News Archives for Latest - 2020-12-21

Pakistan

Pakistan bans flights from UK in the wake of new coronavirus strain

Temporary restriction is being placed on inbound travelers from UK (whether direct or indirect) into Pakistan to be effective from midnight 22nd December until midnight 29th of the month, reads the notification.
Transit passengers, who have travelled to UK, from destinations other than UK will be allowed to travel into Pakistan.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 08:03pm

Pakistan

19 more COVID-19 deaths, 644 new cases reported in Sindh: CM

This was stated by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah in a statement issued here from CM House on Monday.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 12:05am

Forex

South Africa's rand slides on fears over new virus strains, travel bans

The rand was 1.3% weaker at 14.7275 per dollar, slightly better than its session-low 14.9100 hit in low-liquidity.
The rand, set to end 2020 where it began the year, near the 14.00 per dollar mark.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:07pm

Forex

Latin American currencies hit by new coronavirus strain caution

Investors rush towards dollar safety.
Mexican peso slumps to near 1-month low.
Chilean peso tracks copper declines.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:05pm

Europe

Regulator clears way for use of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Europe

EU Commission expected to give final go ahead later on Monday.
Roll-out expected to start from Sunday.
Approval comes after UK, US begin mass inoculations.
EU has ordered up to 300 mln doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:03pm

Stocks

Wall Street drops on fears over new coronavirus strain

Travel stocks drop on disruption fears.
Big banks jump after Fed's stress test results.
US Congress set to vote on $900 bln relief bill.
- Tesla slips from record high in its S&P 500 debut.
Indexes down: Dow 1.29%, S&P 1.86%, Nasdaq 1.76%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:44pm

Europe

Swiss ban UK, South Africa travellers, believe mutant virus is circulating

The Swiss cabinet joined several countries in suspending travel for Britons after Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the mutated variant.
We know too little about the coronavirus, and we know even less about this mutant form.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:34pm

Forex

C$ falls by most since October as new virus strain clouds outlook

Canadian dollar touches its weakest since Dec. 2 at 1.2955.
Price of US oil falls 4.2%.
Flash estimate: Canadian wholesale sales up 1% in November.
Canadian bond yields ease across a flatter curve.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:34pm

Forex

Russian rouble falls past 75 vs dollar on weaker oil prices, coronavirus concerns

The rouble has been on a recovery path since the US presidential election in early November and hit a four-month peak against the dollar last week before tumbling on Monday.
The rouble was down 2.3% to 75.03 against the dollar.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:28pm

Energy

US natgas futures ease on lower demand forecasts

Front-month gas futures lost 1.5 cents, or 0.6%, at $2.685 per million British thermal units.
Data provider Refinitiv projected demand, including exports, would fall to an average of 121.6 bcfd this week from 124.3 bcfd in the prior week.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:26pm

Commodities

EU + UK soft wheat exports 12.08mn tonne by Dec. 20, down 17pc

That was 17% below the volume cleared by the same week last year.
EU and UK 2020/21 barley exports had reached 3.58 million tonnes, down 8%, while maize imports stood at 7.91 million tonnes, down 24%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:24pm

Commodities

EU + UK 2020/21 soybean imports 6.94mn tonne by Dec. 20, up 4pc

EU and UK 2020/21 rapeseed imports had reached 3.24 million tonnes, down 11%, while soymeal imports stood at 8.63 million tonnes.
Palm oil imports were at 2.88 million tonnes, up 8%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:22pm

Forex

US dollar gains on concerns about new coronavirus strain

New coronavirus strain overshadows US stimulus deal.
US dollar rises to 10-day high.
Pound drops close to 2% as virus disrupts freight.
Euro, Aussie, NZ dollar fall as risk-off mode reigns.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:19pm

Stocks

TSX falls as energy stocks plunge on coronavirus concerns

The energy sector plunged 3.7%, as both US crude and Brent crude fell about 4.2%.
Oil producer Vermilion Energy Inc fell 6.8%, the most on the TSX, and the second biggest decliner was airlines Air Canada, down 6.8%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:11pm

Commodities

Sugar, coffee, cocoa slide as new COVID-19 strain sinks markets

March London cocoa slipped 0.1% to 1,647 pounds per tonne.
March raw sugar fell 0.3% to 14.39 cents per lb, having hit a one-week high.
March arabica coffee was down 2% to $1.2455 per lb.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:07pm

USA

Americans to start receiving relief checks next week: Mnuchin

Mnuchin said people are going to see this money by the beginning of the next week.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:10pm

South Asia

Reporter shot dead in Afghanistan

No group has claimed the murder so far but the Taliban denied responsibility.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:07pm

Stocks

New COVID-19 strain trips Mideast markets

Saudi Arabia suspends international flights.
State-backed Meraas plans buyout of DXB Entertainments.
Dubai sees biggest intraday fall in nearly 8 months.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:05pm

Europe

BioNTech, Pfizer 'ready' to deliver vaccines across EU

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has proven to be 95 percent effective in global trials where two doses are injected three weeks apart.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:06pm

Sports

Messi dragged ill feeling from failed Barca exit into this season

Messi caused consternation at Barca when he sent the club a burofax (official notice) that he wanted to leave in August.
Everything that happened before the summer, how the season ended, then the burofax and everything else... I dragged everything into the start of the season a bit.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:00pm

Stocks

Tesla shares fall ahead of S&P 500 debut after hitting record on Friday

Tesla's shares were recently down around 4% in pre-market trading after closing at a record high of $695 on Friday.
Silverblatt said that for every $11.11 Tesla moves, the S&P 500 changes 1 point, while the S&P's 2021 price/earnings ratio will rise to 22.6 from 22.3.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:58pm

Commodities

Gold turns negative as dollar strengthens on new virus strain

Silver slips after hitting more than 3-month high.
Dollar hits over one-week high, off multi-year lows.
European shares fall as new coronavirus strain shuts Britain.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:51pm

Pakistan

PSX loses 406 points to close at 43,333 points

As many as 404 companies transacted shares in the stock market, 154 of them recorded gain and 224 sustained losses.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:54pm

Pakistan

Gold prices increase Rs.50 to Rs112,500 per tola

The price of ten gram gold also increased by Rs 43.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:52pm

Pakistan

Rupee sheds 63 paisas against US dollar

Buying and selling rates of dollar in the open market were recorded at Rs160 and Rs160.9 respectively.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:51pm

Money & Banking

Banco BPM, Credit Agricole revise terms of Agos partnership

The changes will give Agos additional opportunities to further expand its client base and improve its cost of funding.
The changes to an 2018 agreement include an up to 24-month extension - to July 2023 - of a deadline for Banco BPM to exercise a put option on a 10% stake in Agos at the previously agreed strike price of 150 million euros ($183 million).

