President Donald Trump has imposed tariffs on French wines in a row over Airbus subsidies, threatened levies on Champagne and luxury handbags in a digital tax dispute.
Biden took a razor-thin lead over President Donald Trump in the battleground state of Georgia early on Friday.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:45pm

Commodities

Indians scale back purchases as prices rally before Diwali

Indian market flips to discount again.
China's discounts fall to $20-$26/oz.
Yuan soars to 28-month high.
Singapore premiums steady at $0.80-$1.40/oz.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:40pm

Sports

Federer targeting 'big' Australian Open, says Ljubicic

He is in the recovery phase and I would say that things are going in the best way.
"He trains more and more and better and better, I'm curious to see how much we will be able to push in the coming months.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:34pm

USA

US job growth slows in October; unemployment rate falls to 6.9pc

The unemployment rate fell to 6.9% from 7.9% in September. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast payrolls advancing by 600,000 jobs in October and the jobless rate dipping to 7.7%.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:32pm

Forex

Rouble slips after biggest one-day gain in four years

The rouble was likely to benefit from the division of power in Washington.
The dollar was too oversold ... there is some adjustment in market positions going on now.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:30pm

Energy

Italy's Snam takes first steps into India with hydrogen, gas deals

Europe's biggest gas transport group said it had agreed to set up a partnership with India's Adani to develop a hydrogen business in India and abroad and use biogas for low-carbon transport projects.
The group also reached an agreement with state-owned Indian Oil to work on energy transition projects.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:28pm

Pakistan

KPK govt decides to impose smart lockdown in Peshawar from Saturday

The notification made it clear that the lockdown will be effective from November 7, 04:00 pm till further orders by the competent authority.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 07:29pm

Money & Banking

BoE's Broadbent eyes effect of negative rates on banks

In such a scenario, there could be a risk that banks would cut lending to make up for costs and lower margins due to negative interest rates,
The BoE is conducting a review into negative interest rates to see how they might work in Britain.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:25pm

Commodities

Codelco settles 2021 copper supply deal with major China buyer at $88 premium

The premium, which Codelco kept steady on the 2020 level in its recent offer to state-run Chinese clients.
The sources asked not to be named as the information was not public and also declined to identify the buyer.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:23pm

Commodities

Copper pushes towards two-year highs as dollar falls further

Benchmark three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange (LME) was up 1.4% at $6,946.50 a tonne in official trading.
"The copper market looks rather strong from a fundamental point of view," said Julius Baer analyst Carsten Menke.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:22pm

Industry

Coty posts surprise profit as beauty products regain shine

To grab a share of the e-commerce boom, Coty has been ramping up investments in its digital platform.
Coty said it reduced fixed costs by about $80 million in the quarter as part of its efforts to save more than $200 million annually, partly by simplifying its organizational structure.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:19pm

Europe

UK jobs shield is not stopping COVID adjustment in labour market

It's not that the furlough scheme is stopping the kind of adjustments that we're going to have to see in the labour market over a number of years in response to this crisis.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:16pm

Forex

Latam FX, stocks lose steam after rally but set for weekly gains

Latam stocks set for best week in five months.
Brazilian real outperforms Latam peers for the week.
Oil-linked currencies make hefty gains during the week.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:15pm

World

Biden moves ahead in Georgia and Pennsylvania, moving closer to White House

Biden has a 253 to 214 lead in the state-by-state Electoral College vote that determines the winner.
In Pennsylvania, Biden moved ahead of Trump by 5,500 votes on Friday morning, while in Georgia, he had opened up a 1,097-vote lead.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:12pm

Commodities

Soybeans, corn steady-up 2 cents; wheat up 3-5 cents

CBOT December soft red winter wheat found support overnight at its five-day moving average. Resistance noted at its 20-day moving average.
CBOT December corn was last 1/4 cent higher at $4.09-1/2 per bushel.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 07:12pm

Stocks

Indian shares close at over 9-month high on Reliance boost

The NSE Nifty 50 index finished 1.18% higher at 12,263.55 and the S&P BSE Sensex ended up 1.34% at 41,893.
Reliance shares jumped 3.8% on Friday after the company secured a $1.3-billion investment in its retail business from Saudi Arabia's wealth fund.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 06:10pm

Companies

Novo Nordisk to boost pill-form diabetic drugs with $1.8bn deal

The world's biggest producer of diabetes drugs aims to offer more of its current and future drugs in a tablet form.
We have been making injection drugs for a hundred years, but we just have to admit that if we want patients to get treatment quickly in order to optimise the long-term course of the illness

