News Archives for Latest - 2020-12-14

Pakistan

Majority of senators retiring next year belong to opposition parties

PML-N seems to be losing the ground in terms of representation in the Senate as 17 out of its 30 members are set to retire in 2021
Eight senators from PPP and seven belonging to PTI are also retiring from Senate seats
Raja Zafarul Haq, Mushahidullah Khan, Shibli Faraz, Pervaiz Rasheed, Sherry Rehman and Rehman Malik are amongst those set to retire

Updated 29 Dec, 2020 11:50am

Pakistan

Maulana's dream of power not to come true: Gandapur

PDM public meetings were exposing opposition before the nation that how they were maligning state institutions for their vested interests, said Gandapur.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:58pm

Pakistan

KP CM condoles demise of doctors due to coronavirus

He lauded services of the doctors and health workers who were working on the frontline to save the lives of other patients during the pandemic.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:57pm

Pakistan

COVID-19 claims 6 more lives, infects 1,260 in Sindh

The chief minister said currently 25,589 patients were under treatment, including 24,572 in home isolation, 16 at isolation centers and 1,001 in hospitals.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:57pm

Pakistan

World Bank doubles its assistance for Ehsaas Programme, PM told

The World Bank’s Country Director describing the Ehsaas Programme as “a flagship programme of social safety” said it was a model for other countries to follow as well.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:56pm

Pakistan

Shibli, Japanese envoy discuss PTV’s upgradation, digitization

Shibli Faraz on the occasion asked the technical teams of two sides to provide a timeframe for ensuring timely completion of the initiative.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:56pm

Pakistan

President calls for effective measures to address special needs of PWDs

The president expressed these views while chairing a meeting about registration of PWDs, here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:55pm

Pakistan

Govt ready to hold dialogue with opposition except on corruption cases, NRO: Sheikh Rashid

Imran Khan has categorically said that he would quit the government but would not give NRO to the corrupt mafia who had plundered the national wealth, he said.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:55pm

Pakistan

PDM’s circus failed again in Lahore: Haleem Adil Shaikh

Haleem Adil claimed that the circus was not even equal to 25 percent of a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s public meeting.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:54pm

Pakistan

SC directs NAB to submit details of 29 fake bank accounts case in two weeks

During the course of proceedings, the counsel for the accused said that no action was taken against the main accused.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:53pm

Pakistan

Govt permits private sector to import COVID-19 vaccine

The purchase of coronavirus vaccine will open possibility for people who could afford and buy it
Govt has also increased the budget for vaccine purchase from $150 million to $250 million

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:52pm

Pakistan

Sheikh Rashid criticises PDM's confrontational politics; asks 'Who do you want to speak to if not PM Imran?'

“We are an elected democratic government and, under the leadership of Imran * Khan, we will take this country forward,” says Interior Minister.
“We don't want to close the doors for dialogue," Sheikh Rashid.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:51pm

Pakistan

Last solar eclipse of 2020 to be observed today: PMD

The solar eclipse will not be visible in Pakistan and the South Asian region.
The eclipse will start at 6:34 pm Pakistan Standard Time (PST) and end at 11:53 pm.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:49pm

Pakistan

Opposition working without strategy to achieve vested interests: Sheikh Rashid

He disclosed the PDM Lahore public meeting a flop show and futile exercise as only few students of seminaries had attended it.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:29pm

Pakistan

44 more patients test positive for COVID-19 in Hyderabad

The district administration has extended smart lockdown for ten more days in 12 hotspot areas of Hyderabad district from December 7-16 and all notified areas were sealed.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:24pm

Pakistan

PDM leaders explore ways to save sinking politics, deceive public: Shibli

During the meeting, he said, the parties in the opposition alliance passed the buck to one another for their flop show in Lahore.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:23pm

Pakistan

Hafeez asks provinces to monitor chicken prices, ensure its smooth supply

The minister lauded the efforts of the ministries, department concerned and provincial governments for keeping the prices of essential commodities in check.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:20pm

Pakistan

PDM failed to gather support due to anti-Pakistan agenda: Ch Fawad

The federal minister said the major reason behind the failure of PDM meeting in Lahore was Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and Nawaz Sharif's narrative against the army.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 09:22pm

Pakistan

COAS assures Pakistan's continued support for regional peace, stability

The visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's untiring efforts for facilitating the process towards the mutual objective of peace in the region.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:09pm

Pakistan

PDM gives Govt Jan 31 ultimatum to resign; to announce long march’s final date on Feb 1 if it stays

The 11-party alliance's lawmakers would hand in their resignations from the provincial and national assemblies on December 31, says Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
The development comes a day after opposition’s 11-party alliance held rally in Lahore.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 09:17pm

Pakistan

PM allocates Portfolio of Revenue to Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Sheikh

After the allocation of the Portfolio of Revenue in addition to Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh will now be Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:04pm

Pakistan

Development, rehabilitation of Peshawar city top priority of Govt: CM

The CM talking to MNA from Peshawar city Shukat Ali here at CM Secretariat said that under citizen empowerment project the water supply lines were being changed.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:01pm

Pakistan

Media’s role vital in disseminating true information on COVID-19: Dr. Faisal

He particularly reinforced the need for careful timely reporting with the additional challenge of fact checking for the media to pursue.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:56pm

Business & Finance

Russian central bank expected to leave unchanged on Friday

Twenty-nine of the 31 analysts and economists polled said the central bank would leave its key rate at 4.25pc, keeping the cost of lending at a record low since July.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:49pm

South Asia

China plans set up of new disease control agency in COVID-19 aftermath

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year and spread globally, reaching 220 countries and territories.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:47pm

Europe

Netherlands set for toughest lockdown yet over Christmas

This would make the lockdown stricter than the one imposed during the first COVID-19 wave between March and May, when schools were closed but shops could open.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:43pm

Business & Finance

Reddit to buy TikTok rival Dubsmash

The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but a spokeswoman for Reddit said the acquisition was based on a combination of cash and stock.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:39pm

Managed Funds

Hungary plans to issue 30-year forint green bond from Q2 2021

Hungary will not hold 3-year government bond auctions next year but will boost its switch bond auctions.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:28pm

USA

U.S. Congress in sprint to fund government, approve COVID-19 emergency aid

The U.S. Congress will try this week to end months of indecision and infighting over the federal government’s budget priorities and coronavirus aid, with more than $2 trillion in funding from Washington potentially at stake.
Without a deal, the government must begin shutting non-emergency programs and furloughing many workers.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:34pm

USA

Toronto hospital to begin COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday

Vaccines have arrived at the Toronto's University Health Network hospital and a "small number" will receive the shots, he added.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:26pm

World

Biotech, pharma investments on VC radar in 2021 – PitchBook

VC investment in the biopharma space is likely to surpass $20 billion in 2021, driven by the need to fund trials and build out research and development programs, as clinical trials resume and elective procedures restart.
A total of 162 SPACs listed so far this year have raised $55 billion, an increase of 501.8% on capital raised and 295.1% in count from 2019.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:22pm

USA

Mexico says Pfizer vaccine doses could arrive in 5-8 days

"The request is being made today, and according to our contract, we could have it here in a period of something like five to eight days,"

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:21pm

Europe

Germany's stricter lockdown increases recession risks

The economy rebounded by a stronger-than-expected 8.5pc in the third quarter, driven by higher consumer spending and booming exports.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:17pm

