News Archives for Latest - 2020-12-22

USA

Trump urges Congress to amend 'wasteful' coronavirus aid bill, slams funding for foreign special interests

President Trump berated the relief package, stating that "Congress found plenty of money for foreign countries, lobbyists and special interests, while sending the bare minimum to the American people who need it".
The government spending package contains tens of millions of dollars allocated for “gender” and “democracy” programs in Pakistan.

Updated 23 Dec, 2020 01:15pm

Pakistan

SNGPL reduces UFG losses by 2.38 percent; saves Rs1.5bn

The company has so far detected 18,748 gas theft cases which have resulted in booking of 519 MMCF amounting to Rs. 570 million against consumers.

Updated 23 Dec, 2020 12:05am

Pakistan

Gold prices increase Rs.250 to Rs112,750 per tola

The price of per tola and ten gram silver remained unchanged.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 09:09pm

Pakistan

Call for joint efforts to boost Pak-UK trade

The LCCI President said that Pakistan and UK enjoy strong bilateral relations and share history and deep cultural linkages.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 09:04pm

Pakistan

One dead, five injured in New Karachi ice depot explosion

One woman among five injured in the blast, rescue official said.
Blast occurred inside a boiler room with in an ice depot.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 08:54pm

Forex

Canadian dollar dips as new virus strain weighs on oil

Canadian dollar weakens 0.2% against the greenback.
Loonie trades in a range of 1.2843 to 1.2888.
Price of US oil falls 1.4%.
Canadian bond yields ease across the curve.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:39pm

Energy

China's 2020 crude oil production to reach 3.87mn bpd

Natural gas production seen topping 186 Bcm in 2020.
China to expand gas storage next year - NEA chief.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:38pm

Commodities

Soybeans hit new 6-1/2-year high on South America supply worries

Corn edged higher with support from soybeans, while wheat eased.
Reduced supplies of soybean before the arrival of the Brazilian crop continue to push prices up.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:36pm

Money & Banking

Egypt central bank forecast to keep interest rates unchanged

Of 16 analysts polled, 14 forecast the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) would leave rates unchanged at its regular monetary policy committee meeting.
The central bank slashed its benchmark rate by 300 bps in March and another 50 bps in both September and November.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:34pm

Stocks

S&P 500, Nasdaq open higher on Apple boost, stimulus optimism

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 16.25 points, or 0.05%, at the open to 30,200.20.
The S&P 500 opened higher by 3.16 points, or 0.09%, at 3,698.08

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:32pm

USA

US third-quarter GDP growth revised slightly up; momentum waning

Third-quarter GDP revised up to 33.4% rate.
Consumer, business spending revised higher.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:30pm

Financial

Yields dip as investors balance virus concerns against stimulus

Benchmark 10-year yields fell to one-and-a-half week lows early on Monday as countries shut off travel ties with the U.K.
BioNTech is testing the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine it developed with Pfizer against the mutation as it prepares to send 12.5 mln doses to EU countries by the end of year.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:29pm

Energy

Oil drops as new coronavirus strain revives demand fears

UK and France working to lift border closure.
US Congress approves $892 bln COVID-19 relief package.
Russia's Novak says oil output rise should not mean glut.
Coming up: API oil inventory report, 2130 GMT.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:28pm

South Asia

China visa centres in England close as new coronavirus variant spreads

The new variant of the virus, which has quickly become the dominant variant in cases of COVID-19 in parts of southern England, has led to several countries cutting travel ties with Britain.
There is also a Chinese visa centre in the Scottish capital Edinburgh, which has been operating under reduced hours since November.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:25pm

USA

Trump signs stopgap funding bill; Congress awaits his approval of $892bn COVID aid

The package includes $892 billion for coronavirus relief plus federal government funding to also avert a government shutdown - together worth about $2.3 trillion.
The wide-ranging bill includes $600 payments to most Americans and additional money to the millions of people thrown out of work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:22pm

USA

US existing home sales fall more than expected in November

Existing home sales, which account for the bulk of US home sales, surged 25.8% on a year-on-year basis in November.
Sales fell in the South, Midwest and Northeast. They were flat in the West.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:20pm

