News Archives for Latest - 2020-12-15

Pakistan

COVID-19 treatment: Pakistan likely to be first to complete ‘immunoglobulin therapy research’

The therapy uses immunoglobulin (IG), which is rich in the antibodies that target the virus.
In June, DUHS started trial of the therapy on 30 participants, most from the high-risk group of people above the age of 60, with many suffering from diabetes, hypertension and other comorbidities.

Updated 16 Dec, 2020 09:32pm

USA

Biden has call with McConnell after top Senate Republican acknowledges win

McConnell congratulated Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on their victory during remarks on the Senate floor on Tuesday.
"While we disagree on a lot of things, there are things we can work together on," Biden told.

Updated 16 Dec, 2020 12:17am

Pakistan

Rashid asks opposition to resign from assemblies forthwith

The public meetings or long march being organized by PDM could not topple the government, he claimed.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:57pm

Pakistan

NAB resolving business community's issues on priority: Chairman

The NAB chairman said the prosperity of business community and country were interlinked.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:51pm

Pakistan

Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri calls on CM Balochistan Jam Kamal

In this regard, a number of schemes are being started by incumbent provincial government in the province so that all district of Baluchistan could make progress, he added.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:54pm

Pakistan

Govt. committed for socio-economic uplift of nation: Imran Ismail

Prime Minister Imran Khan was pursuing his vision of carrying out development throughout the country, he said adding, the Federal Government wanted to take all parties along.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:51pm

Pakistan

Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia phones PM

He also condoled the demise of Dr. Naeem Ghani and lauded his selfless devotion to the Foundation throughout his lifetime.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:48pm

Pakistan

Bilawal salutes APS students on 6th martyrdom anniversary

“Being the son of a martyr, I and the PPP, stand in complete solidarity with these parents,” he maintained.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:47pm

Pakistan

PM due in Peshawar on Wednesday to inaugurate projects

Imran Khan would also open work on the Institute of Cardiology and the highrise flats scheme of the Provincial Housing Authority.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:44pm

Pakistan

Chairman Senate, CM Punjab call on Governor Sindh

They agreed that the legislation was a need of the hour to ensure timely completion of development projects and to protect the public funds.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:42pm

Pakistan

SC guidance to be sought on constitutional amendment for show of hands in Senate elections: Shibli

The government had already tabled a bill in the National Assembly on the basis of the apex court's short order in that regard, he added.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:38pm

Pakistan

PML-N revolting against democratic system to save corruption: Dr Gill

The whole nation had rejected the narrative of PML-N leadership against national institutions especially judiciary and armed forces, he said talking to a private news channel.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:36pm

Pakistan

PTI to win Senate election with overwhelming majority: Zartaj

The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) did not want to conduct the Senate polls because it was scared of its defeat, she said talking to a private news channel.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:34pm

Pakistan

PM Imran discussed important matters during phone call with HRH Prince Sultan

The Prime Minister conveyed warm sentiments for the custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman and the fraternal Saudi people.
Prince Salman conveyed condolences over the sad demise Late Chairman of Sultana Foundation Naeem Ghani.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 09:35pm

Pakistan

Petrol crisis: PM forms committee to review recommendations of commission report

The meeting was chaired by the Prime Minister to discuss 14-point agenda including report of petroleum commission.
During the meeting, Imran Khan formed a three member team – Federal Minister for Planning Asad Umar, Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood and Federal Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari – to review recommendations of commission’s report.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 09:34pm

Pakistan

State land worth billions of rupees retrieved in Lahore, Murree: Raja Basharat

Raja Basharat said the process of retrieving lands of cooperatives would be intensified further.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:21pm

USA

Canada has deal to get Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine within 48 hours of regulatory approval

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine received regulatory approval last week and Canada began using it for vaccinations on Monday.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:20pm

Europe

Italy reports 846 COVID-19 deaths on Tuesday, 14,844 new cases

Patients in hospital with COVID-19 stood at 27,342 on Tuesday, down by 423 from the day before.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:18pm

Europe

Merkel tells German lawmakers she is worried by coronavirus trend

Merkel warned the lawmakers that January and February will be very tough months in Germany, with the number of patients in intensive care rising further.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:16pm

World

Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 72.11 million, death toll at 1,623,547

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

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:14pm

USA

U.S. Senate leader McConnell acknowledges Biden winner of U.S. presidency

In remarks on the Senate floor, McConnell acknowledged the Democrats' win of the White House following Monday's formal result issued by the Electoral College.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:55pm

Commodities

Egypt's GASC buys 235,000 tonnes of wheat in tender

GASC said the purchase comprised 120,000 tonnes of Romanian wheat and 115,000 tonnes of Ukrainian wheat.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:51pm

Pakistan

APS martyrs sacrifice would not go waste: NA speaker

He noted that Pakistani nation would always stand with the bereaved families and would continue to share their inexpressible grieve.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:48pm

Pakistan

IRSA releases 67,300 cusecs water

According to the data released by IRSA, water level in the Indus River at Tarbela Dam was 1475.87 feet, which was 83.87 feet higher than its dead level 1386 feet.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:46pm

Pakistan

Christians playing important role in national progress: Governor Sindh

"Christian community was playing a leading role in education, health and many other important sectors", he said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:43pm

Pakistan

Opposition must shun negativity after failed Lahore show: Buzdar

The developmental politics will prevail in the country as the people foiled every conspiracy against the democratic mandate of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), he added.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:34pm

Europe

Turkey says Cavusoglu discussed U.S. sanctions with Pompeo in call

Washington on Monday imposed sanctions targeting Turkey's Presidency of Defence Industry (SSB), its chairman and three other employees. Cavusoglu "conveyed our reaction to the decision by the United States," the ministry said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:30pm

Business & Finance

Fed joins global club of peers in climate change fight

Powell has said that making sure the financial system is “resilient” against risks, including climate change, fits with the Fed’s congressionally assigned mandates.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:22pm

Asia

Malaysian PM Muhyiddin passes leadership test in final budget vote

Muhyiddin had also avoided a potential political crisis last month, after the opposition backed down from a plan to vote down the budget at the end of the policy stage debate.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:18pm

USA

Mexico's Lopez Obrador congratulates Biden on U.S. election win

Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Tuesday said he had sent a letter to congratulate Joe Biden on his victory in the U.S. presidential election.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:15pm

USA

Pompeo says Russia playing political games, stalling progress in Mediterranean

"All of these actions clearly demonstrate that if anyone is playing political games and trying to stall progress in regional conflicts, it is Russia, which only acts to advance its own interests to the detriment of the entire region,"

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:11pm

Forex

Mexican peso firms with focus on central bank bill debate

Ratings agency Moody's warned late on Monday that the reform would be "credit negative" for the sovereign because it would compromise the bank's autonomy.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:09pm