Europe

London to move into toughest tier of COVID-19 restrictions – report

More than 40% of citizens were placed in the highest risk category.
“Moving into Tier 3 before Christmas will be deeply disappointing for Londoners, and a terrible blow to the capital’s hospitality, leisure and cultural sectors,” said John Dickie, Director of Strategy and Policy at business campaign group London First.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:12pm

Energy

U.S. natgas futures rise on colder weather view, soaring LNG exports

Data provider Refinitiv said output in the Lower 48 U.S. states averaged 90.8 billion cubic feet per day so far in December.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:13pm

Energy

OPEC cuts 2021 oil demand outlook again as pandemic impact lingers

OPEC said its output rose by 710,000 bpd to 25.11 million bpd in November, driven by a rebound in Libya, an OPEC member exempted from making cuts.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:10pm

Commodities

Gold eases on U.S. vaccine fillip for economic outlook

Spot gold was 0.1pc lower at $1,836.80 per ounce by 9:34 a.m. EST (1434 GMT), having earlier fallen as much as 1pc to $1,819.35.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:07pm

Forex

C$ firms as risk appetite rises on vaccine, Brexit optimism

In the bond market, Canadian government bonds were higher across the board in line with U.S. Treasuries.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:55pm

Stocks

TSX opens higher as energy stocks gain on vaccine cheer

At 9:30 a.m. ET (1430 GMT), the Toronto Stock Exchange’s S&P/TSX composite index was up 65.3 points, or 0.37pc, at 17,614.22.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:53pm

Stocks

Wall St opens higher as travel stocks rally on vaccine roll-out

The S&P 500 opened higher by 11.81 points, or 0.32pc, at 3,675.27, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 69.57 points, or 0.56pc, to 12,447.44 at the opening bell.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:47pm

Pakistan

Punjab to pass bill for doctors' safety: Raja Basharat

He was distributing prizes and certificates among the medical college graduates as the chief guest at the 7th convocation of the University of Faisalabad on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:45pm

Pakistan

CM prays for recovery of Maulana Tariq Jamil

The chief minister in a tweet said, "My prayers for a complete and speedy recovery for #MaulanaTariqJamil from COVID-19."

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:43pm

Pakistan

Fable of 'Sharif Raj' buried in Lahore: Shahbaz Gill

He said that one should read the history and know that father of Mahmood Khan Achakzai was in the Indian National Congress and was against Pakistan movement.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:36pm

World

AstraZeneca UK vaccine trial drops sub-group with children: U.S. trial register

AstraZeneca, which is developing the vaccine along with the University of Oxford, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:33pm

Pakistan

Indian diplomat summoned to protest ceasefire violations

Due to indiscriminate and unprovoked firing by the Indian occupation forces in Chirikot Sector of the LoC, 19 year old Nasreen Akhtar, resident of Kakota village, and Shoukat, resident of Chaffer village, sustained serious injuries.
FO spokesperson said Indian side was called upon to respect the 2003 ceasefire understanding, investigate this and other such incidents of deliberate ceasefire violations and maintain peace along the LoC and the WB.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 07:34pm

Europe

UK not aware of any impact from U.S. hacking, says PM's spokesman

Hackers believed to be working for Russia have been monitoring internal email traffic at the U.S. Treasury and Commerce departments, according to people familiar with the matter.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:27pm

Europe

Russia repeats 91.4pc efficacy rate in new COVID-19 vaccine data

The new results are based on data from 22,714 participants in the trial, and were published after 78 confirmed coronavirus cases were reported among the group.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:26pm

Europe

Moderna expects European approval for COVID-19 vaccine on Jan. 12

"We expect approval for the EU and thus for Germany on Jan. 12," Dan Staner was quoted as saying on Monday. "As soon as we have received the approval, we can deliver."

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:22pm

Energy

Exxon Mobil plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2025

Exxon expects the intensity of upstream emissions to drop by 15pc to 20pc, methane intensity by 40pc to 50pc and flaring intensity by 35pc to 45pc by 2025.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:12pm

South Asia

Afghan peace negotiations suspended till January 5

The Afghan government and the Taliban's negotiation teams have announced in Doha that they will be taking a 20-day break in talks to "consult on the agenda items".
The talks are expected to resume on the 5th of January 2021.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 07:18pm

Pakistan

Failed Lahore meeting must serve as wake-up call for PDM: Dr. Firdous

Participation of a few thousand spectators was a slap in the face of the PDM as December 13 had passed after Dec 8 and nothing had happened, she added.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:06pm

Pakistan

PDM must take notice of Achakzai remarks: Abdul Aleem

He said that even after 73 years since the establishment of Pakistan, it was unfortunate to have such blatant hatred towards the beloved homeland which no patriot would support.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:02pm

Pakistan

CM thanks Lahorites for ignoring PDM anarchistic designs

He said that December 13 also passed and nothing had happened, adding that the people totally rejected the negative politics of the rejected elements.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:01pm

Pakistan

PR retrieves land worth over Rs10m from grabbers

Deputy director property land railways Multan has sent the report to divisional superintendent railways Multan Naveed Mubashir.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:57pm

Pakistan

Christian employees to get salaries in advance on account of Christmas: Sindh govt

The Sindh government would pay salaries for the month of December in advance to all Christian employees/ pensioners of the provincial government.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:56pm

Pakistan

Bullion prices on Monday

Following were the bullion prices in Karachi on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:53pm

Pakistan

Bullion rates in Hyderabad gold market

Following were the bullion rates in Hyderabad gold market on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:45pm

Sports

Red Bull look with hope to 2021 after ending Mercedes' Abu Dhabi stranglehold

The 23-year-old Dutchman converted pole position to an unchallenged victory nearly 16 seconds ahead of Mercedes pair Valtteri Bottas and Lewis Hamilton.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:41pm

Africa

J&J has applied to South Africa for registering COVID-19 vaccine, says regulator

South Africa is currently the worst-hit country in the continent in terms of coronavirus infections and has entered a second wave.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:39pm

South Asia

Phillips 66 expects to spend 43pc less in 2021

The company said market conditions "remain challenged" after the COVID-19 pandemic decimated fuel demand for most of 2020.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:32pm

Europe

London likely to move into toughest tier of COVID-19 restrictions

A countrywide review of the tier system is scheduled to take place on Dec. 16, although London Mayor Sadiq Khan said it was possible a decision on London could come as early as Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:28pm

Commodities

Ukraine's white sugar output from beet reaches 956,400 T so far in 2020/21

That already accounts for the bulk of the total white sugar output of 1.2 million tonnes predicted by the union for the full harvest year, a drop of 15% compared to the previous year.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:26pm

South Asia

Japan's PM to suspend travel campaign around New Year to contain virus

The country recorded more than 3,000 new infections for the first time in one day on Saturday and Tokyo, Japan's largest city, confirmed 621 new cases.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:21pm

World

Iran's missile programme is non-negotiable, says Rouhani

Biden appears to see a return to the 2015 international nuclear deal as a prelude to wider talks on Iran's nuclear work, its ballistic missiles and regional activities.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:17pm

Europe

EU to continue post-Brexit talks as long as there is chance for deal: Germany

"Negotiations continue although all deadlines have been broken, and we think this is the right thing to do," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:14pm

World

Pfizer CEO says in talks with U.S. on more COVID-19 shots

Pfizer is still negotiating with the U.S. on whether it will be able to deliver the vaccine in the second or third quarter of the year.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:13pm

Forex

Dollar falls; sterling up 1.5pc as Brexit deal hopes lift risk appetite

The pound gained after the UK and European Union agreed on Sunday to continue Brexit talks and the EU's chief negotiator said a deal was still possible.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:09pm