Published 06 Nov, 2020 06:06pm

Commodities

Japan futures surge on hope for strong China demand, but book weekly loss

Osaka Exchange's (OSE) rubber contract for April delivery finished up 6.0 yen, or 2.8%, at 222.3 yen ($2.15) per kg. Still.
Rubber prices have rocketed last month to their highest in over three years as protective glove demand surges due to the COVID-19 crisis and industrial use rebounds in China.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 06:03pm

World

Democrats blame gerrymandering, campaign strategy for failure to flip state legislatures

There needs to be a reckoning for Democrats, because we are losing these down-ballot races.
Biden lost to Trump in Texas, and the legislature stayed firmly in Republican hands despite years of demographic change benefitting Democrats.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:52pm

Currency

Fitch sees growing risk as Turkish lira hits new low

Double-digit inflation and depleted FX reserves "would significantly increase the chances" of a formal interest rate hike by year end.
The lira slid as much as 1.7% to a record low of 8.56 versus the dollar, despite the greenback's weakness as votes were still being counted in Tuesday's tight US election.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:50pm

Commodities

Palm retreats from 8-year high but logs 5pc weekly rise

Palm oil rises 5.6% for the week.
Indonesia new levy structure to set next price direction
Palm prices $10 below CBOT soyoil prices.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:48pm

World

Trump and Biden protesters duel outside vote-counting centers in cliffhanger election

The demonstrations were largely peaceful, although Trump supporters occasionally shouted with counterprotesters.
Facebook removed a fast-growing group in which Trump supporters posted violent rhetoric.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:46pm

World

Aspirin to be tested as potential COVID-19 drug in UK study

There is a clear rationale for believing that it (aspirin) might be beneficial, and it is safe, inexpensive and widely available.
At least 2,000 patients are expected to randomly get 150 mg of aspirin daily along with the usual regimen.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:40pm

World

UN says needs $655mn to avert new measles and polio epidemics

"We cannot allow the fight against one deadly disease to cause us to lose ground in the fight against other diseases,"
Fore said the $655 million needed included $400 million for polio and $255 million for measles.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:38pm

South Asia

India's top general says face-off with China could spark bigger conflict

Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat said the situation was tense at the Line of Actual Control, the de facto border, in eastern Ladakh.
In the overall security calculus, border confrontations, transgressions and unprovoked tactical military actions spiralling into a larger conflict cannot therefore be discounted.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:36pm

Sports

Alves shares Messi concerns with Barca but urges him to stay

Alves said he shared Messi's concern over how Barca was being run under former president Josep Maria Bartomeu and said the club should have showed more respect to their all-time top scorer,
Messi is as great as the badge of Barcelona. But as he could see that everything around him was a disaster, it's understandable that he wanted to leave.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:34pm

Financial

US bond yields steady, focus fixed on election news, jobs data

Election uncertainty and a growing expectation that the scope for hefty stimulus will be limited has pushed down US Treasury yields sharply this week.
Thirty-year Treasury yields were also steady at around 1.54% and also holding above the previous day's lows.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:32pm

Industry

Singapore Airlines sinks to record quarterly loss on pandemic, impairments

Q2 net loss S$2.34bn vs S$94.5mn profit year ago.
Revenue falls 81% to S$783.8mn.
Airline blames pandemic impact, fleet impairment charges.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:31pm

Industry

SAA's $665mn bailout does not cover aircraft lessors, other creditors

SAA operations mothballed since late September.
Given $665 mln bailout in mid-term budget.
That doesn't cover lessors, other creditors.
More money may be needed from state budget.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:29pm

Industry

French new car orders slumping by up to 90pc since new lockdown

Aid measures set up to help people buy new cars, especially more environment-friendly ones, will be extended for a further six months, to July 1st.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:28pm

Europe

Deal or no deal, Northern Ireland faces Brexit trade disruption

There is a risk that widespread disruption could ensue at a time when government and businesses continue to deal with the effects of COVID-19.
One of the most challenging areas will be Northern Ireland which will require some goods arriving from the rest of the UK to be checked in order to protect trade with EU member, Ireland.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:25pm

Technology

Best-selling mobile phones in Pakistan 2020

The selection of a new smartphone is always a wise move, but it's a tough choice for purchasing the right one and...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:16pm

Forex

Dollar slumps to 2-month low, investors see more declines

Dollar falls broadly, equities rally.
Currencies price in low chance of big US stimulus.
Australian dollar falls after RBA statement.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:23pm