Stocks

TSX flat as materials drag offsets gains in energy stocks

The Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index was up 1.12 points, or 0.01%, at 17,502.01.
The energy sector climbed 0.3%, while the materials sector, which includes precious and base metals miners and fertilizer companies, lost 0.4%.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 08:20pm

Pakistan

COAS visits forward troops deployed along LoC: ISPR

General Bajwa was briefed about latest situation, Indian cease fire violations deliberately targeting innocent civilians along LoC and recent targeting of UN vehicle by Indian troops against all international norms and conventions, says ISPR.
The military chief said that Indian Army shall always get befitting response to any misadventure or aggression.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:56pm

Europe

German consumer confidence dips on lockdown woes

The lockdown and the closure of most shops really hit consumer confidence, Rolf Buerkl said.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:54pm

Europe

Brussels recommends EU members lift UK travel bans

Several EU member states have imposed flight, train and ferry bans on UK arrivals since Britain announced the discovery of a new strain of coronavirus.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:53pm

Middle East

US regrets Lebanon-Israel stalemate, offers mediation

The Trump administration has heralded major progress in its waning days in Israel's relations with the Arab world.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:49pm

Middle East

Israeli envoys fly to Morocco, aim to fortify U.S.-brokered ties

On Tuesday, Israel sent envoys to Morocco to meet its king and work on an upgrade of diplomatic ties, which were forged by the White House.
Ben-Shabbat and Kushner will see Morocco’s King Mohammed during a two-day trip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 07:34pm

Pakistan

Technological advances have opened up many possibilities for trade in services across borders: Razak

He said now after decades BAT has decided to move its BSS operations from Malaysia to Pakistan.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:27pm

Pakistan

LCCI urges FBR to withdraw cases against businessmen

The LCCI office-bearers demanded immediate withdrawal of cases against the businessmen.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:25pm

Pakistan

PSX loses 426 points to close at 42,906 points

As many as 411 companies transacted shares in the stock market, 103 of them recorded gain and 289 sustained losses.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:21pm

Stocks

FTSE 100 steady after virus-driven selloff; Brexit deal hopes rise

Britain's fishing rights offer raises hopes for a deal.
UK economy grows 16% in third quarter.
AstraZeneca down as asthma drug trial fails.
FTSE 100 up 0.2%, FTSE 250 adds 1%.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:17pm

Pakistan

Rupee loses 04 paisas against US dollar

The buying and selling rates of dollar were recorded at Rs160.5 and Rs161.25 respectively.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:18pm

Pakistan

Cutlery export increases 23.72pc in five months

The cutlery exports in November 2020 were recorded at $10.439 million.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:17pm

Money & Banking

China central bank to cool credit growth in 2021, avoid premature policy tightening

Central bank to scale back policy support as recovery quickens
No rush to tighten policy amid debt defaults, global risks.
China could lower 2021 budget deficit ratio to about 3%.
China growth seen soaring in early 2021.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:14pm

Pakistan

Country earns $231.238 million by exporting 458,104 metric tons rice in November

Rice exports during the period from July-November, 2020-21 was recorded at 1,340,770 metric tons.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:15pm

Pakistan

POL import bill contracts 22.78pc to $3.946 billion in 5 months

The imports of all other petroleum group commodities also increased by 8.93 percent, the data revealed.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:13pm

Stocks

Indian shares settle 1pc higher on IT stocks boost

The NSE Nifty 50 index ended 1.03% higher at 13,466.30 and the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex rose 0.99% to 46,006.69.
All the nifty sub-indexes finished up between 3.36% and 0.2%. The Nifty IT index advanced the most, closing up 3.36%.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:12pm

USA

US issues additional visa restrictions on Chinese officials

Pompeo said the restrictions affected officials believed to be responsible for or complicit in repressing religious practitioners.
US-China relations have plunged to their worst level in decades as the world's top two economies spar over issues ranging from the coronavirus outbreak.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:09pm

Pakistan

Maulana Tariq Jamil shifted to home after recovering from COVID-19

"I am very thankful to all of you for your prayers and love," tweets Maulana Tariq Jamil.
Prominent religious scholar had tested positive for coronavirus on December 13.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 06:50pm

Commodities

Gold falls as dollar holds firm on new virus strain fears

US Congress approves $892 coronavirus stimulus package.
Dollar gains on new COVID-19 strain.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:39pm