Commodities

Raw sugar falls as investors liquidate long, bet on Indian exports

March raw sugar fell 0.7pc to 14.33 cents per lb at 1218 GMT, having posted its third consecutive weekly loss last week.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:02pm

Commodities

Russian domestic wheat prices down sharply as export tax looms

Sovecon said wheat export prices rose by $2 to $257 a tonne, while barley was steady at $216 a tonne.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 06:00pm

South Asia

Indian farmers step up pressure with hunger strike against reforms

Leaders of protesting Indian farmers began a one-day hunger strike on Monday against agricultural reforms they say threaten their livelihoods.
Small growers fear the changes, part of Modi’s liberalising reforms, will mean the end of price support for staples such as wheat and rice and leave them at the mercy of big business.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:59pm

Sports

United to face La Liga leaders in Europa League

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side finished third in their Champions League group and dropped into the second tier competition after last week's defeat by RB Leipzig.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:58pm

Europe

UK hopeful for EU trade deal, gaps still remain, says PM's spokesman

"We remain hopeful of reaching an agreement ... No deal is a possible outcome ... But we've been clear that we will continue to work to reach a free trade agreement,"

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:56pm

Business & Finance

Volkswagen supervisory board to meet Monday to discuss leadership crisis

Supervisory board chairman Hans Dieter Poetsch, seeking to find a solution, held talks with main stakeholders over the weekend, one source said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:53pm

Pakistan

Rs299.7 billion released for social sector uplift projects

Likewise, Rs. 14 billion out of allocated fund of Rs. 29.4 billion has been disbursed to the Higher Education Commission, Rs. 175 million out of Rs. 350 million to the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:50pm

Pakistan

Rupee sheds 34 paisas against US dollar

Meanwhile, according to Forex Association of Pakistan, the buying and selling rates of dollar in the open market were recorded at Rs. 159.7 and Rs. 160.5 respectively.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:48pm

Pakistan

IRSA releases 70,500 cusecs water

According to the data released by IRSA, water level in the Indus River at Tarbela Dam was 1475.97 feet, which was 83.97 feet higher than its dead level 1386 feet.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:46pm

World

Google Down while Gmail, YouTube and other services disrupted amid a global outage

As of reportedly 4:40PM (Pakistan Standard Time), Google, Gmail, YouTube and other related services are experiencing a global outage.
As of 5:38PM (Pakistan Standard Time), most services have been restored.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 05:45pm

Business & Finance

Alphabet's YouTube, Gmail, Google Drive services face outage

Many services from Alphabet Inc, including YouTube, Gmail and Google Drive, were down for thousands of users across the globe on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:30pm

Pakistan

Gold prices decrease Rs.300 to Rs110,500 per tola

The gold price in the in international market decreased by $.16 and was traded at $.1824 against its sale at $.1840, the association added.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:34pm

Pakistan

Bulls rule PSX, index gains 795 points to close at 43,266 points

Khyber Tobacco witnessed maximum decrease of Rs. 12.04 per share, closing at Rs. 400.62 whereas Otsuka Pak shares decreased by Rs. 1150 per share closing at Rs. 300.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 05:17pm

Pakistan

IHC reserves decision on Capt. (r) Safdar's petition for security

The petitioner’s Lawyer Jahangir Jadoon adopted the stance that Captain (r) Safdar had given application to secretary interior in that regard but no decision was taken on it.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 05:17pm

Business & Finance

Bullish wave hits PSX, KSE-100 crosses 43,000 pts

According to details, the KSE-100 Index increased by 795.82 points, showing a percentage change of 1.87pc, after 11 months crossed the 43,000 points limit to close at 43,266.22 points.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:42pm

Companies

AirSial Announces Free Travel for Accompanying Deceased

AirSial Limited announces free travel facility for one person accompanying a deceased.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 04:37pm

Pakistan

PM visits NHQ, recognizes Pak Navy’s preparedness to safeguard country’s sea frontiers, Gwadar port

PM visited the Naval Headquarters in Islamabad where he was received by the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi.
The PM commended the professionalism, Operations readiness and contribution of Pakistan Navy in regional maritime security.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:36pm

Business & Finance

Indonesia central bank seen keeping rates at record low at 2020's final meeting

The pandemic has pushed Southeast Asia's largest economy into recession for the first time in 22 years.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:32pm

Commodities

Jordan issues new tender to buy 120,000 tonnes wheat

Jordan's state grain buyer the trade ministry is tendering to buy 120,000 tonnes of milling wheat which can be sourced from optional origins, European traders said on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:29pm

Business & Finance

Turkish industrial production jumps 10.2pc in October

Month-on-month, industrial production was up 1.1pc in October on a calendar and seasonally adjusted basis, the Turkish Statistical Institute said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:25pm

Europe

UK and EU still apart on Brexit but PM doesn't want to walk yet: minister

"People expect us, businesses expect us in the UK to go the extra mile and that's precisely what we're doing," Sharma said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:22pm

Commodities

Ivory Coast 2020/21 cocoa port arrivals seen at 909,000 T by Dec. 13

About 46,000 tonnes of beans were delivered to Abidjan port and 43,000 tonnes to San Pedro between Dec. 7 and Dec. 13 for a total of 89,000 tonnes.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:20pm

South Asia

China urges U.S. to stop abusing state power to crack down on foreign firms

Nasdaq said on Friday it will remove shares of four Chinese construction and manufacturing companies from the indexes on Dec. 21.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:17pm

Energy

LNG tankers heading to Britain, Belgium and the Netherlands

Estimated arrival dates, often revised by port authorities and AIS Live ship-tracking data on Refinitiv Eikon, are updated below.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:14pm

Europe

Russia reports 27,328 new coronavirus cases

Authorities said 450 people had died overnight, taking the official death toll to 47,391.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:13pm

Business & Finance

Most markets in Gulf firm as financials rise, Qatar falls

Saudi Arabia's benchmark index added 0.1pc, with Al Rajhi Bank firming 0.2pc, while its largest lender National Commercial Bank was up 0.5pc.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:10pm

Commodities

Gold dips as vaccine rollouts dent appeal

Spot gold fell 0.4pc to $1,831.75 per ounce by 0746 GMT, while U.S. gold futures eased 0.4pc to $1,836.80.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:05pm

Forex

Asian currencies tied down as central banks seek to slow gains

Investors poured money into Asian equities last month, helping both stock and currency markets recover further from losses in the first quarter's coronavirus-driven sell-off.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 04:00pm

Forex

Kenyan shilling stable amid slow activity

At 0805 GMT, commercial banks quoted the shilling at 111.45/111.65 per dollar, the same as Friday's closing rate.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:59pm

Pakistan

CTD nabs three militants, foils plan to attack Islamabad Stock Exchange

During interrogation, terrorists admitted to carrying out four terrorist attacks in Pakistan and planned to bomb the Islamabad Stock Exchange
CTD says militant organisations operating from Afghanistan had provided financial support to militants

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:59pm

Europe

Irish PM hopeful of Brexit deal, still significant challenges

"You're right, the real end deadline is New Year's Eve but I think both sides are very possessed of the need to get outcomes to these negotiations in the next number of days," he added.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:56pm

Business & Finance

Euro zone yields come off one-month lows after Brexit talks extended

British 10-year Gilts were up 2.5 bps at 0.20%, while Ireland -- the euro zone country most affected by Brexit -- saw its 10-year borrowing costs rise off last week's record low to -0.31%.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:51pm

Pakistan

Murad Ali Shah submits resignation letter as Sindh chief minister to PPP’s leadership