Forex

Canadian dollar firms as investors eye U.S. stimulus progress

The Canadian dollar was trading 0.1pc higher at 1.2741 to the greenback, or 78.49 U.S. cents, having traded in a range of 1.2736 to 1.2771.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:03pm

Europe

Facebook, Twitter face British fines if fail on harmful content

Facebook, Twitter and Chinese-owned TikTok face fines of up to 10% of turnover if they fail to remove and limit the spread of illegal content under laws proposed by Britain on Tuesday.
Tech platforms will also need to do more to protect children from being exposed to grooming, bullying and pornography, the government said, to ensure the safety of children online.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:02pm

Stocks

Wall St opens higher on stimulus hopes; Fed in focus

The S&P 500 opened higher by 18.92 points, or 0.52pc, at 3,666.41, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 103.22 points, or 0.83pc, to 12,543.26 at the opening bell.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:00pm

Stocks

TSX opens higher as energy, gold stocks rise

The Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index was up 94.4 points, or 0.54%, at 17,481.8.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:50pm

Pakistan

As PM promised much need anti-rape ordinance approved: Faisal Javed

He said that Prime Minister's Anti-Rape Crisis Cells would also be set up which would be responsible for conducting medico-legal examination within 6 hours of the incident.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 07:58pm

Pakistan

Saudi Ambassador calls on Interior Minister

Sheikh Rasheed said Pak-Saudi relations were based on love, mutual understanding and brethren-ship.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:48pm

Pakistan

Economic recovery gathers pace, industrial growth accelerating: Asad Umar

The minister said large scale manufacturing grew by 5.46pc in July to October 2020 as compared to same period last year.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:46pm

Pakistan

Machinery group imports reduced by 6.29pc

Textile Machinery imports decreased by 8.29pc, worth $140,512 thousand as compared to the imports of valuing $153,214 thousand of the corresponding period of last year.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:42pm

Pakistan

Realizing youth potential to help Pakistan achieve socio-economic development: Asad Qaisar

He said that the aforesaid objective could only be realized through providing access to high-quality education and skill development in the country.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:38pm

Pakistan

Dissension among PDM leaders setback of its movement: Gandapur

The nation was well aware of the movement's designs which aimed at saving the corruption of few families that would eventually failed, he said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:35pm

Pakistan

Bullion rates in Hyderabad gold market

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

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:29pm

Pakistan

COVID-19 claims 19 lives, infects 1520 others

He said that unfortunately 58 more patients died overnight lifting the death toll to 3,222 that constituted 1.6 percent death rate.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:28pm

Pakistan

Lt Gen Akhtar Nawaz appointed as NDMA Chief

Lt Gen Akhtar Nawaz will replace Lt Gen Mohammad Afzal, who took charge as the NDMA chairman in May 2019.
The role of NDMA remained crucial during COVID-19 and in natural disasters like floods this year in Sindh and Punjab areas.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:28pm

Pakistan

PDM moving towards its logical end: Dr. Firdous

She said 57 patients died and 597 new cases were reported in Punjab during the last 24 hours.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 07:27pm

Commodities

China data and vaccine optimism lifts copper price

Benchmark three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange (LME) added 0.3pc to $7,777 per tonne by 1210 GMT.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 07:03pm

Commodities

Bangladesh tenders to buy 50,000 tonnes wheat

New wheat purchase tenders have been issued this week by importers including Tunisia and Egypt.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:59pm

USA

After the White House, Trump faces uncertain future and legal threats

President Donald Trump is leaving the White House but he is not going to fade away quietly.
They include another White House run in 2024 or new pursuits in media. But they are clouded by potential legal jeopardy and business challenges.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:58pm

Forex

Sterling recovers as hopes for a Brexit deal are revived

Sterling dropped as low as $1.3135 last Friday when British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a no-deal was "very, very likely".

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:57pm

USA

Fresh off Electoral College win, Biden to stump in Georgia for Democratic Senate candidates

A day after the Electoral College confirmed his presidential victory, Joe Biden will travel to Georgia on Tuesday to campaign for two Democratic U.S. Senate candidates.
Biden’s narrow win in the Southern state in November’s presidential election completed its transformation from Republican stronghold to one of the country’s most competitive political battlegrounds.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 06:57pm

Europe

UK opposition calls for review of Christmas coronavirus rules relaxation

Under current plans, the four nations of the United Kingdom will relax restrictions to allow up to three households to meet at home for five days over Christmas.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:50pm

Europe

No trade deal still most likely Brexit scenario, UK's Johnson tells ministers

During an update for his cabinet team, Johnson "re-emphasised the desire to reach a free trade agreement, but not at any cost, and reiterated any agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK".

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:47pm

Commodities

Gold gains as COVID-19 cases fuel stimulus expectations

Spot gold was up 0.9pc to $1,844.10 per ounce by 1255 GMT, while U.S. gold futures rose 0.9pc to $1,848.70.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:43pm

Europe

Sweden registers 20,931 new COVID-19 cases, 153 deaths

The increase compared with 18,820 cases recorded in the corresponding period one week ago.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:40pm

Commodities

Wheat regains ground as Egypt tender keeps focus on Russian exports

Soybeans and corn edged lower as weather forecasts pointing to heavier rain next week in central Brazil easing concerns about persisting dryness in crop belts.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:36pm

Europe

Sweden failed to protect elderly in COVID pandemic, commission finds

When announced during the spring, the strategy was coupled with a goal to “ring-fence” the elderly from COVID-19.
In the commission’s first findings, it said the overall spread and previously known structural problems within the elderly care system, for which the current and previous governments were ultimately responsible, were to blame for the many deaths.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:35pm

Europe

Poland cannot ease COVID-19 restrictions yet, says PM

With Christmas approaching, Health Minister Adam Niedzielski urged Poles to stay at home over the festive period to avoid an increased infection rate before the vaccinations start.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:31pm

Energy

Oil rises above $50 as vaccine optimism counters new lockdowns

The latest snapshots of U.S. oil supplies are expected to show a mixed picture, with gasoline and distillate stocks rising and crude inventories falling.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:27pm

South Asia

UK PM Johnson to visit India in January to strengthen trade ties

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will travel to India in January, his first bilateral visit since taking office, to try to strengthen trade and investment ties and work together on tackling climate change.
Since leaving the European Union in January, Johnson wants to promote what he calls “global Britain”.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:27pm

Stocks

Most markets retreat as COVID-19 deaths rise, restrictions widen

The Qatari index ended almost flat. Commercial Bank topped the gainers on the benchmark, adding 1.7pc, while Qatar National Bank was the top loser, shedding 0.6pc.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:22pm

South Asia

J&K govt identifies 25-acre land for military colony for ex-servicemen

The Jammu and Kashmir government has identified 25 acres of land in the Budgam district, to set up Kashmir's first military housing facility.
The colony is being primarily set up to provide housing facilities for retired armed forces personnel and their families, in addition to catering to widows and families of deceased personnel.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 06:25pm