Companies

Indian refiners' November crude processing hits eight-month high

India's refinery throughput highest since March.
Indian refiners' utilization rate the most since February.
Top oil refiner back at full capacity first time since COVID-19.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:37pm

Business & Finance

Dubai property prices down 0.9pc in third quarter

The coronavirus pandemic has increased pressure on Dubai's property market, which for years has seen supply outstrip demand for new houses and apartments.
Citing data from the Dubai Land Department, the central bank said rents in Dubai fell 6.9% year on year in the third quarter.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:33pm

Companies

Russia's Sibur and Gazprom Neft eye Uzbekistan investments

It said the Russian companies will look into possible participation in expansion of capacity of the Shurtan gas chemical complex.
The complex, which produces polyethylene, is operated by Uzbekneftegaz, a strategic partner of Russian state gas company Gazprom.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:26pm

Europe

UK govt borrowing soars further on virus spending

British economic output however remains 8.6 percent below the level of one year ago.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:32pm

World

BioNTech says can make mutation-beating vaccine in six weeks

Sahin said the variant detected in Britain has nine mutations, rather than just one as is usually common.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:28pm

Europe

Russia announces travel bans against EU officials over Navalny

The Russian foreign ministry repeated claims that EU countries had refused to cooperate with Russia over a probe into the incident.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:26pm

Europe

Royal Mail to focus on pandemic-driven parcel growth as union dispute ends

Royal Mail and the Communication Workers Union (CWU) had been locked in a dispute over a 1.8 billion pound ($2.42 billion) restructuring plan.
"This agreement marks the end of our two year dispute with Royal Mail Group and brings closure to one of the most adversarial periods of our history."

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:23pm

USA

U.S. ready to mediate discussions between Israel and Lebanon –Pompeo

“Regrettably, despite goodwill on both sides, the parties remain far apart,” Pompeo said in a statement. 

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:15pm

Money & Banking

Brazil's bank lending up 1.8pc in Nov, new loans boosted by government programs

Over the past 12 months, the loan book grew 15.2%, the fastest pace since September 2013.
New disbursements were also up 8.5% in November from the previous month.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:15pm

USA

US Congress approves $900 billion stimulus package

Trump signed a stopgap measure early Tuesday to keep the federal government funded until December 28 and avert a shutdown.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:18pm

Europe

WHO Europe to convene members over new virus variant

According to the WHO there is currently "no evidence to indicate any change in disease severity."

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:17pm

Middle East

Iraq inks preliminary deal for Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine

Iraq has committed $170 million to be among the first countries to receive the vaccine, according to WHO.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:15pm

Companies

BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine heads to EU as effectiveness against new strain tested

The European Union is gearing up for a vaccination campaign of unprecedented scale following regulatory approval for the shot on Monday.
The EU deliveries amount to more than half the 20 million doses expected to be available in the United States before the end of the year, BioNTech's chief business officer.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:13pm

Africa

Sudan, Ethiopia start border talks one week after clash

Sudan has since deployed troops to the Al-Fashaqa border region, the site of sporadic clashes.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:13pm

Stocks

Sri Lankan shares rise as industrials, materials stocks rally

The benchmark stock index ended up 0.2% at 6,634.92. The index is up 8.3% for the year so far.
Trading volume on the CSE All Share Index was 939.24 million compared to 94.14 million on Monday.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:11pm

Europe

Slovenia starts mass virus testing

More than 2,400 Slovenians have died and there have been over 107,000 cases officially registered.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:11pm

Energy

Oil drops as new coronavirus strain revives demand fears

UK and France working to lift border closure.
US Congress approves $892 bln COVID-19 relief package.
Russia's Novak says oil output rise should not lead to glut Coming.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:09pm

South Asia

China says to take measures against US visa restrictions

The State Department has also cancelled visas for more than 1,000 Chinese students and researchers suspected of espionage.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:09pm

Commodities

Palm rebounds on likely higher China imports, biodiesel hopes

The benchmark palm oil contract for March delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange rose 10 ringgit, or 0.3%, to 3,416 ringgit ($841.59), after closing 1.1% lower on Monday.
Supporting prices was a potential rise in palm oil imports by China next year to 6.4 million tonnes from 6.2 million tonnes in 2020.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:07pm