PDM Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman announced that all opposition lawmakers will submit their resignations to their respective party heads by December 31.
The PDM said that it will hold a long march to Islamabad in January or February to force the government to quit.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:55pm

Forex

Rouble steadies near 4-month peak vs dollar, MOEX hits record high

The rouble was 0.1pc stronger against the dollar at 72.88 after touching 72.79, its strongest since Aug. 17.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:48pm

Forex

Dollar falls as vaccine progress boosts risk appetite; sterling up more than 1pc

The dollar was down around 0.2pc against a basket of currencies at 90.621 at 0804 GMT, staying within December's ranges but not far from its lowest since 2018.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:44pm

USA

U.S. lawmakers plan to split $908 billion COVID-19 plan into two parts: source

A $908 billion bipartisan COVID-19 relief plan set to be introduced in the U.S. Congress as early as Monday will be split into two packages in a bid to win approval.
One of the sponsors of the $908 billion plan, Democratic Senator Joe Manchin, said earlier on Sunday it would be introduced formally on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:41pm

Business & Finance

Hungary central bank will not hold govt bond purchase auctions in last two weeks of Dec

The bank will hold its regular one-week deposit tenders on Dec. 23 and Dec. 30, taking into account the holidays.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:42pm

Stocks

AstraZeneca shares fall on $39-billion Alexion bill

Credit Suisse analysts said AstraZeneca's price was "reasonable", but that other bidders may yet emerge to fill in the gap for the U.S. firm's "full" value.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:36pm

Pakistan

Bilawal to meet Shehbaz in Kot Lakhpat Jail tomorrow

PPP Chairperson will offer his condolences to the latter over the demise of his (Shehbaz’s) mother Begum Shamim Akhtar.
Other PPP leaders including Sherry Rehman, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Qamar Zaman Kaira are expected to accompany Bilawal during the meeting.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:38pm

Business & Finance

Germany's Daimler to produce fully electric compact SUV in Hungary

Hungary's economy imploded in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, falling by an annual 13.6pc in the second quarter.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:32pm

World

Police in India target Muslims under 'love jihad' law

Uttar Pradesh police arrested at least 10 Muslim men under Hindu right-wing conspiracy theory
The idea has been used to justify legislation enacted in Uttar Pradesh and is proposed in four other Indian states

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:35pm

South Asia

Japan to decide on third extra budget to ease COVID-19 pain

The extra budget comes a week before next fiscal year's annual budget draft is due to be decided, both of which will be rolled out together as a 15-month budget.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:30pm

Europe

EU's Barnier says ‘next few days’ important for Brexit deal talks

"Fair competition, and a sustainable solution for our fishermen and women, are key to reaching a deal."

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:26pm

Technology

Pakistani doctor develops instant COVID-19 Diagnostic test App

Raza Bashir Tarar hoped that clinical trials of the innovation would prove its efficacy for the COVID-19 test and pave the way for necessary approvals before put to use at the mass level.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:23pm

Stocks

European shares cheer Brexit trade talks extension; AstraZeneca drops

London's FTSE 100 shook off initial nervousness from a rising pound to gain 0.1pc, led by banks and energy shares.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:24pm

Europe

Brexit trade deal odds rise in betting markets as talks grind on

Many investment banks meanwhile still stuck to their expectations of a "thin" UK-EU trade deal while cutting down the probability marginally as talks drag on.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:20pm

Asia

Singapore approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, expects first shots by year-end

The city-state of 5.7 million people expects to have enough vaccines for everyone by the third quarter of 2021 and will make it free for citizens and long-term residents, Lee, 68, said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:17pm

Pakistan

Nawaz Sharif should personally handover parliamentarians resignations to speaker, says Shahzad Akbar

In a tweet, he said Nawaz Sharif should personally handover the resignations to speakers of their respective assemblies next month in January 2021.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:19pm

Business & Finance

Oil prices rise on vaccine hopes, tanker blast at Saudi Arabia

Prices also extended gains amid supply jitters after a shipping firm said an oil tanker was hit by an external source while discharging at Jeddah port in Saudi Arabia.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:15pm

Business & Finance

Uganda central bank leaves its policy rate unchanged at 7pc

Uganda's central bank on Monday maintained its benchmark rate at 7pc, extending its loose policy stance to keep credit flowing faster and jumpstart an economy battered.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:13pm

Business & Finance

With eye on exchange rate, Panetta says ECB ready to do more

"We stand ready to adjust all our instruments if downside risks to the outlook materialise, including those stemming from exchange rate dynamics," Panetta said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:10pm

USA

U.S. court to hear appeal challenging order blocking TikTok app store ban

The ban would have required Apple Inc and Alphabet’s Google to remove the app from their stores, preventing new users from downloading it or existing users downloading updated versions.
On Dec. 4, the Trump administration opted not to grant TikTok-owner ByteDance a new extension of an order requiring the company to divest TikTok’s U.S. assets, but talks have continued over the short video-sharing app’s fate.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:07pm

World

Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 71.2 million, death toll at 1,609,452

Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December 2019.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:08pm

Forex

Sterling up to $1.34 after Brexit talks extended

The pound traded 1.4pc higher to the dollar at $1.3405, having hit the day's high of $1.3411 earlier.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:04pm

Pakistan

New Railways minister Azam Khan Swati assumes charge

Azam Swati lauded Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed for his outstanding performance as railways in last two years.
Swati pledged to ensure safety and provide best service to the passengers.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:04pm

Europe

EU-UK trade pact still possible as departure date nears

The European Union’s Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said on Monday that sealing a new pact with Britain was still possible as the date for the country’s departure from the bloc edged nearer.
Despite missing multiple deadlines, Britain and the EU agreed on Sunday to “go the extra mile” to try to break deadlocks on access to UK fishing waters for EU trawlers and corporate fair play rules.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 03:07pm

Pakistan

2,362 new Coronavirus cases reported; 36 deaths in past 24 hours

The maximum ventilators were occupied in four major areas including Multan 64 percent, ICT 47 percent, Rawalpindi 28 percent and Lahore 36 percent.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:59pm

USA

Suspected Russian hackers spied on U.S. Treasury emails - sources

Hackers believed to be working for Russia have been monitoring internal email traffic at the U.S. Treasury and Commerce departments.
National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot added that they “are taking all necessary steps to identify and remedy any possible issues related to this situation.”

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:55pm

Pakistan

Swati vows to leave no stone unturned for ensuring passengers' safety

While assuming the charge of Ministry of Railways, Azam Swati said that converting the Pakistan Railways into modern transport was a big challenge, says a press release.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:57pm

Pakistan

Masses consistently rejected alliance of eleven political parties: Gill

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, every sector is showing positive indicators and the country on right track of development, he added.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:53pm

Pakistan

PM prays for early recovery of Maulana Tariq Jamil

The Prime Minister in a tweet said, "Praying for Maulana Tariq Jamil's speedy and full recovery from Covid-19."

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:50pm

Business & Finance

NEPRA approves Power Tariff increase of Rs1.11 per unit

NEPRA informed that the Actual Fuel Charge Component for September 2020 was Rs 3.9548/kWh, whereas the Corresponding Reference Fuel Charge Component was Rs 2.8410/kWh.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:45pm

Pakistan

Pakistan likely to get COVID-19 vaccine in next two months

Dr Atta explained that dispensing the vaccine will be a lengthy procedure because of Pakistan's population.
The federal cabinet approved a grant of $150 million to procure the virus vaccine.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 02:40pm

Pakistan

Foggy conditions: Several flights delayed at airports in Karachi and Lahore

A Pakistan International Airlines flight PK-302, which was going to depart for Lahore, got delayed for an hour
Four flights were canceled and several delayed due to thick fog and technical issues at Allama Iqbal International Airport

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:39pm

BR Research

Kinnow exports getting squeezed

Kinnow exports commenced at the beginning of this month and sellers say they’re targeting a 17 percent increase in...