Stocks

Sri Lankan shares end at 10-month high on industrials, financials boost

The benchmark stock index ended up 1.27% at 6,080.09, its highest closing mark since Jan. 3. The index added 6.2% for the week.
Shares in Conglomerate Hayleys Plc and Royal Ceramics Lanka gained 16% and 25%, respectively.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:20pm

Commodities

Raw sugar prices ease, coffee and cocoa climb

December arabica coffee rose by 1.10 cents, or 1%, to $1.0705 per lb.
March New York cocoa was up $13, or 0.6%, at $2,331 a tonne.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 05:17pm

Europe

English COVID infections stabilise at 50,000 per day

An estimated 618,700 people had the disease during the most recent week to Oct 31, up from 568,100 the previous week.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 05:17pm

Money & Banking

SBP approves over Rs237bn loans under Rozgar Scheme

Under relief provided to the borrowers, SBP has also allowed around Rs199.9bn for restructuring/ rescheduling.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 04:04pm

Pakistan

GB Election: Court orders PTI ministers to leave the region within three days

A two-member bench of Justice Malik Haq Nawaz and Justice Ali Baig announced the verdict hearing a petition filed over violation of the code of conduct.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 04:00pm

Pakistan

I was 'shocked' says Bilawal about Nawaz Sharif’s address at PDM’s Gujranwala rally

He said he 'cannot control what Nawaz says'.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 03:50pm

Technology

Super Mario, Pokemon creator profits soar amid COVID pandemic

Lockdowns were imposed around the world to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which lead people to remain at home and resort to video games to quell their boredom.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 02:55pm

Pakistan

216 teachers, students test positive for COVID-19 in Karachi

The team had taken samples of 9,158 students and teachers of various government schools. About 216 came back positive, confirmed the district health office.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 02:39pm

Business & Finance

Denmark envoy to Pakistan proposes to set up joint energy platform

The platform would allow Danish companies to closely follow developments in the field of renewable energy and they could participate in the competitive process of renewable energy projects in Pakistan.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 02:30pm

Exchange

Police court martial?-II

As for the lack of disciple, it is ironical, indeed, that of all people former CCPO Sheikh should be complaining...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 02:16pm

Pakistan

Hasan Abdal Railway Station to provide better facilities to all passengers, including Sikhs, says PM

He said he wants all citizens regardless of their religions, to have equal rights to practice their faith easily.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 02:12pm

Currency

Phoenix Rising: Appreciation of the Pakistani Rupee

Not really a rise of the phoenix moment, yet the appreciation of the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar is an...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 02:00pm

Cotton

Tracing the roots of cotton imports

Cotton imports spiked 2,249 percent year-on-year in September and 456 percent year-on-year for the first quarter of...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 01:55pm

Pakistan

Jahangir Tareen returns to Pakistan after seven months

Jahangir said that he went abroad for medical treatment.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 01:27pm

World

AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine to begin clinical trials in China - executive

AstraZeneca Plc plans to start early and mid-stage clinical trials of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate in China this year.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 01:27pm

Pakistan

Islamabad City App generates more than Rs 200 Million revenue since March

The app offers a wide range of public services like getting domiciles, and birth and death certificates, City guide, Utility Bills, and other valuable services.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 01:08pm

Pakistan

Pakistan, Indian cities among the most polluted: WHO

Bahawalpur, Faislabad, Karachi, Multan and Lahore are among the most polluted cities globally.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 12:37pm

USA

President Trump enjoys massive support from counties worst hit by COVID-19

President Trump continues to enjoy enormous support in the counties where the virus had the worse impact.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 12:51pm

Business & Finance

KSA allows all airlines to bring Umrah and visit visa passengers

The Saudi General Authority for Civil Aviation has issued formal orders for permission to all airlines.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 12:38pm

Life & Style

Britain's most fashionable man? Vogue thinks it's Prince Charles

The 71-year-old, who has long campaigned on environmental issues, is well-known for patching and mending his clothes.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 12:31pm

Life & Style

Aamir Liaquat and wife Tuba test positive for coronavirus

The couple is the latest in a string of high profile cases reported recently.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 12:31pm

Kerb

Facebook's WhatsApp starts payments service in India

WhatsApp, which counts India as its biggest market with more than 400 million users, had been running a peer-to-peer payments service with limited users for over two years, awaiting regulatory approvals.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 12:01pm

Technology

WhatsApp lauches disappearing messages feature

Note that Facebook has introduced a similar feature before, while Snapchat was the first to provide this option to users.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:55am

Business & Finance

Pakistan Customs launch its first trade facilitation program

The program is expected to facilitate traders and improve ease of doing business.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 11:42am

Companies

Zarea.pk digitalises the $30 billion Housing Construction Industry in Pakistan

We spoke with Ali Alam Qamar, the young entrepreneur and investor who wants to digitally transform the Pakistani Housing Construction Industry with his new venture Zarea.pk.