Business & Finance

Apple aims to make 30pc more iPhones in first half of 2021

Apple has been fighting for several years to become less dependent on the iPhone, which contributed to 40.8pc of overall sales during the last quarter.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:18pm

Pakistan

Govt decides to hold early Senate elections via ‘open voting’

The decision was taken by the government during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Through the open voting process, everyone will know who voted for who in the upcoming upper house polls.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:18pm

Pakistan

37 new coronavirus cases reported in Faisalabad

He said that at present, 78 patients including 24 confirmed patients were under treatment at Allied Hospital, while 29 including 9 confirmed patients were admitted to DHQ Hospital.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:16pm

Pakistan

Electric vehicle policy to be launched soon: SAPM

He said that the government was taking steps to enhance reliance on renewable energy as country was facing looming threat of the climate changes.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:13pm

Pakistan

Smog, cold weather forecast in Bahawalpur

According to a met report, maximum 17 centigrade and the minimum 07 centigrade temperature were recorded during last 24 hours.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:11pm

Pakistan

Wheat cultivation completed over 89.7 percent, grain sowed over 9.210mn hectares

The wheat sowing has been completed over 96.94 percent of the set targets in Punjab which is the largest grain producing province of the country, he added.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:06pm

Pakistan

PNSC achieves topline growth in first quarter

The National flag carrier trading under the name of PNSC is engaged in transportation of dry bulk and liquid cargoes globally.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:00pm

Technology

Samsung's four foldable smartphones to be Launched in 2021

Samsung competes with Google, OPPO, Vivo and Xiaomi to launch four foldable smartphones in 2021.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 06:00pm

Pakistan

National COVID positivity surges at 7.12 percent; 2,495 patients critical

It added that as per the gender analysis of the deceased around 70 percent were males with 77.5 percent over the age of 50-year with age median of 61-year.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:55pm

Pakistan

Rupee sheds 12 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. 160.2 and Rs. 160.8 respectively.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:52pm

Pakistan

KP govt selects site for Salt, Gypsum city in Karak district

He said that Salt and Gypsum City in the Karak district would facilitate the mine owners of the district with world-class infrastructure and utilities to set up their industries.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:47pm

Business & Finance

China central bank urges wider acceptance of cash as payments go digital

The central bank said payments of some basic public services such as medical treatment, water, electricity and gas fees have gradually migrated online.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:43pm

Pakistan

Bilawal meets Shehbaz in Kot Lakhpat Jail, discusses political situation

Bilawal Bhutto offered condolence to Shehbaz Sharif over the demise of his mother Begum Shamim Akhtar
Both the leaders discussed national politics and the political situation in country

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:32pm

Africa

South Africa tightens restrictions further as COVID-19 infections rise

Ramaphosa said the main reasons for the sudden rise in cases have been large gatherings and travel.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:36pm

Business & Finance

Adidas exploring strategic options, including sale, for Reebok

The decision will be announced on March 10, when the company officially presents its new strategy, Adidas said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:33pm

Europe

COVID-19 prevalence rose in London even as lockdown cut English cases, study finds

London will move into England's highest tier of coronavirus restrictions from midnight on Wednesday morning after an exponential rise in cases.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:29pm

Europe

Germany's confirmed coronavirus cases rise by 14,432

The reported death toll rose by 500 to 22,475, the tally showed.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:18pm

Business & Finance

Credit Suisse targets annual 10pc jump in wealth earnings to hit profit target

Credit Suisse also said it expected to turn around its asset management business in 2021 by focusing more on alternative and private market offerings.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:16pm

Europe

UK jobless rate rises again, redundancies hit record high

The number of redundancies reached a record high of 370,000 in the August-to-October period, although it decreased in October alone, the Office for National Statistics said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:11pm

Business & Finance

H&M's fourth quarter sales hit by second coronavirus wave

Citi analysts said they viewed the overall result as encouraging and reflecting "the path of transition H&M were undertaking pre-COVID".

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:08pm

Pakistan

Three including Rangers official injured in Karachi University cracker attack

Police confirming the attack said the men came on a motorcycle and fled after throwing the cracker at the gate.
The Sindh Rangers personnel was discharging his duties outside the Karachi University's Sheikh Zayed gate when he was attacked with a cracker.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 05:09pm

Business & Finance

Nokia wins 5G contract from Proximus Luxembourg

Nokia is replacing China's Huawei, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:06pm

World

New kinds of loans and bonds could fill $28 billion COVID funding gap: WHO

The WHO and GAVI vaccine alliance aim to provide poor and middle-income countries with diagnostic tests and vaccines through a fund known as the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator
Senior WHO adviser says financing is what stands between us and getting out of this pandemic as rapidly as possible

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:01pm

Stocks

Stocks steady as infection fears curb vaccine optimism

China's blue-chips, however, ended 0.2pc higher, helped by upbeat factory data which expanded for an eighth month in a row as an economic recovery gathered pace.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 05:00pm

Managed Funds

Euro zone bond yields dip as caution returns

Bond yields rose on Monday after an extension of trade talks between Britain and the European Union eased fears of a messy parting of ways between the two.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:46pm

Forex

Kenyan shilling weakens amid demand for dollars from importers

At 0820 GMT, commercial banks quoted the shilling at 111.50/111.70 per dollar, compared with Monday's close of 111.45/111.755.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:43pm

Forex

Euro holds firm as U.S. stimulus hopes weigh on dollar

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, rose slightly to 90.802.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:40pm

Stocks

Volkswagen shares gain as power struggle ends - for now

At the same time, Diess dropped his demand for an early extension of his contract, which runs until 2023, according to people close to the supervisory board.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:35pm

Commodities

Traders union UGA sees Ukraine's 2020/21 corn exports falling to 24mn T

"According to various estimates, we will harvest from 28 to 30 million tonnes (of corn) and export could amount to 24 million tonnes".