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:33pm

Pakistan

PSX honours 3 Pakistani companies for inclusion in Forbes ‘Asia’s Best Under A Billion’ List

The companies that have made it to this distinctive list included Feroze1888 Mills Limited, The Searle Company Limited and Systems Limited.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:37pm

Middle East

Amidst new virus strain, Saudi Arabia suspends all international passenger flights for a week

On Sunday, Saudi Arabia suspended all international passenger flights for one week, in response to a new strain of the coronavirus.
Entry and transit in the Kingdom through both land and sea ports has also been suspended, and could potentially be extended by an additional week.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:23pm

Pakistan

Food group exports post 2.59pc growth in November

During month of November, 2020, the exports of rice grew by 14.44 percent as 458,104 metric tons of rice valuing $231.238 million exported.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:37pm

Pakistan

Cars production decreases 3.73pc during July-November 2020-21

During the July-November 2020, as many as 50,527 cars were manufacture against the production of 52,489 units, showing negative growth of 3.73 percent.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:36pm

Pakistan

CDNS achieves collection of Rs 33 billion by Dec, 17

The directorate has also revised and increased the gross target of Rs1570 billion for the fiscal year 2019-20.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:35pm

Pakistan

Chines Ambassador meets COAS Bajwa at GHQ: ISPR

Matters of mutual interest, bilateral defence cooperation and regional security situation including China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) were discussed during the meeting, says ISPR.
China’s ambassador also appreciated Pakistan’s role for peace and stability in the region.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 07:34pm

Stocks

New COVID-19 strain inflicts market pain, triggers volatility

European shares, S&P 500 futures down.
New coronavirus strain shuts much of UK, overshadows US stimulus.
Pound hit, Brexit talks drag on with no deal.
Oil, copper prices slide; dollar higher.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:29pm

Africa

Egypt needs to do more to help private sector, World Bank says

Exports remain below those of competing countries even after Egypt cut the value of its currency by about half in November 2016.
Despite Egypt's growing domestic market and proximity to international markets, Egypt is yet to attract strong FDI inflows.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:25pm

Business & Finance

Singapore gets Asia's first batch of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine

Singapore Airlines, which carried the vaccines on board one of its freighters from Belgium.
Singapore is the first Asian country to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech shots after it said last week that it had approved the companies' vaccine.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:22pm

Companies

Aramco to bring Google Cloud services to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, under its Vision 2030 reform plans, has encouraged foreign investment particularly in the technology sector and courted Silicon Valley players.
The collaboration taps into rapidly expanding demand for cloud services in Saudi Arabia,

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 07:22pm

USA

Key facets of the $900 billion U.S coronavirus relief bill

On Sunday, bipartisan lawmakers in the United States Congress released a long-awaited $900 billion coronavirus relief bill, which is expected to be signed into law by President Trump.
This relief package will be combined with an additional $1.4 trillion in federal funding and tax provisions to facilitate federal agencies through the end of September.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 07:17pm

Companies

Vodafone set to stay in Egypt after STC deal collapses

Talks on sale of Vodafone Egypt stake terminated.
Vodafone CEO met Egyptian President at weekend.
$2.4 billion deal was initially struck in January.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:51pm

Pakistan

PML-N MPA submits resignation to speaker Punjab Assembly

“PML-N MPAs from NA-120, PP-137, PP-138, and PP-139 should also resign from their assembly seats,” says Ahmed Sharaqpuri.
The lawmaker has openly opposed PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif saying that he cannot support the narrative of the party chief for targeting national institutions.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:45pm

Commodities

Copper falls as new virus strain hits markets

Equities and oil prices fell and the dollar strengthened as countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Israel and Canada closed travel links with Britain.
Benchmark copper on the London Metal Exchange (LME) was down 1.4% at $7,871 a tonne.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:49pm

Energy

Oil giant Shell announces charge up to $4.5bn in Q4

Shell will present full-year earnings in early 2021.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:50pm

Forex

New coronavirus strain hits pound as investors flee to dollar

Pound drops close to 2% as virus disrupts freight.
Brexit talks deadlocked.
New coronavirus strain overshadows US stimulus deal.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:48pm

Energy

Oil falls $3 as new virus strain prompts demand worries

Brent and WTI fell more than 5% earlier in the session.
It was the biggest daily fall since June.
New virus strain shuts much of UK, overshadows US stimulus.
Countries impose travel curbs on UK routes.
US rig count rises to highest since May -Baker Hughes.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:44pm

South Asia

South Korea tightens Seoul curbs after record death toll

At least two Seoul residents died of the disease while waiting to be hospitalised this month, according to city authorities.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:42pm

Middle East

Saudi Arabia, Oman to close borders for one week over new COVID strain

Fellow Gulf Arab state Oman will close its land, air and sea borders for one week starting Tuesday, state television reported on Monday.
In Kuwait, the civil aviation authority added the United Kingdom to its high-risk list of countries on Sunday, meaning all flights from it are banned.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:41pm

Middle East

Israeli spyware software used by Saudi Arabia, UAE to hack Al Jazeera journalists: Report

According to a cyber-security watchdog, dozens of journalists at the Al Jazeera Media Network were targeted this year by advanced Israeli spyware, linked with the governments of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Researchers from the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto published a report on Sunday, detailing how the Pegasus spyware infected the cellular devices of 36 journalists, producers, anchors and executives at the media network.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:27pm