Published 14 Dec, 2020 02:00pm

Business & Finance

Pakistan to establish Potato Development Council to enhance exports

The advisor informed that the Potato Development Council will formulate a long-term vision and policy for this sector.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 01:12pm

Pakistan

PDM leadership booked for holding public rally in Greater Iqbal Park

Two separate cases have been registered at Lahore's Larri Ada police station on complaint of park's security staff
PDM leaders and workers are accused of breaking the locks and entering the park, violating rules and SOPs set by the government

Published 14 Dec, 2020 01:14pm

Pakistan

Smart lockdown imposed in more areas of Peshawar

Police have also been deployed at entry and exit points to these areas.
Peshawar reported seven deaths in the last 24 hours.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 01:11pm

World

Divided Washington debates Covid-19 relief plan as deadline looms

On the issue of legal responsibility, she said, "a compromise on the liability issue should be found that does not jeopardize workers' safety."

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:42pm

World

26 Nigerian generals Covid-19 positive: army

Health authorities fear Nigeria might not be able to cope with a second wave because of weak health facilities and poorly equipped and unmotivated personnel.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:39pm

Africa

US rescinds Sudan's State Sponsor of Terror designation: embassy

President Donald Trump announced in October that he was delisting Sudan, a step desperately sought by the nation's new civilian-backed government as the designation severely impeded foreign investment.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:38pm

Stocks

Financials lift Australian shares on hopes of vaccine-led recovery

The healthcare sector has been under pressure after Australia halted its COVID-19 vaccine programme last week.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:35pm

Commodities

Ukraine wheat export prices flat, corn down

It said farmers had almost completed the 2020 corn harvest, threshing 28.8 million tonnes of the commodity from 98% of the sowing area.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:32pm

Asia

South Korea president calls for steps to help exporters hit by strong won

He said that measures to boost exports and investments should be further bolstered at a time when domestic demand and consumption are shrinking due to a worsening COVID-19 situation at home.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:31pm

Europe

Number of COVID-19 cases in Ukraine exceeds 900,000

The government last week said it would introduce tight lockdown restrictions in January, hoping to stop the rapid spread of the infections.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:29pm

Forex

South Africa's rand firms as virus vaccine rollout progress lifts risk appetite

Improved global risk appetite has supported the rand in recent weeks, gaining nearly 7% since the start of November, but concerns about a new wave of coronavirus infections and its impact on a frail local economy have limited gains.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:27pm

Stocks

Japan shares end higher on vaccine roll-outs, BOJ tankan

Nintendo jumped 3.13% as the Kyoto-based gaming company continued to benefit from tougher social restrictions.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:25pm

Business & Finance

Taiwan central bank seen standing pat again as economy rebounds

The central bank will also likely give its revised forecast for economic growth next year on Thursday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:23pm

Companies

Trial fails of ruxolitinib in COVID-19: Novartis

The trial also did not show relevant benefit for other endpoints including mortality rate by day 29 and time to recovery, it said on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:20pm

Financial

Long-dated JGBs inch lower ahead of major central bank meetings

Trading was subdued as market participants stayed on the sidelines ahead of Fed meeting this week, where policymakers are expected to increase purchases of longer-dated US Treasuries to contain a rise in yields.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:19pm

Stocks

South Korea shares fall on surging domestic COVID-19 cases

In offshore trading, the won was quoted at 1,091.7, while in non-deliverable forward trading its one-month contract was quoted at 1,091.3.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:16pm

World

UN agency says more than 400,000 flee Mozambique militant attacks

UNHCR had raised a third of the $19.2 million it requires for shelter, water and sanitation and food next year, said Tapsola.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:14pm

Companies

Australia proposes revenue top-up scheme to keep Alcoa Portland smelter open

It receives payments from Australia's energy market operator whenever it is asked to curb its power use, to compensate for lost production. The size of payments varies from year to year.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:12pm

World

Facebook has not banned a militant group in India as it fears for business interests, staff safety

Social media firm’s security workforce stated in its report that Bajrang Dal supports violence against minorities, especially Muslims across India and sure certified as a “harmful group” that ought to be banned from the platform
Bajrang Dal has been deemed a militant spiritual group by the US Central Intelligence Company and is convicted of hate crimes and religiously motivated killings

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 12:12pm

Companies

Romania's industrial output up 2.1% m/m in October

Data from the National Statistics Board showed on Monday

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:08pm

Companies

Angry Indian workers attack iPhone factory

The workers alleged that they have not been fully paid for four months and are being forced to work overtime.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:02pm

Companies

Honda's UK output to resume on Monday after parts delays

"Honda of the UK Manufacturing has confirmed to employees that full production operations will resume in all areas on Monday 14 December," the firm said in a statement.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:05pm

Africa

Two injured in fire at Nigeria's Qua Iboe oil export terminal

Exxon said the workers were receiving medical treatment following the fire earlier on Sunday at the process area of the terminal.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:02pm

World

China's Xi targets steeper cut in carbon intensity by 2030

Li estimated that China's new carbon intensity target would mean China would reach the peak of its carbon emissions between 2025 and 2030.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 12:01pm

Companies

Panama suspends flights by Venezuelan airlines in tit-for-tat measure

In a statement, the authority said flights were suspended until Venezuela permitted Copa to resume its service and re-established "fair and equal" treatment under a bilateral accord.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:56am

USA

Mexico registers 8,608 new coronavirus cases, 249 more deaths

The government says the real number of infected people is likely significantly higher than the confirmed cases.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:55am

World

First batch of Pfizer/BioNTEch COVID-19 vaccines arrives in Canada

On Saturday, Canada said anyone with vaccine allergies should not take the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:49am

Business & Finance

Indonesia seen posting $2.67bn trade surplus in Nov

The median forecast of 14 analysts in the poll was for a November trade surplus of $2.67 billion, below October's $3.61 billion - the highest in nearly a decade.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:46am

Companies

Changan Alsvin Starts Pre-booking in Pakistan

After its launch in Pakistan last week, Changan Alsvin, a new sedan by Changan Master Motors, is now available for pre-booking.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:29am

Stocks

South Korea stocks flat as surging COVID-19 cases eclipse vaccine hopes

The won was quoted at 1,089.9 per dollar on the onshore settlement platform, 0.04% higher than its previous close at 1,090.3.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:44am

World

Biden considers former EPA chief McCarthy for domestic climate czar

8 Under his leadership at the North Carolina agency, Duke Energy agreed to the largest coal ash cleanup in the United States in January.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:40am

Pakistan

PDM leaders meet today to discuss future strategy against govt

The PDM leadership will discuss the Larkana rally, the long march to Islamabad, and countrywide protests
Bilawal Bhutto, Maryam Nawaz, Mian Iftikhar, Akhtar Mengal, Aftab Sherpao, Mehmood Khan Achakzai and others will participate in the discussion

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:42am

Business & Finance

Vietnam Nov trade surplus narrows to $546mn vs $2.94bn surplus in Oct

The Southeast Asian country recorded a trade surplus of $20.06 billion for the first 11 months of this year, the department said