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:29pm

Commodities

Russia considering 15pc sunflower oil export tariff

Russia is also planning an export tax on wheat, as part of measures to stabilise rising domestic food prices.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:28pm

Europe

Russia reports 26,689 new coronavirus cases, 577 deaths

Authorities said 577 people had died overnight, taking the official death toll to 47,968.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:26pm

Energy

Russia's Rosneft discovers new gas field in Kara Sea

Russian energy giant Rosneft on Tuesday said it had discovered a new gas field in the Kara Sea with total reserves of 514 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas and 53 million tonnes of condensate.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:23pm

USA

Brazil reports 433 new coronavirus deaths in 24 hours

The South American country has now registered a total of 181,835 COVID-19 deaths and 6,927,145 total confirmed cases of the new coronavirus.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:21pm

Business & Finance

South Korea central bank concerned over weak job market, household debt

Two other board members added that targeted support to those, especially vulnerable to the coronavirus pandemic, should be continued.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:19pm

Europe

Swiss expect slower economic growth in 2021 as second COVID-19 wave hits

SECO said it expects the Swiss economy to grow by 3pc in 2021, slower than the 3.8pc rate previously forecast.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:16pm

Europe

UK reports 20,263 new COVID cases, 7-day total up 22pc

Since the start of the pandemic, the United Kingdom has recorded 1.870 million cases of COVID-19 and 64,402 deaths from the virus.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:14pm

USA

Pelosi, Mnuchin discuss COVID-19 relief, spending bill: Pelosi spokesman

Pelosi reiterated Democratic concerns about liability provisions in the COVID-19 relief bill, and told Mnuchin that remaining unresolved items in the spending bill could be resolved easily.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:10pm

Pakistan

Private schools association announce to reopen institutes from Jan 11

The statement from the administrations of private schools came forth amid the consistent rise in the number in COVID-19 infections and mortality rate.
Earlier in November, the federal government had announced to close all educational institutes from November 26 to December 24 amid resurge in COVID-19 cases across Pakistan.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:53pm

Business & Finance

Russia's Sberbank says proposed digital rouble may push lending rates higher

"Respectively, these same funds will no longer be available for lending, which will eventually lead to a liquidity deficit and as a consequence, rising rates," he said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:06pm

Pakistan

PDM failed to bring 'political revolution', opposition divided on resignations and long march: Qureshi

FM says If the opposition is serious, their resignations should reach the speaker by December 31
Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed an upward trend after opposition alliance's public gathering in Lahore: Qureshi

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:00pm

Commodities

Tunisia tenders to buy soft wheat, durum and barley

The origin was optional. The tender deadline is Wednesday, Dec. 16, they said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:04pm

Pakistan

Police defuse bomb planted in car near Bilawal House

The bomb was planted on the vehicle of a private eatery's owner.
The bomb disposal squad revealed that there was a magnetic chip installed in the car which has been disposed of.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 04:05pm

Europe

European regulator to approve COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 23

EMA said in early December it planned to decide on whether to approve the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine by Dec 29, and another being developed by Moderna by Jan. 12.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 04:02pm

Stocks

Indian shares end flat as investors book profits after sharp rally

The blue-chip NSE Nifty 50 index ended 0.07pc higher at 13,567.85 and the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex closed 0.02pc higher at 46,263.17.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:59pm

Business & Finance

Hungary central bank to hold news conference after rate decision

Hungarian central bank Governor Gyorgy Matolcsy and his vice governors will hold an online news conference at 1400 GMT after the bank's rate decision on Tuesday.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:57pm

Forex

Ugandan shilling trades slightly firmer on waning importer appetite

At 1023 GMT commercial banks quoted the shilling at 3,660/3,670, compared to Monday's close of 3,665/3,675.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:50pm

Europe

UK's Christmas plans will cost many lives, say top health journals

“We believe the government is about to blunder into another major error that will cost many lives,” the editorial said.
The joint editorial came a day after the government announced that due to a surge in cases London would be moving up into “High Alert” level, the most restrictive of England’s tiered system of rules to try to contain the virus.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:49pm

Business & Finance

Fall in Indonesia auto sales slows in November

Car sales plunged in May this year in the wake of coronavirus restrictions, but have since been increasing on a monthly basis.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:47pm

Managed Funds

Germany earned 7bn euros from new bonds this year

The average yield on new German bonds issued until end of November was -0.56 percent, resulting in revenues of 7.07 billion euros, according to the finance ministry document.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:43pm

Energy

UK GAS-Soaring LNG markets pull prices to near two-year highs

The within-day contract was 1.4 pence higher at 47 p/therm at 1013 GMT, up around 15pc in the last week and its highest since February 2019.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:40pm

Pakistan

President approves Anti-Rape Ordinance to expedite trials, ensure stern punishments

Special courts will be set up across the country and will dispose of the rape cases within four months.
The ordinance prohibits the identification of rape victims and makes it a punishable offense.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 03:36pm

Pakistan

2,459 new Coronavirus cases reported; 73 deaths in past 24 hours

The maximum ventilators were occupied in four major areas including Multan 54 percent, ICT 42 percent, Peshawar 26 percent and Lahore 33 percent.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 03:34pm

Europe

Spain's Reig Jofre to manufacture J&J's COVID-19 vaccine in Barcelona

Under the terms of the agreement, Reig Jofre said it will be responsible for the formulation, filling and packaging of the vaccine, while Janssen will handle distribution.
Shares in the Spanish group surged 17% in early trade to 4.41 euros ($5.35) a share.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:30pm

Financial

Japan's new stimulus package likely to boost GDP most strongly next fiscal year, minister says

The $708 billion stimulus package, which was endorsed by the cabinet last week.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:28pm

Financial

Japan must make fiscal reforms as it launches third extra budget, says finmin Aso

"It's true that underlying fiscal conditions will worsen due to the third extra budget," Aso told reporters after the budget was approved by the cabinet.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:26pm

Financial

Yields lower in weekly South African government bond auction

Yields were lower compared with the previous auctions.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:25pm

Pakistan

Opposition must use Parliament forum to resolve public problems: Sheikh Rasheed

He said the opposition parties should show prudence and foresight as parliament was the only forum where political issues can be resolved.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:22pm

Asia

Amid pandemic, Jakarta burials 61% higher in first 10 months of 2020

The Eijkman-Oxford study, led by biostatistician Dr. Iqbal Elyazar noted that “burial records indicated substantially increased mortality associated with the onset of and ongoing COVID-19 epidemic in Jakarta”.
Jakarta, a sprawling metropolis that is home to more than 10 million people, has officially recorded more than 154,000 cases of the coronavirus as of Dec. 14, with 2,963 deaths from COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:14pm

Pakistan

PM chairs meeting of federal cabinet

The meeting discussed various agenda items relating to development projects and other issues of importance, the PM office said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:21pm

USA

UN decries 66 massacres in Colombia in 2020

She stressed the need for the country to develop a public policy to dismantle "the criminal groups that succeeded paramilitary structures and their support networks," as was stipulated in the 2016 peace agreement.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 03:19pm

Pakistan

Razak appreciates role of FBR for reducing smuggling

He said that it has also created space for local industry to sell more products and hence encourage import substitution.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 03:20pm

Companies

PIA starting flights to another Saudi City

The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced that it will begin flight operations to and from Abha to facilitate Pakistanis living there.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:49pm

Pakistan

More public libraries to be established in province: Kamran Bangash

He expressed these views while visiting Directorate of Archeology and Library where he inspected various sections and reviewed performance of directorate.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:57pm

Pakistan

Maryam's threats expose her media freedom claims: Shibli

He said the Pakistan Tehreek-e- Insaf (PTI) government believed in ensuring provision of basic constitutional and fundamental democratic right of freedom of expression.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:55pm

World

UK's Johnson to visit India in first major trip as PM

Johnson's office highlighted the two countries' burgeoning trade and investment relationship, which it said is worth £24 billion ($32 billion, 26 billion euros) annually and supports more than half a million jobs.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:54pm

Stocks

European stocks waver at open

In initial trade, London's benchmark FTSE 100 shares index fell 0.2 percent to 6,519.14 points compared with Monday's closing level, as investors digested news of Britain's rising unemployment rate.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:52pm

Middle East

Jordan approves Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine

Jordan's green light for the Pfizer vaccine follows those of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia and came six days after Britain launched the world's first mass innoculation campaign using the vaccine.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:52pm

Industry

China exports 52 state-of-the-art fire trucks to Karachi

BEIJING: A Chinese company has exported a batch of 52 state-of-art fire-trucks to Karachi to enhance fire-fighting...