Europe

More than 40pc of Spaniards willing to get COVID-19 vaccine

While 28% of respondents in the survey by the Centre for Sociological Studies (CIS) said they would not take the vaccine immediately.
The EU drug regulator is expected to decide on Monday on approval for the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech after the shot was authorised in several countries.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:39pm

South Asia

China calls Trump cyberattack claims 'a farce'

Cyber experts said the attack could have far-reaching impact and take months to unravel.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:36pm

Forex

Bitcoin slumps 6pc as new COVID-19 strain upsets wider markets

The cryptocurrency was last down 5.5% at $22,156 after hitting a record $24,298.04 on Sunday.
Smaller coins like ethereum and XRP, which usually trade in tandem with bitcoin, fell 5.9% and 9.2% respectively.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:37pm

Europe

Controllers see major European air transport disruption from UK shutdown

Eurocontrol Director General Eamonn Brennan said there had been 900 daily flights between Monday and Saturday last week.
We'll see a significant impact on the network as a result of the new (coronavirus) variant in the UK.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:35pm

Energy

Trump administration cuts size of Arctic land offered for oil auction

The decision was announced late Friday by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the agency managing the oil lease sale.
The BLM said it shrank the size of the lease sale after reviewing comments from drilling opponents worried about the herd of caribou that uses the coastal plain.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:33pm

Technology

Watchdog highlights shortcomings in EU rules to curb tech companies

The Regulatory Scrutiny Board, which reviews policies and legislation proposed by the European Commission.
It should consider the negative consequences of curtailing the size advantages following from network economies and economies of scale for consumers.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 06:33pm

Europe

Turkish court sentences Kurdish ex-MP to 22 years in jail

Ocalan's PKK, which is blacklisted by Ankara and its Western allies as a terror group, has been waging an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:28pm

South Asia

Japan New Year rituals fall victim to virus surge

Some sites stay open all night to allow worshippers to ring in the New Year at midnight.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:22pm

Pakistan

CM Punjab Usman Buzdar tests positive for COVID-19

"Buzdar has suspended all his work engagements and has been advised by his doctors to rest," tweets CM Punjab's media team.
Usman Buzdar is currently self isolating at the CM house, says the team.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 06:24pm

Europe

World closes borders to Britain as new coronavirus strain breeds panic

More countries closed their borders to Britain on Monday over fears of a highly infectious new coronavirus strain, heightening global panic.
A slew of countries have already suspended travel, including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Ireland, Belgium, Israel and Canada.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:14pm

Europe

Russia denies role in US cyber attacks

Putin's spokesman said public debate in Washington about the breaches "has nothing to do with us".

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:15pm

Middle East

Israel parliament to vote on bill to delay election call

If a 2020 budget is not passed, Israel's parliament, the Knesset, would dissolve, with new elections held as early as March.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:12pm

Business & Finance

EU conditionally approves Fiat Chrysler and PSA merger

The statement said that the new firm would also facilitate access for competitors to its van repair and maintenance networks.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:09pm

Europe

Nationalists win vote in Bosnia's divided Mostar

According to HDZ head Dragan Covic, the candidate who headed the party's election list, Mostar doctor Mario Kordic will become mayor.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 06:07pm

Europe

Russia, Rwanda send military support to Central Africa Republic to quell election violence

Security forces and U.N. peacekeepers have been battling rebels who have occupied towns and roads outside the capital.
Russia, which has previously sent arms and military contractors to CAR as it seeks to increase its influence in Africa, has not commented on reports in the media it had sent in troops and military aid.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 06:08pm

Europe

Russia reports record jump in new virus cases

Russia has reported a much lower death rate compared to other badly hit countries, raising concerns that authorities have downplayed the figures.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:55pm

Sports

De Kock wants to safeguard future cricket tours to S.Africa

The players were adhering to a strict regime of room service meals, social distancing and training in small groups pending a Covid test on Tuesday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:52pm

Industry

NEPRA to make Competitive Wholesale Electricity Market operational by April 2022

NEPRA approved the Detailed Design and Implementation Plan of Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) to make the competitive Wholesale Electricity Market (WEM) operational in Pakistan by April 2022.
The Authority will be conducting a webinar on the 22nd of December to discuss the future of WEM in Pakistan.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:53pm

South Asia

Thai PM blames migrant workers for market coronavirus outbreak

On Monday Prayut blamed the outbreak on factories employing illegal migrant workers, who he accused of illegally crossing the porous Myanmar-Thailand border.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:48pm

Pakistan

KP govt approves Peshawar-DI Khan motorway project

The motorway will be 360 kilometers long and will have six lanes and 19 Interchanges at various points.
The project is estimated to cost 276 billion rupees and it is expected to be completed within four years.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:34pm

Europe

More travel bans as UK isolated over virus variant

At least 1.68 million people have been killed by Covid-19 since the virus first emerged in China a year ago, with more than 10,000 people still dying daily.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:35pm

South Asia

Indian farmers vow to carry on protests despite cold, deaths

Tens of thousands of Indian farmers, protesting over agricultural laws that they say threaten their livelihoods, have vowed to carry on their around-the-clock sit-ins despite cold weather that has already led to some deaths among them.
Since late November, when thousands of farmers arrived in trucks and tractors to camp out on the borders of New Delhi, nearly 30 people have died, several of them as a result of freezing weather, farmers said.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:31pm

Europe

Coronavirus toll at 1100 GMT Monday

On Sunday, 8,066 new deaths and 539,656 new cases were recorded worldwide.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:33pm

Middle East

Saudi halts international flights over virus variant

The suspension does not apply to international aircraft currently in the kingdom, which will be allowed to leave, SPA said.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 05:32pm

Pakistan

Nation needs to save environment as country's forest cover is less than world's average: PM

Previous rulers did not paid heed to saving the environment from destruction rather they only thought of the next elections
We have destroyed 70 percent of the green cover while Ravi River has become a centre point of throwing garbage: Imran

Published 21 Dec, 2020 04:58pm

Asia

Global arms sales by top 25 companies up by 8.5 percent in 2019

For the first time, a Middle Eastern firm appears in top 25.
After the US, China accounted for the second largest share of 2019 arms sales by the top 25 arms companies, at 16 percent.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 05:15pm