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:38am

Commodities

Vietnam Nov coffee exports drop 8.4% m/m, rice down 3.1%

For the first eleven months of the year, Vietnam exported 1.43 million tonnes of coffee, down 3.0% from a year earlier, Vietnam Customs said in a statement.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:37am

Commodities

London nickel scales 14-month peak on supply crunch fears

The most-active February nickel contract on the Shanghai Futures Exchange climbed 3.4% to 133,190 yuan ($20,376.04) a tonne, advancing for a sixth consecutive session.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:33am

Asia

South Korea orders schools to shut as COVID-19 cases spike

The government launched a massive tracing effort involving hundreds of troops, police and officials to help track down virus carriers.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:31am

Real Estate

China's new home prices slow in November as market-cooling steps take hold

China's banking regulator recently highlighted the property sector as a significant risk to financial stability, branding it a "grey rhino" - an obvious yet ignored threat.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:28am

Sports

NZ focusing on Pakistan, not potential test championship final

New Zealand head to Auckland on Tuesday to begin preparations for three Twenty20 matches against Pakistan before a two-test series begins in Mt. Maunganui on Dec. 26.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:24am

Companies

Careem Supports Restaurant Industry by Reducing Commissions to 5pc

Careem has announced its decision to reduce restaurant commissions to 5 percent as the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic hits Pakistan.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:08am

USA

President Trump says "it's not over", ahead of Electoral College meeting

The Electoral College will officially vote on Monday, as it is expected to cement Biden’s presidential victory ahead of his inauguration in January.
“No, it’s not over,” Trump said. “We keep going and we’re going to continue to go forward.”

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 11:24am

Stocks

Indian shares hit record highs, all eyes on Burger King debut

Burger King India, which runs the franchise of Restaurant Brands International Inc's US chain Burger King, will debut later during the session on Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:22am

World

Bird flu spreads to 10th Japanese prefecture

All farms in Japan were earlier ordered to disinfect facilities and check hygiene regimes, and ensure that nets to keep out wild birds are installed properly, agriculture ministry officials told Reuters this week.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:20am

Asia

Vietnam leadership wrangling heats up as Communist Party meets

Linh Nguyen, a Singapore-based analyst at risk consultancy Control Risks, said the outcome of this congress will likely be more unpredictable than previous years.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:17am

World

Trump suggests White House staff will wait longer for COVID-19 vaccines

Doses of the vaccine will reach 145 locations across the country on Monday, with initial shots to go to healthcare workers and elderly residents of long-term care homes.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:15am

Asia

Japan's PM may curb tourism campaign to fight virus as approval rating drops

Over the weekend, polls found public support for the prime minister has eroded over his handling of the pandemic.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:11am

Europe

Germany's confirmed coronavirus cases rise by 16,362

The numbers are usually lower on Mondays, because there is less testing and less data being transmitted to the RKI on weekends.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:09am

Business & Finance

Robots drive Hyundai from humdrum to high tech

Regulations are uncertain too, especially concerning technology that has military applications - as Boston Dynamics designs do.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:07am

Commodities

Wheat extends gains into fourth session

The most active corn futures were up 1.1% at $4.29 a bushel, having gained 0.5% in the previous session.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:04am

Business & Finance

Burger King India shares soar in market debut

At the debut price, the company had a market value of 42.94 billion rupees ($583.11 million).

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:02am

Business & Finance

China fines Alibaba, Tencent for failing to report past deals to anti-trust regulators

The State Administration of Market Regulation said in a statement that it had taken the decision after reviewing deals the firms were involved in.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 11:00am

Technology

Apple says Goodbye to its Music Memos Recording App

Apple has announced that it will be shutting down its Music Memos recording app.
Apple is encouraging users to transfer their recordings to the Voice Memos app.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:48am

Stocks

China stocks rise on hopes of policy support; Hong Kong dips

Nasdaq said last week it will remove shares of four Chinese construction and manufacturing companies from indexes it maintains in response to a US order restricting purchase of their shares.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:57am

Business & Finance

Pakistan to receive $1.5 billion from China to repay Saudi Arabia debt

In 2018, Saudi Arabia agreed to give Pakistan $3 billion in foreign currency support for a year and a further loan worth up to $3 billion in deferred payments for oil imports to help stave off a current account crisis.
Out of $2 billion, Pakistan is now set to return the $1 billion to Saudi Arabia.

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 10:59am

Energy

India's fuel demand climbs for third straight month in November

Total fuel demand fell 3.7% on year after registering its first year-on-year increase since February in October, as manufacturing and services slowed with consumers staying indoors to avoid getting infected by the novel coronavirus.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:55am

Europe

EU rights watchdog warns of pitfalls in use of AI

The agency said AI rules must respect all fundamental rights, with safeguards to ensure this and include a guarantee that people can challenge decisions taken by AI and that companies need to be able to explain how their systems take AI decisions.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:53am

Pakistan

PM prays for Maulana Tariq Jamil's speedy recovery from COVID-19

"Praying for Maulana Tariq Jamil's speedy and full recovery from Covid 19," PM tweeted.
Maulana Tariq Jamil is admitted to a hospital after he tested positive for the novel virus.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:52am

Business & Finance

Roshan Digital Account: Daily inward Remittances set another Record

The inward remittances from overseas Pakistanis into RDA touched another daily high with inflows of $11.2 million on 11 December 2020.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:45am

Sports

Federer still not 100% fit, a doubt for Australian Open Dec 14

"It's a race against time for the Australian Open. I'm curious to see whether it will start on Feb. 8," Federer said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:43am

Commodities

Iron ore slumps over 4% as speculative buying dissipates

"However, a gradual rollout means we would probably see more lacklustre demand growth, which could push the iron ore market back into surplus, weighing on prices," they said in a note.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:41am

Forex

Yuan rises despite latest PBOC measure to reduce capital inflows

Prior to the market opening, the PBOC set the midpoint rate at 6.5361 per dollar, 44 pips firmer than the previous fix of 6.5405.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:38am

Business & Finance

Turkish auto production rises 5.4% in Nov

In the January-November period, which was affected by lockdown measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:36am

Forex

Thai baht dips on suspected central bank intervention; stocks up on vaccine boost

In the Philippines, the peso advanced 0.2% and stocks climbed to their highest since Feb. 21, as the central bank raised its projections for current account and balance of payments surpluses this year and in 2021.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:33am

Technology

Pakistan’s telemedicine platform successfully implements Tele-ICU software

“Tele-ICU is the need of the hour. We support Sehat Kahani and its partners in this great initiative as it aids in providing high-quality intensive care to patients in rural as well as urban areas.”