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 11:34am

Business & Finance

End of ‘kafala system’ to benefit Pakistani workers in KSA

The ministry aims to certify the contracts of all foreign workers by the end of the first quarter of 2021.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:49am

Technology

'Spreading like wildfire': Facebook fights hate speech before Myanmar poll

Within a torrent of racist abuse and misinformation posted about him ahead of the polls are false claims he plans to close Buddhist monastic schools and to advocate for the teaching of Arabic.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:17am

Currency

Asian shares at near three-year peak; dollar, U.S. yields head south

Investors expect Democrat Joe Biden to beat President Donald Trump and the Republicans to retain control of the Senate, allowing them to block the Democrats’ agenda, such as corporate tax hikes and massive borrowing for large spending.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:12am

Companies

Toyota profit forecast more than doubles amid China pandemic rebound

Japan’s top automaker said it now expects an operating profit of 1.3 trillion yen ($12.6 billion) for the year through March, 2021, up from the 500 billion it predicted previously.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:09am

Exchange

Alibaba beats sales forecasts on China e-commerce growth

China’s surprise suspension of Ant Group’s planned $37 billion Shanghai initial public offering (IPO) was seen by some analysts and investors as an attempt by Beijing to cut founder Jack Ma and his financial services empire down to size.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 10:06am

BR Research

Oil prices likely to remain low

Oil once again flirted with $40/bbl but lost steam soon after, reaffirming the strong resistance that the commodity...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:41am

BR Research

Cement: Battle of the zones

The dynamics operating across the north and south zone within the cement industry couldn’t be more divergent, ...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:40am

Exchange

Cotton: fall from grace?

While Pakistanis continue to find their national honour insulted by (slated) import of sugar and wheat of $500...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:40am

BR Research

FO leading the pack again

The Oil Companies Advisory Council has recently released petroleum product sales for October 2020, and it can be ...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:38am

BR Research

Interview with Saquib Ahmad, Managing Director, SAP Pakistan

“Software can help SMEs adopt best business practices” Saquib Ahmad joined SAP in 2017 and is currently the...

Published 06 Nov, 2020 07:25am

Stocks

US stocks extend post-election rally, Dow +2.0%

The broad-based S&P 500 also gained 2.0 percent to 3,510.45, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index jumped 2.6 percent to 11,890.93.

Published 06 Nov, 2020 03:18am

Business & Finance

To finalise FTA with Pakistan: Thai envoy for holding virtual negotiations

KARACHI: Consul General (CG) of Thailand Thatree Chauvachata has stressed that the 10th round of negotiations to be...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:32am

Pakistan

Making counterfeit cigarettes: FIA registers case against fraudsters

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has registered a criminal case against fraudsters involved in...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:31am

Pakistan

Reko Diq reference: NAB arrests two accused

ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has claimed to have arrested two accused in Reko Diq reference ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:31am

Pakistan

PTI government serious in promoting tourism, says Bukhari

LAHORE: Syed Zulfiqar (Zulfi) Bukhari, Special Assistant to Prime Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Tourism has...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:31am

Pakistan

Arzoo Raja case: SHC orders formation of medical board to find age

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Thursday ordered to constitute a medical board to determine the age of Arzoo...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:31am

Pakistan

Call for rapid fire fighting system to stem losses

LAHORE: Sheikhupura Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Adil Mehmood called for a rapid fire fighting...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:31am

Pakistan

Deputy Commissioner Okara removed

LAHORE: Deputy Commissioner Okara has been removed from his post and a notification has also been issued while ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:30am

Pakistan

Alvi confers Nishan-e-Pakistan on Bosnian presidency chairman

ISLAMABAD: The government has presented the country's highest civil award - Nishan-e-Pakistan - to the Presidency of...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

SHC orders removal of Jakhrani's name from ECL

KARACHI: Sindh High Court (SHC) on Thursday ordered removal of the name of Ijaz Jakhrani, Advisor to Sindh Chief...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

Sherry demands level-playing field for women in G-B elections

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Parliamentary Leader in the Senate, Senator Sherry Rehman has demanded a...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

Farmer's death by Punjab police exposes fascist face of government: PPP

LAHORE: Secretary General Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Punjab Ch Manzoor Ahmed said Thursday death of a farmer ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

17 more patients of coronavirus die: Murad

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has said that 17 more patients of coronavirus died lifting the...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

WB Country Director reviews Sindh projects

KARACHI: The World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine Thursday met the Local Government Minister Syed Nasir...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

Punjab yet to finalise LG election date

ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government is yet to provide a date to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for holding...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

Farmers end sit-in after talks with government

LAHORE: After successful talks with the Punjab government, the Pakistan Kisaan Ittehad announced to end sit-ins....