Life & Style

Ariana Grande announces engagement, shows ring on Instagram

Grande included a close-up shot of the ring in the announcement.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 04:57pm

Stocks

London stocks sink as new coronavirus strain shuts UK

The FTSE 100 touched its lowest since Dec. 2 in early trading, but clawed back some of its losses to trade down 1.2% as the pound's 2% drop limited a fall in the exporter-heavy index.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 04:07pm

Stocks

European shares tumble as new coronavirus strain grips UK

Worries around the new virus strain also saw investors look past an agreement over a $900 billion fiscal aid package in the United States that will be set to vote on Monday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 04:03pm

Commodities

Russian export prices for wheat rise due to delays at customs

IKAR added that wheat for supply in February was quoted at $260 per tonne. IKAR also downgraded its forecast for Russia's 2020/21 wheat exports earlier on Monday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 04:01pm

Energy

Italy's Eni, Thailand's PTTEP win offshore exploration license in UAE

The concession expires in 35 years if the exploration phase, which can last for up to nine years, is successful.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:58pm

Pakistan

JUI-F chief, 20 other politicians have serious life threats, warns interior minister

Rasheed says Fazlur Rehman and other political leaders have been informed about the threats posed to their lives and precautionary measures
Pakistan Democratic Movement will take part in the upcoming Senate polls: Minister

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:59pm

World

India suspends all flights from the UK as concerns grow over new virus strain

Britain is one of the 23 countries that India shares an "air bubble" with, as part of temporary bilateral arrangements after regular international flights were suspended after the pandemic hit.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:56pm

Business & Finance

Pakistan’s TIOs are ‘beginning to deliver results,’ says Dawood

The advisor informed that 44 TIOs were selected under the reformed system, and “this is now beginning to deliver results.”

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:55pm

Financial

UK 2-year gilt yield hits record low after new COVID crackdown

The yield on two-year gilts - which is sensitive to speculation about Bank of England interest rates - fell as low as -0.161% before recovering to -0.138% at 1017 GMT, down about six basis points on the day.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:54pm

World

Germany to Iran: Don't waste chance for rapprochement with U.S

Iran should avoid taking any tactical steps that would make it hard for Biden to reverse President Donald Trump’s decision to quit the deal, says German Foreign Minister.
“This chance, this last window of opportunity, must not be wasted.”

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:46pm

PM meets Saudi envoy, says Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have historic ties

Both dignitaries discussed bilateral cooperation and the ways to tackle the COVID-19 situation collectively
Imran, Saeed Al-Maliki resolve to further strengthen longstanding Pakistan-Saudi Arabia fraternal ties

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:13pm

Middle East

Rockets fired at U.S. embassy land inside Baghdad's Green Zone, damaging compound

At least eight Katyusha rockets landed in Baghdad’s heavily fortified Green Zone in an attack targeting the U.S. Embassy, causing some minor damage on the compound on Sunday.
The U.S. Embassy condemned the attack and urged all Iraqi political and governmental leaders to take steps to prevent such attacks and to hold accountable those responsible.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 02:59pm

World

Climate change could create millions of migrants in Pakistan by 2050

Ove 45 million people are are expected to migrate by 2050 in India.
Nearly 63 million people in South Asia could be forced from their homes by 2050.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 02:55pm

Business & Finance

PIA cancels flight operation to KSA, after latest restrictions

He said that these flights would remain canceled till Saudi Arabia opens their airspace for international flights.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 02:25pm

Pakistan

ECP to conduct by-polls on vacant Sindh, Balochistan seats on Feb 16

The seats fell vacant after deaths of elected leaders.
The nomination papers will be submitted on December 23 and scrutiny will be conducted on January 4, whereas, appeals will be reviewed from January 6 to 14, reads the ECP notification.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 02:00pm

There is no external pressure on Pakistan to recognise Israel, says Qureshi

FM says no dialogue could be held over ties with Israel till peaceful resolution of Palestine issue as per the aspirations of the Palestinian people
UAE leadership has assured that the visa restrictions have been imposed on temporary basis due to the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic: Qureshi

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 02:00pm

Business & Finance

No planned gas load shedding in the country: Petroleum Division

Moreover, the city gate loads in SNGPL system have increased 9 percent in one week as severe winter sets in; SSGC is facing similar increase in pressure drops in parts of Karachi and Quetta.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 01:48pm

Business & Finance

COVID-19 Measures: SBP defers over Rs 657bn under Refinance Scheme

Under its Rozgar scheme for protecting businesses and employees working with them from the impact of COVID-19, the central bank has so far approved Rs 238.2 billion for 2,958 businesses.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 01:20pm

World

New COVID variant: Over 30 countries cut air travel ties with Britain

The European Union has called a crisis management meeting after Britain’s PM Boris Johnson ordered a wholesale lockdown on London
Britain's Health Secretary declares the new strain is out of control

Published 21 Dec, 2020 01:16pm

Stocks

China stocks firm on policy support; Hong Kong slips

SMIC said on Sunday that being put on a US trade blacklist would pose a significant adverse impact to its research and development in its 10-nanometer and more advanced chip technology.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 12:13pm

Commodities

Palm oil snaps 3-day rally, higher exports limit losses

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

Published 21 Dec, 2020 12:10pm

Forex

Yuan eases to 1-week low on dollar bounce

China will maintain policy support for its economic recovery, avoiding a sudden shift in policy, to help keep economic growth within a reasonable range in 2021, the Xinhua news agency said on Friday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 12:08pm

Companies

Restructuring Plan: PIA to shift departments from Karachi to Islamabad

At present, PIA has a fleet of 29 aircraft with 14,500 employees and the airline is bearing Rs 2.6 billion monthly human resource and Rs 24.8 billion annual expenses.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 12:07pm

World

India records 24,337 new coronavirus cases

A total of 145,810 people in India have died of COVID-19, with 333 deaths in the past 24 hours, the ministry said.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 12:06pm

Stocks

Thai stocks, baht slump as new virus cluster threatens economic growth

The South Korean won and the Singapore dollar fell about 0.3% each, while the Taiwanese dollar was the only exception, moving up 1.3%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 12:01pm