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:32am

Commodities

Palm oil rises for third day; Malaysian export tax eyed

The market expects output in December to remain squeezed as rainy weather brought on by La Nina is expected to persist until the first quarter of next year.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:29am

World

US expects to have immunized 100 million against COVID-19 by end of March -Slaoui

He said the United States hopes to have about 40 million doses of vaccine distributed by the end of December.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:27am

Sports

Injury-hit Australia call up Henriques for India Test

His likely replacement, rookie Will Pucovski, was ruled out with concussion after being struck on the helmet by a bouncer in a warm-up match last week.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:25am

World

UK PM Johnson says on Brexit trade talks: we're very far apart

“The best thing to do now, for everybody, is to follow up all the work that has been done over the last four and half years, colossal amount of preparation at our ports, everywhere across the UK, get ready to trade on WTO terms, Boris said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:24am

Asia

Storms help Australia contain UNESCO heritage island fire

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service said the fire burned through more than 50 percent of the 166,000-hectare island, raising fears of widespread environmental damage.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:21am

Middle East

Explosion strikes tanker off Saudi port: maritime sources

Saudi Arabia is stuck in a military quagmire in Yemen, which has been locked in conflict since the rebels took control of the capital Sanaa in 2014 and went on to seize much of the north.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:17am

Sports

Messi saves lacklustre Barca, Sociedad reclaim top spot

However the three points are a boost ahead of the visit of Sociedad on Wednesday, which is then followed up by another home clash with Valencia on Saturday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:08am

USA

14 dead in migrant shipwreck between Venezuela and Trinidad

Venezuela has been crippled by a political and economic crisis causing runaway inflation, long queues for petrol, shortages of water and gas, and power cuts.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:06am

Sports

Ronaldo marks Juve century as late Hernandez brace rescues AC Milan

Bologna's Andrea Poli turned into his own net after five minutes before Edin Dzeko added a second to give the hosts a two-goal advantage after 10 minutes.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 10:02am

Sports

Lyon defeat PSG as Neymar stretchered off with ankle injury

Portugal defender Jose Fonte, who turns 37 later this month, scored the winner for Lille with a bullet header just before half-time against Bordeaux.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:59am

World

US government confirms cyberattack

US media reports said the FBI was investigating a group working for the Russian foreign intelligence service, SVR, and that breaches had been taking place for months.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:56am

World

Health centre water crisis increasing virus risk: WHO

"Working in a healthcare facility without water, sanitation and hygiene is akin to sending nurses and doctors to work without personal protective equipment," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:55am

Business & Finance

Japan business confidence improves again after virus plunge

Once it hit, there were no mandatory lockdowns in the country, with the government instead asking people to stay at home -- a request that was largely heeded.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:52am

Sports

New Zealand sweep West Indies to top Test cricket rankings

The top five West Indies batsmen totalled only 267 across their four Test innings, just 16 more than New Zealand maestro Williamson scored on his own in the first Test.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:46am

Pakistan

Man injured in Indian firing across LoC: ISPR

A 45 years old citizen got injured due to unprovoked Indian firing, ISPR said.
This year 27 people have died due to India's indiscriminate and unprovoked firing.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:41am

Saudi 'mini Ritz' corruption crackdown evokes awe, fear

Further triggering shockwaves, joint forces commander Prince Fahad bin Turki -- a senior royal -- and his son Abdulaziz bin Fahad, the deputy emir of northern Al-Jouf region, were fired in late August and placed under investigation for corruption.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:42am

US Electoral College set to confirm Biden win as Trump fights on

This weekend, when asked on Fox News whether he would attend Biden's inauguration on January 20 -- as demanded by protocol and centuries of tradition -- the former real estate magnate snapped, "I don't want to talk about that."

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:37am

Sports

Rugby World Cup pool draw to be held under concussion cloud

"It's a big moment, we're a little bit excited to know who we'll start against and our pool," Ollivon told Canal+ on Sunday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:35am

World

New Zealand aims to open to Australians in early 2021

"It's not a hypothetical -- there have been several (Australian outbreaks)," she said.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:33am

Sports

West Indies skipper Holder wants end to having only home umpires

But with the Covid-19 disruption to international sport and the "logistical challenges with international travel" the ICC rescinded the rule this year to again allow for home umpires and match referees.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:31am

Sports

Bayern and their challengers await Champions League fates

Of the 16 teams who will go into the two pots at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon for the draw at 1100 GMT, four are German and four are Spanish.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:28am

World

Brazil's vaccination plan is assailed as 'incompetent'

The Datafolha poll found 50 percent of respondents said they would not take a vaccine made in China, against 47 percent who would.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:24am

Stocks

Hong Kong shares down at break

The Hang Seng Index eased 0.10 percent, or 25.51 points, to 26,480.36.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:22am

World

US to start vaccinating as Germany returns to partial lockdown

Even as US health experts welcomed the unprecedented vaccine effort, they cautioned people not to grow lax in observing precautions.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:18am

Stocks

Australian shares creep higher as tech stocks gain, healthcare stocks sink further

Energy stocks, down 0.9%, tracked a downturn in oil prices as new coronavirus-related restrictions in New York stoked demand concerns.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:16am

Stocks

Australia shares set to fall, NZ stock exchange to delay open

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed with modest declines on Friday, while the US Food and Drug Administration granted an emergency use authorization for the Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:12am

Energy

Oil prices edge up on hope vaccines will improve fuel demand

Investors are looking ahead to two meetings between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies including Russia, a grouping known as OPEC+.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:10am

Forex

Australia, New Zealand dollars tread water ahead of Fed meeting

In New Zealand, economists are predicting Thursday's quarterly data will show a large economic rebound for the country's gross domestic product.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:06am

Commodities

Wheat hits near three-week high

The most active corn futures were up 1.1% at $4.29 a bushel, having gained 0.5% in the previous session.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:04am

Stocks

Stocks look for vaccine-led recovery, US stimulus

Oil prices edged higher on Monday having now rallied for six weeks straight as investors priced in a global recovery next year.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 09:01am

Stocks

Japan shares edge higher on vaccine roll-out progress, BOJ tankan

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will chair a coronavirus meeting later in the day and could further restrict a travel subsidy programme to contain mounting infections.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:58am

Commodities

Gold inches down as vaccine rollout counters US stimulus hopes

But gold's losses were limited by hopes of further US fiscal stimulus, with Reuters reporting that a $908 billion relief plan will be split in two in an effort to win approval and could be introduced as early as Monday.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:56am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks open higher on sound business survey

The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.2 percent at 30,046.37, while the broad-based S&P 500 declined 0.1 percent and the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index shed 0.3 percent.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:50am

Man shot by New York police after Christmas concert gunfire

"I heard two or three booms that were really loud," she said. "I looked up and maybe ten meters away from me on the stairs there was a guy shooting.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:49am

Business & Finance

Pound rises on Brexit talks extension, vaccine lifts stocks

The vaccine "is giving markets the ability to look past the valley", Andy Kapyrin, of RegentAtlantic Capital LLC, told Bloomberg TV.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:43am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks open slightly higher

The Hang Seng Index edged up 0.06 percent, or 16.23 points, to 26,522.10.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:41am

Nigeria steps up rescue efforts for abducted students

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also condemned the attack Sunday and called for the student's release in a statement issued by his spokesperson.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:38am

Sports

Olson's major title bid hit by family tragedy

In 2018, she tied for second at the Evian Championship after a double bogey on the 18th hole, and she played in the final group of another major that year, the ANA Inspiration, where she finished tied for ninth.

Published 14 Dec, 2020 08:35am

BR Research

Interview with the CEO, Telenor Pakistan

“Leadership is important during events that threaten business continuity” Irfan Wahab Khan is the CEO of ...

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:40am

BR Research

The remittances galore

Staying over $2 billion mark for six months in a row, remittances in November 2020 are up again both on year-on-year...

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:35am

BR Research

Basmati battle: biding time

Federal government’s czar for Commerce took to social media last week to announce filing of Pakistan’s Notice of...

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:30am

BR Research

KSE-100: consolidation at play?

One would have thought that investors at Pakistan Stock Exchange would start exercising caution following the onset...