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:53pm

Rates.Bullion

Bullion Rates

KARACHI: Gold and silver rates in rupees per 10 grams prevailing in major cities on Monday (December 14, 2020)....

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:52pm

Energy

IEA trims oil demand forecasts on aviation woes

For 2021, the IEA said it had cut its oil demand growth estimate by 170,000 bpd to 5.7 mbpd "mainly because of another downgrade for jet fuel/kerosene demand."

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:51pm

Pakistan

PM chairs 7th meeting of SEZs' Board, says economic activities to enhance job opportunities

The meeting approved launching of online SEZ Management Information System whereby the approvals process would be digitalized and streamlined.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:48pm

Pakistan

Govt will not give NRO to PDM: Vawda

He said the people had rejected and buried the politics of PDM in Lahore public gathering as they had not participated in their political show.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:47pm

Pakistan

Sharif family trying to save their skin through PDM’s flop show: Shibli

The opposition parties, particularly the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, tried to create rifts among the institutions, he added.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:46pm

Pakistan

Zaidi urges opposition to resign from assemblies to save public lives from COVID-19

He said the opposition should desist from organizing public gatherings as coronavirus cases were rapidly increasing in the country.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:45pm

Prices of petrol, HSD see rise

ISLAMABAD: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has computed an increase in the prices of petrol and high...

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:44pm

Pakistan

Mercury in Karachi is expected to drop further: PMD

The met office said that weather in the city is expected to get colder at night and remain dry during the next 24 hours.
Temperature in Quetta was recorded -4 degrees Celsius on Monday.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:38pm

Companies

Hyundai Elantra to be Launched in Pakistan in 2021

Hyundai Nishat has started the assembly of its new Elantra sedan in Pakistan, and plans on launching it in the first quarter of 2021

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 02:35pm

Pakistan

Rise in infections: Hyderabad records highest COVID-19 positivity rate with 22.45 percent

NCOC says the second highest positivity ratio in the country was observed in Karachi which was 19.89 percent, followed by Peshawar with 19.04 percent
Province-wise, Sindh recorded the highest positivity ratio at 14.9 percent: NCOC

Published 15 Dec, 2020 02:17pm

Business & Finance

Japan provides Rs1.54bn to Pakistan to mitigate COVID-19 Impact

The agreement will help in the purchase of medical equipment, especially ventilators and oxygen cylinders.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 01:38pm

Technology

TPL partners with DMC, provide Vehicle Monitoring & Fuel Management Services

Prior to this collaboration, TPL Trakker signed agreements with the Sialkot, Gujranwala, Multan and Faisalabad Waste Management Companies, as well as the DG Khan Municipal Company, all from Punjab. DMC Korangi is the first DMC in Sindh to undertake this initiative.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 01:43pm

Middle East

US imposes sanctions on Turkey for purchasing Russian S-400 missile system

As of today, the United States is imposing sanctions on the Republic of Turkey's Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), under the auspices of the "Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act" (CAATSA).
These sanctions are predicated on Turkey's main defense procurement entity knowingly engaging in a significant transaction with Rosoboronexport (ROE), Russia’s main arms export body, by procuring the S-400 surface-to-air missile system.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 01:42pm

Industry

Economy Recovers as Cement, Consumer Goods & Cars Sale Rise Amidst COVID Wave: SBP

Sales for cement, consumer goods and cars rise as Pakistan encounters the second wave during the first quarter of financial year 2021, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 01:18pm

Business & Finance

Industry driving Pakistan’s Economic growth, says Azhar after LSMI output increase

"At a time when the global economy is in a deep recession, Industry is driving economic growth and recovery in Pakistan,” said Azhar

Published 15 Dec, 2020 01:08pm

USA

Putin congratulates Joe Biden on U.S. election victory - Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday congratulated Joe Biden on his victory in the U.S. presidential election.
“For my part, I am ready for interaction and contact with you,” the Kremlin cited Putin as saying in a statement.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 01:01pm

Europe

11 killed in fire at nursing home in Russia

It added that firefighters were able to put out the flames by morning.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:54pm

World

UK unemployment rate rises to 4.9%: official data

The number of UK redundancies meanwhile soared by a record 370,000 in the three months to October, despite an easing in the last month of the period.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:52pm

Business & Finance

Pakistan's LSMI Output Increase 6.6pc in October

Meanwhile, the overall output of LSMI increased by 5.46 percent for July-October 2020-21 as compared to July-October 2019-20.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 12:53pm

World

Putin congratulates Biden, says ready for 'collaboration'

The Russian leader wished the US president-elect every success, adding that: "For my part, I am ready for collaboration and contacts with you," according to a Kremlin statement.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:51pm

Pakistan

Maryam Nawaz among top PML-N leaders booked for causing damage to Minar-e-Pakistan's sanctity

The FIR includes 15 counts of violations, including a violation of coronavirus standard operating procedures and the Sound System Act
PHA has imposed a Rs10 million fine on the PDM for damaging the park

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 12:37pm

Stocks

Miners drag Australian shares lower on reports of China restricting coal imports

Pureplay coal exporters fell sharply, as well. New Hope Corp ended 2.7% lower, China-controlled Yancoal Australia shed 8.4%, and Whitehaven Coal lost about 6%.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:32pm

South Asia

Kabul's deputy governor killed in a blast in Afghanistan

On Tuesday, a bomb attack in Afghanistan's capital city killed the Deputy Governor of Kabul.
According to security officials, a sticky bomb was attached to his car by unknown assailants, leading to his death.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:15pm

Companies

Hyundai Motor nominates Genesis head as new co: CEO

Lee Won-hee, existing president and co-CEO, will focus on securing a competitive edge in future automotive businesses.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:29pm

Pakistan

40 percent Pakistanis say they will not get COVID-19 vaccine if it becomes available: Survey

The percentage of people saying they would vaccinate themselves has decreased from 62 percent in November to 60 percent in December
Survey reveals 34 percent respondents are worried about side effects, 22 percent are against vaccines in general and 15 percent believe a vaccine would not be effective