World

Flights from Britain to Poland to be halted on Monday night

Countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, El Salvador.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:58am

Stocks

Australia shares slip as Sydney virus spike stoke border curb worries

Software firm WiseTech Global fell 6.5% to be the biggest loser among tech stocks on reports of a short-seller attack.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:54am

World

Roche says faricimab meets goals in trial against rivals' Eylea

More than half of participants in the faricimab personalised dosing arms.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:52am

Life & Style

Islamabad gets its first drive-in movie theater amid coronavirus pandemic

Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Muhammed Hamza Shafqaat said that this new initiative received a 'massive response'.
Movies will be screened in the evenings from Friday to Sunday and will follow a week-wise theme ranging from classics to action, science fiction, fantasy, and animations.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:53am

Forex

South Africa's rand drops on fears over new virus strains, travel bans

South Africa said on Friday a virus strain similar to the one reported in the United Kingdom was driving a second wave in the country, prompting some countries to include South Africa in their travel bans.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:50am

Europe

Britain, EU tell each other to give way in 'difficult' trade talks

With less than two weeks before Britain leaves the EU’s orbit, both sides are calling on the other to move to secure a deal and safeguard annual trade in goods from tariffs and quotas.
The EU wants to be able to impose trade barriers in the event that Britain changes its regulations in the future and undercuts the bloc’s market of 450 million consumers.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:45am

Sports

Pakistan captain Babar to miss first New Zealand test due to injury

Pakistan have included uncapped batsman Imran Butt in their 15-man squad for the first test.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:46am

Financial

Black on Wall Street: Slow progress in building the numbers

Logan also serves as chairman for the National Association of Securities Professionals, a professional society for minorities in the securities and investments industries.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:44am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks close lower with wary eyes on virus

The benchmark Nikkei 225 index fell 0.18 percent, or 48.97 points, to 26,714.42.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:41am

World

UN peacekeepers say C.Africa rebel push 'under control'

The 74-year-old, who came to power in a coup in 2003 before himself being overthrown in 2013, said last Tuesday that he accepted the court's decision.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:36am

Boosting trade: Istanbul-Tehran-Islamabad train to commence operation next year

The ITI framework was launched in 2009 and exists as a project under the Economic Cooperation Organization
The rail route covers a total distance of 6,500 kilometers and is cost and time efficient

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:37am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks slip in morning

The Hang Seng Index eased 0.21 percent, or 54.41 points, to 26,444.19.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:34am

World

Between Brexit and coronavirus, UK togetherness is fraying

In Dublin, republican Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said Brexit had raised "fundamental questions around the wisdom and the sustainability of the partition of our island".

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:30am

Sports

CAF Confederation Cup fixtures

CAF Confederation Cup last 32, first leg fixtures this week

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:29am

World

Japan sets record $52 billion military budget with stealth jets, long-range missiles

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s government approved a ninth consecutive rise in military spending on Monday, funding the development of an advanced stealth fighter and longer-range anti-ship missile to counter China’s growing military power.
The Ministry of Defense will get a record 5.34 trillion yen ($51.7 billion) for the year starting in April, up 1.1% from this year.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:17am

Technology

Tesla's rise made 2020 the year the US auto industry went electric

Tesla's market capitalization surged above $600 billion, making the once wobbly startup founded by billionaire Elon Musk worth more than the five top-selling global vehicle making groups combined.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:22am

Pakistan

KP govt closes all educational activities at madrassahs

Any violators of the restriction will be penalised under the relevant law.
KP reported 235 coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:23am

Business & Finance

Pakistan exploring new trade avenues, to achieve $26bn exports target

The Advisor said regional trade and economic integration would play a huge role in enhancing connectivity with Central Asian States and Afghanistan.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:20am

Technology

SoftBank-backed face-scan firm rebrands US unit to add distance after blacklisting

Weeks before the blacklisting, but after Reuters reported its export restrictions, CloudMinds was granted a $1 million to $2 million loan under a pandemic aid program, showed Treasury data from August.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:16am

USA

U.S. Congress reaches deal on COVID-19 aid package, plans votes for Monday

U.S. congressional leaders reached agreement on Sunday on a $900 billion package to provide the first new aid in months to an economy and individuals battered by the surging coronavirus pandemic.
The pandemic will stand as the largest crisis facing Biden’s new administration, although signs of hope have emerged as the United States has begun vaccinating people against the highly contagious respiratory disease.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:11am

Technology

Australia regulator chief Sims says Google and Facebook draft laws fair, critical for media future

"We thought they were comfortable with that so we were very surprised that they're still complaining about that," Sims said in an interview on Monday for Reuters Next.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:12am

Technology

US lawmakers back $1.9 billion to replace telecom equipment from China's Huawei, ZTE

It also includes about $250 million for additional FCC support for telehealth and $1 billion for a NTIA tribal broadband connectivity grant program.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:08am

Business & Finance

Indian court dismisses Future Group's plea against Amazon.com

In October, Amazon had won an injunction to halt Future's deal with Reliance from a Singapore arbitrator both sides had agreed to use in case of disputes.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 11:05am

Business & Finance

Pakistan to launch Billion Tree Tsunami Honey Project

Under the project, the National Bank will provide loans and NAVTEC will provide training to the citizens, whereas, the Ministry of Science and Technology will set up honey laboratories across the country.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:56am

World

Deadly Fiji super cyclone sparks disease fears

SUVA, (Fiji): Disease threatens to worsen an already desperate situation in Fiji, an official warned Sunday, where...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 11:00am

World

Biden introduces environment team to tackle ‘existential threat’

WASHINGTON: President-elect Joe Biden on Saturday introduced key members of his environmental team and said his...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 11:00am

World

Eight dead in Philippine floods as thousands flee homes

MANILA: Nearly 10,000 people were evacuated from their homes in the northeastern Philippines as heavy rain across ...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 10:59am

World

Taiwan sends ships, aircraft as Chinese carrier passes island

TAIPEI: Taiwan’s navy and air force were deployed on Sunday as a Chinese aircraft carrier group led by the...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 10:58am