Published 14 Dec, 2020 07:25am

Pakistan

Seven Christmas Bazaars to be established in Faisalabad

FAISALABAD: On the directions of CM Punjab Sardar Usman Buzdar, as many as seven Christmas Bazaars would be...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 04:02am

Pakistan

Criminal's gang busted in Capital

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Aabpara police has arrested four persons of a criminal's gang involved in incident of dacoity...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 04:00am

Pakistan

MBBS, BDS annual examination: KMU announces revised schedule

PESHAWAR: Khyber Medical University (KMU) Peshawar has announced revised schedule for MBBS and BDS 1st, 2nd, 3rd,...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:59am

Pakistan

KPT to convert Port House into visiting dignitaries house: Zaidi

ISLAMABAD: In pursuance of Prime Minister Imran Khan austerity drive, Karachi Port Trust (KPT) is converting the...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:57am

Pakistan

Maulana Tariq Jameel tests positive for Covid-19

LAHORE: Renowned religious scholar and leader of Tableeghi Jammat Maulana Tariq Jameel has tested positive for the...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:55am

Pakistan

Occupying Afghanistan: Lahorities supported British: Achakzai

LAHORE: Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party Chairman Mehmood Khan Achakzai has accused Lahorities of supporting the ...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:55am

Pakistan

Sindh governor lauds efforts, initiatives of Chinese CG

KARACHI: The Governor Imran Ismail, lauded efforts and initiatives of Consulate General taken for Karachi, ...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:54am

Pakistan

Siraj holds PTI, PDM responsible for plight of people

LAHORE: Holding both the PTI and the PDM responsible for the plight of the public, Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Senator...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:54am

Pakistan

People of Lahore show confidence on PM's leadership: Firdous

LAHORE: Special Assistant to Punjab Chief Minister on Information Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan has said that Lahorites in...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:53am

South Asia

India farmers intensify protests as deadlock over new laws continue

MUMBAI/NEW DELHI: Tens of thousands of Indian farmers on Sunday intensified their protests against three new...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:25am

Europe

Fresh protest in Poland over abortion ruling

WARSAW: Thousands of people turned out in Warsaw Sunday for the latest protest against a court decision restricting...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:24am

World

US launches virus vaccine shipments as world virus deaths top 1.6 million

WASHINGTON: The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine was to begin leaving the company's Michigan factory on Sunday, ...

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:23am

25 injured in Rawalpindi blast

RAWALPINDI: At least 25 people were injured in an explosion on Sunday near Rawalpindi's Ganj Mandi Police Station....

Updated 14 Dec, 2020 03:22am

Currency	Rate
USD PKR Interbank Selling / Jun 24	278.40
USD PKR Interbank Buying / Jun 24	278.20
USD to Japanese Yen / Jun 26	161.72
USD to Swiss Franc / Jun 26	0.81
Pound Sterling to USD / Jun 26	1.32
Euro to USD / Jun 26	1.14
SOFR % / Jun 24	3.62

Stock	Volume
S&P 500 / Jun 25	7,357.49
India Sensex / Jun 25	77,100.47
Nasdaq / Jun 25	25,358.60
Dow Jones / Jun 25	51,920.62
Tokyo Nikkei / Jun 26	68,853.35
Hang Seng / Jun 26	22,645.31
FTSE 100 / Jun 26	10,459.33
Germany DAX 30 / Jun 26	24,706.87
France CAC40 / Jun 26	8,385.08

Item	Value
Karachi Cotton PKR/37.32 KG / Jun 24	18,280
Gold 10 Grams PKR / Jun 24	368,985
Petrol/Litre / Jun 26	299.50
Crude Oil USD/Barrel / Jun 26	70.44
Gold Spot USD/Ounce / Jun 26	4,032.47
Diesel/Litre / Jun 26	311.47
Cotton US¢/pound / Jun 26	76.16

Stock	Price
Ghani Chemworld Limited (R) / Jun 24 Ghani Chemworld Limited Right(GCWLR)	8.01 ▲ 1 (14.27%)
Gulistan Sp. / Jun 24 Gulistan Spinning Mills Limited(GUSM)	10.01 ▲ 0.94 (10.36%)
Ali Asghar / Jun 24 Ali Asghar Textile Mills Limited(AATM)	57.61 ▲ 5.24 (10.01%)
Al-Shaheer Corp / Jun 24 Al Shaheer Corporation Limited(ASC)	12.20 ▲ 1.11 (10.01%)
Feroze 1888 / Jun 24 Feroze1888 Mills Limited(FML)	57.48 ▲ 5.23 (10.01%)
J.A.Textile / Jun 24 J.A. Textile Mills Limited(JATM)	33.52 ▲ 3.05 (10.01%)
Sardar Chemical / Jun 24 Sardar Chemical Industries Limited(SARC)	77.07 ▲ 7.01 (10.01%)
Buxly Paints / Jun 24 Buxly Paints Limited(BUXL)	251.72 ▲ 22.88 (10%)
Chashma / Jun 24 Chashma Sugar Mills Limited(CHAS)	101.19 ▲ 9.2 (10%)
Fateh Sports / Jun 24 Fateh Sports Wear Limited(FSWL)	111.29 ▲ 10.12 (10%)

Stock	Price
First Fid. Leasing / Jun 24 First Fidelity Leasing Modaraba(FFLM)	22.28 ▼ -2.47 (-9.98%)
Int. Knit. / Jun 24 International Knitwear Limited(INKL)	100.26 ▼ -11.12 (-9.98%)
Aruj Industries / Jun 24 Aruj Industries Limited(ARUJ)	10.80 ▼ -1.14 (-9.55%)
NIT PakistanXD / Jun 24 NIT Pakistan Gateway ETF(NITGETF)	37.25 ▼ -3.75 (-9.15%)
Aisha Steel(ConPS) / Jun 24 Aisha Steel(ConPS)(ASLPS)	23.52 ▼ -2.32 (-8.98%)
Pakgen Power / Jun 24 Pakgen Power Limited(PKGP)	43.13 ▼ -3.72 (-7.94%)
First AL-Noor Mod. / Jun 24 First Al-Noor Modaraba(FANM)	7.06 ▼ -0.51 (-6.74%)
Zuma Resources / Jun 24 Zuma Resources Limited(ZUMA)	104.71 ▼ -7.26 (-6.48%)
Popular Islamic / Jun 24 Popular Islamic Modaraba(PIM)	22.28 ▼ -1.26 (-5.35%)
TPL Insurance / Jun 24 TPL Insurance Limited(TPLI)	25.60 ▼ -1.44 (-5.33%)

Stock	Volume
K-Electric Ltd. / Jun 24 K-Electric Limited(KEL)	112,892,122 ▲ 0.33
Pak Int.Bulk / Jun 24 Pakistan International Bulk Terminal(PIBTL)	73,295,107 ▲ 0.94
WorldCall Telecom / Jun 24 Worldcall Telecom Limited(WTL)	38,761,163 ▲ 0.01
Pak Elektron / Jun 24 Pak Elektron Limited(PAEL)	31,348,609 ▲ 1.02
Maple Leaf Cement / Jun 24 Maple Leaf Cement Factory Limited(MLCF)	27,194,838 ▲ 3.85
PIA Holding Co.Ltd / Jun 24 PIA Holding Company Limited(PIAHCLA)	21,872,379 ▲ 1.92
Kohinoor Spinning / Jun 24 Kohinoor Spinning Mills Limited(KOSM)	20,610,130 ▲ 0.11
Sui South Gas / Jun 24 Sui Southern Gas Company Limited(SSGC)	20,069,542 ▼ -0.9
The Organic Meat / Jun 24 The Organic Meat Company Limited(TOMCL)	20,043,142 ▲ 2.92
B.O.Punjab / Jun 24 The Bank of Punjab(BOP)	18,657,800 ▲ 0.26