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:30pm

Commodities

Gold firms as US stimulus progress weighs on dollar

Investors now await policy meetings of the Fed starting on Tuesday and the Bank of England on Thursday.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:25pm

Companies

VW CEO Diess stays on to lead new executive team but wins no contract extension

After the meeting, the non-executive supervisory board also said in a statement the carmaker would cut overhead costs by 5% and procurement costs by 7% over the next two years.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:24pm

Europe

Russia's Lavrov says Bosnia's peace deal must not be changed

Upon his arrival, Lavrov first visited Milorad Dodik, the Serb member of the country's three-man presidency, in the Serb Republic's government office just outside the capital Sarajevo.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:21pm

Europe

UK reports 20,263 new COVID cases, 7-day total up 22%

8 The country reported 232 new deaths from the disease, with the seven-day total rising to 2,984, almost unchanged from the previous seven days.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:19pm

World

France's Macron says mention of climate in constitution will be put to referendum

"The reform concerns the ideas of biodiversity, environment and tackling climate change under the article 1 of the Constitution", Macron said after a meeting on the issue in Paris.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:18pm

Commodities

Dalian iron ore edges up in choppy trade, SGX benchmark extends fall

China, the world's biggest steel producer, churned out 87.66 million tonnes of crude steel last month, down from 92.2 million tonnes in October but up from 80.29 million tonnes in November 2019.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:14pm

Stocks

EMERGING MARKETS-Asian stocks slip on virus case surge; ringgit weakens

Thailand's 10-year government bond yields are down 4 basis points at 1.22%.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:12pm

Forex

Turkish lira weakens slightly after US unveils sanctions

The measures, which received a bipartisan welcome from the US Congress, were announced under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) - the first time the act has been used against a fellow member of the NATO alliance.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:08pm

Forex

Yuan eases to 2-week low after PBOC injects record medium-term funds

Separately, markets mostly looked past solid economic data as traders have broadly reached consensus that a recovery in the world's second-largest economy from coronavirus disruption remains on track.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:06pm

Asia

Taiwan sees role as arms supplier for West as launches new warship

The United States is Taiwan's main foreign source of weapons. Most countries shy away from arming the island, wary of angering Beijing and loosing valuable commercial contracts with the world's second-largest economy.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:03pm

Commodities

Palm snaps three-day rally on weaker soyoil; exports rise

Palm oil is affected by price movements in related oils as they compete for a share in the global vegetable oils market.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 12:01pm

Technology

Apple plans 30% increase in iPhone production for first half of 2021: Nikkei

This would mark a 20% rise from 2019 though the target will be regularly reviewed and revised in response to any changes in consumer demand, according to the report.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:59am

Stocks

Indian shares fall as investors book profits after sharp rally

8 The Nifty Bank Index fell 1.05%, with ICICI Bank declining 1.5%. The stock was among the top drags to the Nifty 50.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:54am

Africa

Gunmen kill 28, burn 800 houses in Niger attack blamed on Boko Haram

An attack blamed on Boko Haram killed 28 people and burned 800 homes in an attack in Niger’s Diffa region on Saturday.
The Islamist militant group has been waging attacks in the region around Lake Chad since 2009, causing about 250,000 people to flee, according to U.N. figures.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:52am

World

Kabul's deputy governor killed in a blast in Afghanistan

Mahboobullah Mohebi, the deputy governor was travelling with his security guards when the blast occurred. Two guards were injured in the blast.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:53am

Business & Finance

Fed will be tested in 2021 as vaccines boost US economic outlook

If markets push up long-run interest rates a bit to reflect expectations for future faster growth, the Fed likely wouldn't change course.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:49am

Forex

Australian dollar retreats from 2-1/2 year highs

Australian government bond futures were flat, with the three-year bond contract steady at 99.804 and the 10-year contract unchanged at 99.982.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:46am

Companies

Sanofi renews deal with WHO to fight tropical diseases, sleeping sickness

Sanofi said its new five-year commitment with the WHO would see Sanofi provide financial support of $5 million per year.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:44am

Energy

Pakistan close to buying Jan LNG cargoes at rates above spot market

Pakistan LNG, the state-run procurement agency, has not received a bid for a Jan. 12-13 delivery cargo, they said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:43am

Business & Finance

China commerce ministry says Jan-Nov FDI up 6.3% y/y in yuan terms

For November alone, FDI rose 5.5% from a year earlier to 98.7 billion yuan.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:41am

Forex

South Africa's rand falls as virus surge weighs on risk appetite

The move was aimed at controlling a spike in the country's coronavirus infections since the start of December, with reported cases hovering around 8,000 per day in the last few days, from around 3,000 in November.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:39am

Financial

Credit Suisse postpones 10%-12% return on tangible equity ambition

The bank last year set an ambition for a return on tangible equity (RoTE) ambition of approximately 10% for 2020, with an aim to reach an RoTE above 12% in the medium term.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:38am

Pakistan

Pakistan reports 2,459 new coronavirus cases, 73 deaths in 24 hours

There are currently 48,008 active cases across the country.
The country also reported 1,614 recoveries from the virus.

Updated 15 Dec, 2020 11:38am

World

In past 30 years: 508 PSOs among 1,700 cops killed in IIOJK

Police say majority of the PSOs lost their lives while protecting the person or a politician they were deployed with
Police official says a fresh security advisory is on cards for the PSOs given the fact that many political leaders are taking part in rallies and campaigning in the wake of ongoing District Development Council

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:26am

Sports

Juve awaiting Dybala response on contract offer, says Agnelli

Dybala joined Juventus from Palermo in 2015 and has scored 97 goals for the club, winning eight major trophies, including five Serie A titles.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:20am

USA

Canada announces new Covid-19 aid package for developing nations

The program, called the ACT-Accelerator, could seek to ensure equitable global distribution of vaccines and other eventual treatments.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:17am

Business & Finance

Pakistan's Millat to export 600 Tractors to Angola

The first consignment of 150 tractors has already been delivered.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:13am

World

Pentagon chief receives Covid-19 vaccine

The Pentagon announced last week that the secretary and top military officers would get vaccinated voluntarily and publicly to help spread the message about the treatment's effectiveness and safety.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:15am

World

Germany pressuring EU to speed up vaccine approval: report

Berlin's irritation is more acute as BioNTech is a German firm and the country is preparing to go into partial lockdown from Wednesday, with non-essential shops and schools to close.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:13am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks open lower on US losses, travel campaign halt

In Tokyo trading, airline companies were lower with Japan Airlines falling 2.88 percent to 1,955 yen and ANA Holdings dropping 6.66 percent to 2,305 yen.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:12am

Sports

Most in Japan oppose holding Olympics in 2021: polls

Postponing the Games and devising coronavirus countermeasures has proved a logistical nightmare for organisers, and carries a steep price tag.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:11am