World

Thailand to test 10,000 after virus outbreak linked to seafood market

BANGKOK: Thailand will test more than 10,000 people for coronavirus after an outbreak linked to its biggest seafood...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 10:58am

World

Britain, EU tell each other to give way in trade talks

LONDON: Britain insisted on Sunday that the European Union should budge to open the way to a new, post-Brexit trade...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 10:57am

World

North Korea to redevelop flagship tourist resort

SEOUL: Pyongyang plans to redevelop its flagship Mount Kumgang tourist complex into an international resort, a year...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 10:57am

World

Biden chief of staff says hack response will go beyond 'just sanctions'

"I think there's still a lot of unanswered questions about the purpose, nature, and extent of these specific attacks," he said.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:46am

Saudi Arabia suspends Umrah pilgrimage over new COVID-19 variant

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) suspended all international flights for one week
Pakistan International Airlines also announced the cancellation of flights to and from Saudi Arabia

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:48am

Sports

Tiger and son Charlie finish five shots back in Orlando

During his team's closing 10-under-par 62, Charlie rolled in a birdie at the par-four 10th and then unleashed a vintage low-uppercut Tiger fist pump that the golf world has seen countless times before.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:45am

World

Saudi Arabia suspends international flights and land and sea entry for a week

The source added the entry to the kingdom through land and sea ports will be also suspended for a renewable week.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:43am

Stocks

Australia shares poised to slip as Sydney travel curbs stoke recovery fears

The states of Victoria and Queensland, and the Northern Territory, banned people arriving from Sydney as of Monday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:40am

Middle East

Qatar approves Pfizer and BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine emergency use

Qatar is due to receive the first shipment of the vaccine produced by Pfizer Inc and BioNTech on Monday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:38am

Sports

Benzema brilliance helps Real Madrid win fifth game in a row

The French forward got Real off to a flying start by scoring in the sixth minute, trapping a chipped pass from Rodrygo with his right foot and calmly finishing into the net with his left for a fifth goal in his last four matches in all competitions.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:34am

Business & Finance

KSA suspends international flights amid COVIS-19 second wave

A statement issued by the Interior Ministry said that those who have come from any European country or country where the pandemic has spread since December 8, 2020, should take the following steps.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:27am

World

UK PM Johnson to chair emergency response meeting on COVID travel, freight

Transport minister Grant Shapps urged Britons, especially hauliers, not to travel to ports in Kent in southern England, warning on Twitter that "we expect significant disruption in the area".

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:31am

Pakistan

Pakistan Army soldier martyred in firing by terrorists in Balochistan's Awaran operation

"Due to intense exchange of fire with terrorists during operation, Lance Naik Muhammad Iqbal was injured and immediately evacuated to Karachi," the ISPR statement said.
The army conducted a search/clearance operation upon receipt of intelligence information regarding the presence of terrorists and their facilitators in Jatt Bazar.

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 10:31am

Sports

Ko cruises to five-shot victory in LPGA Tour season finale

The tournament capped an 18-event LPGA season that was shut down from mid-February through July because of COVID-19.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:30am

World

McConnell says deal reached on $900 billion COVID-19 relief bill

"More help is on the way," McConnell said on the Senate floor of the measure to provide assistance to address a number of coronavirus-related issues.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:28am

Business & Finance

Tesla's Elon Musk asks about converting "large transactions" to bitcoin

Shares of Tesla rose to a record high on Friday in a frantic day of trading as investors geared up for the electric carmaker's much anticipated entrance into the benchmark S&P 500 index on Monday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:25am

World

European medicines regulator to review Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

The goal of the 27-member European Union is nonetheless to reach coverage of 70% of its 450 million people.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:23am

Companies

Lockheed Martin inks $4.4bn deal to acquire Aerojet Rocketdyne

Lockheed said it will pay $56 per share for Aerojet Rocketdyne, a 33 percent premium to Friday's closing price. The purchase price will be reduced to $51 per share after the payment of a pre-closing special dividend, Lockheed added.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:20am

Forex

Dollar climbs, sterling sinks as coronavirus lockdowns stoke haven demand

Even so, the mood could shift quickly, NAB's Catril warned, forecasting that the pound could climb to $1.50 next year if a last-minute Brexit agreement gets done.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:17am

Energy

Brent oil may seek support in $51.05-$51.24 zone

It is too early to confirm a reversal of the uptrend, simply based on the drop from the Dec. 18 high of $52.48. Resistance is at $51.83, a break above which could lead to a gain to $52.15.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:14am

Stocks

Australia shares edge lower as virus cases resurge in Sydney

Australian technology stocks added 1.2% with Afterpay gaining over 5% and Tech One rising nearly 2%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:10am

Companies

Shell sells 26.25% stake in Queensland LNG facilities to infrastructure fund for $2.5bn

Shell, advised by Rothschild & Co, put a minority stake in the asset up for sale earlier this year as part of a wider divestment plan.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:08am

Commodities

Palm oil may retest resistance at 3,474 ringgit

Support is at 3,426 ringgit, a break below which could cause a fall into the 3,348-3,381 ringgit range.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:05am

Pakistan

PML-N Senator Kalsoom Perveen passes away from coronavirus

She was on a ventilator at a private hospital after her condition deteriorated.
- "She did not only serve the people in underdeveloped areas of Balochistan but also played an important role in Pakistani politics," Sanjrani said.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:49am

World

Mexico's confirmed coronavirus death toll surpasses 118,200

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

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:04am

Financial

Japan to increase issuance of 40-year JGBs from April

The announcement was in line with a Reuters report last week.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 10:01am

Energy

Oil prices fall amid worries over new coronavirus strain

The negative sentiment also overshadowed a weekend deal among US congressional leaders for a $900 billion coronavirus aid package.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:58am

Energy

US oil may test support at $47.49

It is hard to categorise the current drop, which is tentatively regarded as a correction against the rise from $45.69.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:56am

World

Argentina, Chile to suspend flights from Great Britain over COVID-19 concerns

Chile's government said non-resident foreigners who had been in Great Britain over the last 14 days will be banned from entering the country.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:53am