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

The Weather

KARACHI: The weather report on Thursday (November 5, 2020) and the forecast for Friday (November 6, 2020)....

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:29am

Pakistan

JI Karachi discusses city's poor civic, transportation issues with Sindh CM

KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi on Wednesday discussed the city's issues on poor civic and transportation with ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:27am

Pakistan

SU holds seminar on 'Pak-Japan Trade: Channel of Social Connectivity'

KARACHI: An international seminar titled "Pak-Japan Trade: Channel of Social Connectivity" was held on Wednesday at...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:26am

USA

NY Times sees gains as subscriber base tops 7 million

NEW YORK: The New York Times said Thursday profits rose in the past quarter, lifted by gains in paying digital...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:25am

World

WHO warns of 'explosion' of virus cases in Europe

COPENHAGEN: The World Health Organization (WHO) in Europe on Thursday said it was seeing an "explosion" of...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:25am

World

EU calls for halt to Israeli demolition of Palestinian buildings

BRUSSELS: The EU on Thursday called on Israel to cease demolishing Palestinian homes in the occupied West Bank and...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:25am

Pakistan

Seven out of eight Indian prisoners released, IHC told

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Interior Thursday apprised the Islamabad High Court (IHC) that seven out of eight Indian...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:23am

Exchange

Fake bank accounts case hearing put off till 10th

ISLAMABAD: The Accountability Court hearing multi-billion rupees fake bank accounts case could not complete ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Stocks

European stocks climb

MILAN/FRANKFURT: European stocks hit a more than two-week high on Thursday, as strong quarterly earnings, fresh...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks up

TOKYO: Tokyo stocks closed higher Thursday, as a result in US presidential election appeared imminent. The benchmark...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Pakistan

Steady rise in Covid-19 cases witnessed countrywide

ISLAMABAD: After a steady rise in the last week, over 1,000 Covid-19 cases were reported daily in Pakistan during ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Stocks

Qatar leads most Gulf markets higher

• Aramex gains on higher revenue • Egypt's cabinet approves sukuk law DUBAI: Most stock markets in the Gulf...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Energy

US natural gas futures little changed on mild weather

NEW YORK: US natural gas futures were little changed on Wednesday as record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Energy

Oil falls as European lockdowns, US election uncertainty dominate

NEW YORK: Oil prices dropped on Thursday, weighed down by the steady rise in coronavirus infections and as the...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Commodities

Palm oil jumps 3 percent to 8-year high

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian palm oil futures climbed more than 3% to an eight-year high on Thursday, extending gains to ...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Commodities

Copper prices climb

LONDON: Copper prices edged higher on Thursday as the dollar slid and investors looked forward to more central bank...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:22am

Industry

South Punjab: Industrialization will help create more job opportunities: CM

LAHORE: Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar said on Thursday that industrialization process will help create more job...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Money & Banking

Sterling weakens against euro

LONDON: Sterling fell against the euro on Thursday after the Bank of England increased its already huge bond-buying...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Currency

Aussie, kiwi down

SYDNEY: The Australian and New Zealand dollars were shackled by heightened uncertainty over the outcome of a...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Exchange

SBP's reserves move up by $384 million in 3 weeks

KARACHI: Foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) are gradually increasing. The reserves...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Business & Finance

Qureshi for speeding up completion of CPEC projects in Gwadar

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has stressed the need for speeding up completion of the...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Currency

EU warns no return to pre-crisis economy before 2023

BRUSSELS: A second wave of the coronavirus pandemic has stalled a nascent recovery in Europe, the EU said on...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Exchange

Dzaferovic meets NA speaker: 'CPEC provides opportunity to become logistic, economic hub'

ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser Thursday said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has...

Updated 06 Nov, 2020 03:20am

Business & Finance

SEZs to attract investment from China, rest of the world: Alvi

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi said that Special Economic Zones (SEZs) were being established in Pakistan to...