World

Biden says Trump 'refused to respect the will of the people'

"The flame of democracy was lit in this nation a long time ago. And we now know nothing, not even a pandemic or an abuse of power can extinguish that," Biden said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:09am

Stocks

Hong Kong shares start marginally higher

The Hang Seng Index edged up 0.11 percent, or 29.41 points, to 26,418.93.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:06am

Sports

Australia's Green will make Test debut if fit after concussion: Langer

"He could. He could handle anywhere. He's tough, mentally tough, physically tough, got good footwork, he's got the game for it," Langer said of Wade.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:04am

Europe

Grassed up: hapless drug suspect's phone reveals stash to cops

"Much to his horror, a video appeared on his screen which showed a significant cannabis farm in operation," said Sergeant Steve Passey.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 11:01am

Sports

'Bring it on' - Australia plot India's downfall under Adelaide lights

Ajinkya Rahane, who will assume the captaincy when Kohli leaves, is a lock in the middle order alongside Vihari.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:57am

Asia

Fiji, Tonga batten down as cyclones gather pace

"It makes it a little tricky to know exactly how close Yasa will get to Fiji -- direct hit is the current thinking," Weatherwatch managing director Philip Duncan said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:55am

World

Column slamming Jill Biden's 'Dr' title sparks anger in US

Northwestern University, where Epstein had taught until 2003, was quick to distance itself from him, saying in a statement that the article "casts unmerited aspersion on Dr Jill Biden's rightful public claiming of her doctoral credentials and expertise."

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:53am

Sports

Laxman and 'Monkeygate': five classic Australia v India clashes

The hosts were set 323 to win, a score never before successfully achieved in a fourth innings run chase at the Adelaide Oval, with Australia falling a nail-biting 31 runs short despite a battling 60 from Shaun Marsh.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:49am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks end morning down

The Hang Seng Index slipped 0.65 percent, or 170.92 points, to 26,218.60.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:48am

World

US takes Sudan off sponsors of terror blacklist

The move opens the way for aid, debt relief and investment to a country going though a rocky political transition and struggling under a severe economic crisis exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:44am

Business & Finance

China's domestic spending continues to grow in November

8 However, experts have cautioned the figure could be higher due to large numbers of people in China's informal workforce.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:42am

Pakistan

Dense fog blankets Punjab, disrupts road traffic and flight operation

At least seven domestic and international flights were cancelled at Lahore Airport while six flights were delayed
Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway along with several other sections have been closed due to low visibility

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:42am

World

Draft EU rules propose mammoth fines, bans for tech giants

The EU has also ordered Apple to pay billions of euros in back taxes to Ireland, but that decision was quashed by the EU's highest court.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:40am

World

Teachers should receive vaccine priority: UNICEF

Assuming that schools are not the main driver of community transmission, UNICEF said in its statement that unfortunately, classes currently remain closed for "nearly one in five schoolchildren globally -- or 320 million children."

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:38am

World

Accounting for carbon footprint changes view of human progress: UN agency

UNDP administrator Achim Steiner noted that "humans wield more power over the planet than ever before.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:37am

Business & Finance

Preparations underway to increase POL rates by Rs 6

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has sent a summary of the increase in prices of petroleum products to the Petroleum Division.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:36am

Technology

China to open giant telescope to international scientists

"The risk-averse culture that was once predominant has given way to a more entrepreneurial culture."

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:31am

World

Senior Republicans accept Biden as president-elect, reject talk of overturning election

As a few of President Donald Trump’s most loyal backers contemplated a last-ditch effort to reverse his Nov. 3 election defeat, a growing number of Republicans appeared ready to defy Trump and recognize Biden as the winner more than a month after the vote.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:31am

Business & Finance

Facebook, Twitter face British fines if fail on harmful content

“We are entering a new age of accountability for tech to protect children and vulnerable users, to restore trust in this industry, and to enshrine in law safeguards for free speech,” Britain’s Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:28am

World

Exclusive video: Smugglers beat Rohingya on trafficking boat

"So we attacked the crew since we had nothing to lose. It was a life-or-death situation... we threatened to kill the smugglers if they didn't drop us on land."

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:28am

World

'Democracy prevailed,' Biden says after U.S. Electoral College confirms his win

“In this battle for the soul of America, democracy prevailed,” Biden said in a prime-time speech from his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware. “Now it’s time to turn the page, as we’ve done throughout our history – to unite, to heal.”

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:24am

Sports

NZ's de Grandhomme out of Pakistan tests, waiting on Williamson

The coach added that captain Kane Williamson was still expected to join the team for the second and third Twenty20 matches against Pakistan after he withdrew from the second West Indies test to be with his pregnant wife.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:22am

Pakistan

Pakistan condemns terrorist attack on oil tanker at Saudi port in Jeddah

FO said these attacks threaten peace and security of Saudi Arabia, as well as the region.
Pakistan has reiterated its full support and solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:08am

Sports

Thiem breaks 'Big Three' hold on Grand Slams in virus-hit 2020

Two weeks later the pair met again in the US Open final but this time it was the Japanese who emerged victorious, picking up her third Grand Slam trophy.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:19am

Real Estate

China's Jan-Nov property investment rises 6.8% y/y

Property sales by floor area rose 1.3% for January-November, compared with a 1.8% decline in the first 10 months, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said in a statement.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:18am

World

Senior Republicans accept Biden as president-elect, reject talk of overturning election

Any effort to try to persuade Congress not to certify the Electoral College count on Jan. 6 must earn majority approval from both chambers of Congress that day.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:16am

Energy

Jet fuel prices take flight as vaccine roll-outs spur hopes of more air travel

Against this backdrop, European jet fuel margins rose above $4 a barrel for the first time since March this month, after falling deep into negative territory in April-May at the height of regional lockdowns.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:14am

Business & Finance

China industrial output rises 7% y/y in Nov; retail sales up 5% y/y

That compares with 6.9% growth in October.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:13am

World

NZ PM Ardern defends climate change goals after Thunberg scoffs at emergency declaration

Ardern on Monday told reporters she welcomed Thunberg's contribution to the debate on climate, but said the emergency declaration covered only a portion of New Zealand's climate change goals.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:11am

World

'Race against time': First Americans vaccinated as US death toll passes 300,000

US top infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci told MSNBC on Monday that Americans with no heightened risk factors could expect to get vaccinated by late March or early April.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:05am

Stocks

Nikkei slips as rising COVID-19 infections sap risk appetite

Capcom rose 1.4% while GungHo Online Entertainment addde 1.6%. Gree gained 3.2% and Koei Tecmo added 1.6%.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:03am

Financial

Mexican lawmakers to debate divisive central bank bill on Tuesday

8 In Heath's previous tweets criticizing the bill, he appeared to suggest it would unfairly favor Banco Azteca.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 10:01am

Commodities

China Nov aluminium output hits daily record high

Output was 3.18 million tonnes last month, the National Bureau of Statistics said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:59am

Energy

China Nov crude throughput hits daily record as private refiner starts new unit

Meanwhile, PetroChina Co's Yunnan refinery shut a 260,000 bpd crude processing facility on Dec. 5 for a 50-day overhaul. Sinopec's Qingdao and Qilu facilities are scheduled to resume operations later this month after maintenance.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:58am

World

South Korea warns of tougher coronavirus restrictions if rules ignored

"Considering the weight and impact of Level 3 distancing, we first need to level-headedly look back at whether all of us are properly implementing the current level."