World

South Korea reports record daily coronavirus deaths, raids

Seoul city is considering going further than the national rules to ban gatherings of more than five people, starting the day before the Christmas holiday, Yonhap news agency reported.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:50am

Commodities

Spot gold may rise to $1,930

After the moderate consolidation on Dec. 18, gold could have accumulated enough bullish momentum to rise towards $1,930.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:48am

Commodities

CBOT soybeans may test resistance at $12.34

Support is at $12.25-3/4, a break below which could cause a fall to $12.15-3/4.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:46am

Companies

PetroChina strikes big gas find in China Xinjiang's Junggar basin

Near the discovery, PetroChina is drilling three more exploration wells - Letan 1, Tianwan 1 and Tianan-1.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:43am

Stocks

Japan stocks slip from 29-1/2-year high on virus spike, new strain in Britain

The top gainers on the Topix 30 index were Daikin Industries Ltd, up 2.23 %, followed by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc, gaining 1.52%.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:41am

Commodities

Soybeans hit more than six-year high on global supply concerns

Markets were concerned about dry weather in South America that could curtail soybean and corn production.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:38am

South Asia

India plans tough annual targets for state firms to boost valuations

The government, which is trying to rein in its fiscal deficit, wants state-run firms to focus on improving market capitalisation and dividend payouts from the 2021/22 fiscal year, starting April, as well as ramping up the sale of non-core assets, the sources said.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:35am

USA

US Senate votes to extend government funding to avoid shutdown

The measure has already passed the House of Representatives and now heads to President Donald Trump to sign into law.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:33am

Commodities

Mitsubishi Motors to focus on hybrids in SE Asia, part of regional 'electrification' push

The gasoline-fueled Xpander car has been sold in the region since 2017, starting with Indonesia and later the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:30am

Commodities

CBOT corn may rise into $4.41-1/2 to $4.43 range

The resistance is identified as the 176.4% projection level of an upward wave 3 from $4.20-1/2. This wave is expected to travel into a range of $4.45-1/2 to $4.47-3/4.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:28am

Commodities

Dalian iron ore jumps nearly 9% on strong demand bets, supply worries

Spot iron ore also surged, with SteelHome consultancy's data showing the benchmark 62% material at $164.50 a tonne on Friday, the highest on record.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:20am

World

Five Nigeria soldiers killed, dozens of civilians kidnapped

KANO: Five Nigerian soldiers were killed by Islamic State-aligned jihadists and dozens of civilians were kidnapped ...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 09:23am

World

Putin hails Russia’s spies, visits intelligence HQ

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday hailed the country’s “courageous” spies as he visited the...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 09:23am

World

Rockets fired at US embassy land inside Baghdad's Green Zone, damaging compound

Sirens blared from the embassy compound inside the zone, which houses government buildings and foreign missions.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:15am

Commodities

CBOT wheat may retest support at $6.05

The third wave labelled c is expected to travel into a range of $5.99-1/4 to $6.02-1/4. A break above $6.11 could lead to a gain into $6.14-3/4 to $6.18 range.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:13am

Companies

Amazon shuts New Jersey facility till Dec. 26 on virus spike among workers

Some staff, elected officials and unions in recent months have said Amazon put its employees' health at risk by keeping warehouses open during the pandemic.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:09am

Forex

Australia, NZ dollars fall on tougher COVID-19 lockdowns

Australian yields fell, with 10-year bonds last trading at 0.969%, after closing at 0.99% on Friday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:07am

USA

What's in the $900 billion US COVID-19 aid package?

Minority-owned businesses: $12 billion for minority owned and very small businesses that struggled to access earlier Payroll Protection Program financing.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 09:03am

Commodities

China's crude steel output expected to rise in 2021

He estimated 2021 iron ore demand to decline 1.2% to 1.38 billion tonnes, following a 9.2% rise in 2020.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:58am

Commodities

Copper slips further below $8,000 as rally runs out of gas

Metals were also under pressure as the greenback climbed against major peers amid tightening COVID-19 lockdowns globally.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:56am

Companies

Tokyo Steel to raise product prices for January by up to 16%

Prices of H-shaped beams will go up by 12% to 93,000 yen a tonne.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:54am

World

Australia's most populous state says COVID-19 cases at 3-day low

All arrivals enter mandatory hotel quarantine on their arrival, which Australia credits as central in it avoiding high coronavirus numbers compared with other developed nations.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:50am

Commodities

Gold scales 1-1/2-month high on US stimulus deal boost

Speculators upped their bullish positions in COMEX gold and silver contracts in the week to Dec. 15, data showed on Friday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:48am

Business & Finance

Japan's record $1 trillion budget highlights COVID-19 challenge to growth, debt

The 106.6 trillion yen ($1.03 trillion) annual budget also got a boost from record military and welfare outlays. It marked a 4% rise from this year's initial level, rising for nine years in a row, with new debt making up more than a third of revenue.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:44am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks down with wary eyes on virus

The dollar fetched 103.40 yen in early Asian trade, against 103.28 yen in New York late Friday.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:41am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks start slightly lower

The Hang Seng Index slipped 0.29 percent, or 75.98 points, to 26,422.62.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:38am

Stocks

Stocks, pound, oil sink as virus surge trumps stimulus deal

Oil prices also sank as the new containment measures hammered expectations for travel over the Christmas period, with the discovery of a mutated and more infectious strain of the coronavirus in Britain also leading several governments to ban flights from the country.

Published 21 Dec, 2020 08:35am

BR Research

Interview with Fawad Anwar - MD, Al-Karam Textile Mills (Pvt) Ltd.

‘Pakistan at crossroads of value-added textile growth’ Fawad Anwar is the Managing Director of Al-Karam Textile...

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:45am

BR Research

Oil finds momentum

Oil prices finally seem to be attracting the kind of support they needed to break the 10-month long $50 a barrel...

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:40am

BR Research

Peace and economy

As the year draws to a close, one of the most significant regional developments during the year, which also has...

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:35am

BR Research

Cotton import: momentum slowing?

It’s that time of the month again. Pakistan Bureau of Statistics monthly import report card has been released, and...

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:30am

BR Research

Is Pakistan embracing technology?

At the SDPI’s annual sustainable development conference held last week, advisor to the PM, Dr Ishrat Hussain...

Published 21 Dec, 2020 07:25am

Rates.The Rupee

Your rupee last week

KARACHI: Following currency fluctuations took place in foreign exchange rates during the last week. (December 14 to...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Rates.Banks

Returns on Profit and Loss Sharing Investment Bank Accounts (JAN TO JUNE 2020)

KARACHI: Comparative table of returns being given banks on their Profit and Loss Sharing Investment Accounts and ...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

The Weather

KARACHI: The weather report on Sunday (November 20, 2020) and the forecast for Monday (November 21, 2020)....

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

Minister directs formulation of Pakistan Education Policy 2021

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Shafqat Mahmood, has directed to formulate...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

Maintenance of roads: Administrator for utilising resources

KARACHI: Administrator Karachi Laeeq Ahmed on Sunday directed Works and Services Department to utilise all the...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

ARY Laguna, DHA Gujranwala sign MoU

KARACHI: Following the successful launch of ARY Laguna in Karachi, ARY and DHA bring you a modern real estate ...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

PARC to rebuild farming community in FATA

ISLAMABAD: PARC chairman Dr Muhammad Azeem Khan set up the project of Adaptive Research cum Demonstrative Institute...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

Rs6m rice looted near Nooriabad

HYDERABAD: A truck trawler transporting a consignment of rice worth around Rs6 million was looted on the M9 Motorway...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

Railways resumes Karachi-Mirpurkhas destined Mehran Express

KARACHI: Pakistan Railways resumed the Hyderabad-Mirpurkhas destined Mehran Express on Sunday afternoon from City...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Pakistan

PhD scholars: HEC offers research fellowship abroad

ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has offered a six months research fellowship abroad to full-time ...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Editorials

Housing loans

EDITORIAL: Prime Minister Imran Khan must have been happy to hear that disbursement of loans for construction of...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Editorials

Woeful cotton output decline

EDITORIAL: Cotton Association of Pakistan has released disturbing data that indicates a decline of 35.67 percent in...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Opinion

News, lies and IndianLeaks

To cover a lie, falsify the roots. The web of fake news is “almost” real. Fraud appears to be authentic....

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Letters

A culture of power theft

This is apropos a Business Recorder op-ed “Once again electric utility up for sale – I” carried by the...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

World

US lawmakers near a vote on virus relief plan

WASHINGTON: US lawmakers appeared on track Sunday to pass a roughly $900 billion Covid-19 relief package for ...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

World

Singapore gets shot in the arm from global drug demand

SINGAPORE: Scientists in protective clothing work in a high-tech laboratory at a pharmaceutical plant in Singapore,...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Industry

Apple temporarily shuts California stores, some in UK

NEW YORK: Apple Inc has temporarily shut all of its 53 stores in California because of a coronavirus outbreak and 16...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Money & Banking

China could restrict bank tie-ups with fintech platforms

BEIJING: China's former finance minister Lou Jiwei suggested that China could restrict the number of banks a single...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Industry

Chinese drone maker says products to remain on sale despite US restriction

BEIJING: Chinese drone manufacturer SZ DJI Technology Co Ltd, which was added by the United States along with dozens...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Industry

US lawmakers to back $1.9bn to replace telecom equipment from China’s Huawei, ZTE

WASHINGTON: US lawmakers are expected to endorse $1.9 billion to fund a program to remove telecom network equipment...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Commodities

Australia forecasts drop in coal output

MELBOURNE: Australia's coal producers may have to start cutting output if China maintains limits on imports from...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:16am

Stocks

Wall Street week ahead: Investors bet old-school retailers will rebound in 2021

NEW YORK: As holiday shopping season wraps up, US equity investors are gauging whether long-languishing shares of...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:15am

Stocks

Tesla to join elite S&P index, shaking up Wall Street

NEW YORK: Tesla is set to join an elite group of companies in a key Wall Street index, a move which gives greater...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:15am

Money & Banking

African currencies week ahead: Nigeria’s naira seen steady, Zambia’s kwacha may slip

LAGOS: Nigeria’s naira and other African currencies are likely to trade stable or firm slightly in the week ahead,...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:15am

Stocks

Russia seen reducing state FX sales

MOSCOW: Russia’s finance ministry is expected to ease support for the rouble by cutting its regular sales of...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:15am

Stocks

Europe’s bond boom may stem investment bank exodus from sovereign debt auctions

LONDON: The surge in government borrowing during the Covid-19 crisis and boost in bond trading may stem investment...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:15am

Opinion

Economy picks up?

The government is claiming a rise in productivity as a measure of the success of its policies specifically designed...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:15am

Rates.BR Index

Futures spread declined

KARACHI: The futures spread declined by 61bps to 11.53 percent on the last day of outgoing week. Trading activities...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:14am

Industry

Investment in gems sector: Call to devise joint strategy

PESHAWAR: Participants at a meeting have called for a joint strategy to promote investment in gems sector and...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:14am

World

Rockets hit near US embassy in Iraq as tensions flare

BAGHDAD: A volley of rockets exploded near the US embassy in Baghdad on Sunday, as tensions mount ahead of the...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:14am

World

Turkey conducts exercises in eastern Mediterranean

ANKARA: Turkey has carried out naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean, the defence ministry said Sunday,...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:14am

World

Dubai’s Meraas plans buyout of theme park group DXB Entertainments

DUBAI: Dubai property company Meraas, which owns more than half of DXB Entertainments, intends to make a conditional...

Updated 21 Dec, 2020 03:14am

Opinion

‘Powerful tradecraft’: how foreign cyber-spies compromised America

Speaking at a private dinner for tech security executives at the St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco in late February,...

Published 21 Dec, 2020 03:02am

Life & Style

AAJ PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Monday, December 21, 2020 TIMING PROGRAM TITLE 06:00 NEWS HOUR 06:25 HEADLINE NEWS 06:30 NEWS HOUR 06:55 HEADLINE...