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:55am

Commodities

Australia says it will pursue all avenues on reports of China coal restrictions

The council encouraged the "Australian and Chinese governments to work together to resolve these issues and restore stability to the long-term trading relationship," she said in a statement.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:53am

Technology

Apple supplier Wistron puts India plant damage at up to $7mn

Apple said it was sending staff and auditors to the site and was cooperating with police in their investigation.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:51am

Financial

China central bank injects 950bn yuan of medium-term loans, rate unchanged for 8th straight month

In the same online statement, the PBOC also said it has injected another 10 billion yuan via seven-day reverse repos, with the rate unchanged.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:49am

World

Mexico reports 5,930 new coronavirus cases, 345 more deaths

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

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:47am

Energy

US shale oil output to drop 136,000 bpd to 7.44mn bpd in Jan: EIA

Production is expected to decline in all regions except Haynesville.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:45am

USA

Argentina exceeds 1.5 million coronavirus cases: Health Ministry

However, medics insist that precautionary isolation measures and robust virus tracking will be needed for the near future.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:43am

Asia

South Korea reports 880 new coronavirus cases

The latest figure was up from 718 reported on Monday, a day after it hit a record daily spike of 1,030.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:42am

Technology

Facebook, Twitter face British fines if fail on harmful content

Dowden said the framework would give large digital businesses "robust rules" to follow.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:39am

World

Pelosi, Mnuchin discuss COVID-19 relief, spending bill: Pelosi spokesman

Pelosi reiterated Democratic concerns about liability provisions in the COVID-19 relief bill, and told Mnuchin that remaining unresolved items in the spending bill could be resolved easily, Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill wrote on Twitter.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:38am

World

US court hears appeal against order blocking TikTok app store ban

Nichols issued an order in a suit filed by ByteDance after US District Court Judge Wendy Beetlestone in Pennsylvania earlier blocked the same restrictions set to take effect on Nov. 12.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:36am

Companies

Airbus urges compromises on Brexit, transatlantic tariffs

Faury said Airbus would maintain its reduced output of 40 A320-family jets a month into early 2021, but did not address the timing or scale of any output increase.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:34am

Stocks

Asian stocks dip as investors curb vaccine enthusiasm

Australian S&P/ASX 200 lost 0.12% in early trading while Japan's Nikkei 225 futures fell 0.13%. E-mini futures for the S&P 500 rose 0.21%.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:32am

World

Airlines warned over safety as jets return from pandemic storage

Airlines have developed training programmes for pilots re-entering service ranging from theory refreshers to multiple simulator sessions and supervised in-flight checks, depending on the length of absence.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:30am

Business & Finance

Brazil's TIM, Telefonica and Claro win Oi mobile assets in $3.2bn bid

Telefonica Brasil, the local unit of Spain's Telefonica SA , will pay roughly 5.5 billion reais of the base price and 179 million reais in transition services, it said in a separate filing.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:28am

Business & Finance

China's factory recovery steps up as export, consumer demand grows

"We expect 7% GDP growth in 2021 from 1.7% in 2020," said Iris Pang, ING's Chief Economist for Greater China, by email.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:26am

Commodities

Indonesia targets 13mn tonnes processed coal per year by 2024

The government is encouraging coal companies to seek to add value to Indonesia's predominantly lower-rank coal by moving from selling raw coal to downstream activities, Arifin said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:24am

Financial

Australia's central bank sees lowering unemployment as national priority

Domestically, the economy had bounced back strongly in the third quarter, after a record tumble in the second, and further growth was expected in the current quarter.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:22am

World

US Attorney General Barr steps down as Trump election defeat confirmed

In May 2019, Barr tapped federal prosecutor John Durham to investigate Obama-era intelligence and law enforcement officials for possible crimes in connection with their early stage probe into whether Trump's 2016 presidential campaign colluded with the Russian government.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:20am

Commodities

Chicago wheat rebounds from 3% fall on Russian export tax plan

The previous session, amid expectations of stronger demand for US supplies after leading exporter Russia moved to limit exports.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:18am

Stocks

Asian stocks weaken as infection worries curb vaccine enthusiasm

Market expectations are growing that the Fed will further ease monetary policy by expanding its bond buying programme, as US lawmakers struggle to agree on a fiscal stimulus package.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:15am

Commodities

South Korea's Nov coal imports fall 14.5% y/y

Total coal imports are composed of steam coal for power generation and coking coal for steel production.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:14am

World

US Homeland Security, thousands of businesses scramble after suspected Russian hack

Because the attackers could use SolarWinds to get inside a network and then create a new backdoor, merely disconnecting the network management program is not enough to boot the hackers out, experts said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:12am

Financial

Australian banks better prepared for crisis than in 2008: RBA

Australian banks are also profitable, he added. In 2019, the combined profits of the banking system totalled A$34 billion ($25.6 billion) while their return on equity, at 11%, exceeded their cost of equity.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:09am

Stocks

South Korean shares slip as coronavirus cases continue to surge

Investors are taking a wait-and-see stance ahead of the US Federal Reserve's monetary policy meeting, said Seo Sang-young, an analyst at Kiwoom Securities.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:07am

World

Pfizer vaccines reach 141 of 145 locations slated for first day deliveries

US officials are hoping Moderna Inc's COVID-19 vaccine, which is currently being reviewed by US regulators, will be available for distribution as early as the beginning of next week, Perna said.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:05am

Stocks

Australia shares fall as miners slump on China scrutiny over iron ore prices

Financials ticked down 0.2% even after the country's banking regulator said banks would no longer have to hold a portion of their profit back starting next year, raising prospects for higher dividends.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:02am

World

China reports 17 new COVID-19 cases vs 16 a day earlier

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in China now stands at 86,758. The death toll remains unchanged at 4,634.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 09:01am

Stocks

Australia shares poised to slip at open, miners likely to drag

The local share price index futures fell 0.3%, a 16.2-point discount to the underlying S&P/ASX 200 index close.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:58am

Forex

Dollar heavy amid stimulus progress, pound buoyed by Brexit hopes

The Aussie rose 0.1% to 75.372 US cents after touching the highest since June 2018 at 75.780 on Monday.

Published 15 Dec, 2020 08:56am

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