Middle East

Kushner on board first Israel-Morocco direct commercial flights

Morocco closed its liaison office in Tel Aviv in 2000, at the start of the second Palestinian intifada, or uprising.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 06:07pm

Companies

ByteDance in talks to buy stake in mobile games firm CMGE

ByteDance looking to offer HK$4-5/share for stake –source.
Could become single largest shareholder of CMGE –source.
Sees gaming as next strategic growth area.
CMGE denies it is in talks with ByteDance on stake sale.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:51pm

Pakistan

Woman martyred, three injured as Indian troops target civilian population with heavy weapons

A 50-year-old woman embraced martyrdom while the injured included four-year-old minor Nayab: ISPR
Military's media wing says all injured have been evacuated to nearby health facility for medical care

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:56pm

South Asia

US warship sails by China-claimed Spratly Islands

China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, including the Spratly Islands, though Taiwan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam all claim parts of it.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:52pm

Stocks

Stocks recover as US stimulus offsets angst over new coronavirus strain

Euro STOXX 600 up 0.8%.
New COVID-19 strain a "bump in the road".
Congress approved $892 billion stimulus.
Sterling falls 0.5% as new COVID-19 strain hits Britain.
Dollar index gains 0.1%, faces 3rd straight quarterly loss.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:48pm

Africa

UN Mali probe sees war crimes, crimes against humanity

France, the colonial power, launched a military operation in 2013 that scattered the jihadists.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:47pm

Financial

Euro zone bond yields retrace early dip, focus on Brexit

The European Union's Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, will update the bloc's 27 national envoys on the latest on Brexit.
The German 10-year government bond yield was almost flat, after falling 1 basis point at -0.6%.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:46pm

Commodities

Larger crop, lack of rupees curb Iran's record Indian sugar appetite

Iran rupee reserves are low as US sanctions bite.
Iran sugar stocks high, output to surge this year – ISO.
Iran will buy two thirds less sugar from India – trade.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:41pm

Africa

Bashir trial judge steps down citing health reasons

The trial, which is broadcast on Sudanese television, was adjourned until January 5.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:43pm

Pakistan

IHC rejects petition seeking to stop government from procuring coronavirus vaccine

The petitioner claimed that pigs and monkeys DNAs have been added to the vaccine. Khokar’s legal representative argued that if they get vaccinated then a chip will be attached to their bodies and the foreign countries will be able to monitor our movement through artificial intelligence.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:41pm

Europe

UK PM, EU chief held talks on Brexit, Covid: EU source

Johnson and von der Leyen are pressing to break a logjam over fishing rights with just nine days to go before Britain leaves the EU single market and customs union.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:39pm

Companies

Vodafone to pay up to $2.6bn to end German legal fight

Tender offer to buy out minority shareholders at 103 euros/share.
Receives acceptances from shareholders representing 17.1%.
Elliott, other accepting shareholders to withdraw court appeal.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:37pm

Europe

Norway's top court rejects climate challenge to Arctic oil exploration

Their claims have already been rejected in two instances and hopes were finally dashed by the Supreme Court, which delivered the verdict by videoconference.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:36pm

Europe

Serbia gets first batch of Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine

An airplane unloading containers with 4,875 doses of vaccines. The vaccines were later taken to the Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera, known as the "Torlak", in Belgrade.
"The immunisation, most probably, will start next week," Mirsad Djerlek, state secretary in the health ministry, told reporters in front of the "Torlak" Institute building.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:33pm

South Asia

Thai seafood market coronavirus infections top 1,000

The majority of the new cases are workers from Myanmar, who toil on shrimp boats and in processing factories linked to the multi-billion-dollar Thai seafood industry.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:32pm

Forex

Spread of virus mutation keeps euro and pound under pressure

The pressure on European assets, however, eased after a sell-off on Monday caused by shut-down of the border with France and angst over Brexit trade talks.
With European stock markets back in positive territory, sentiment improved on foreign exchange markets for Europe's top currencies.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:29pm

Pakistan

'Time for performance has arrived,' PM tells ministers that we can no longer adhere to lack of experience justification

Power Ministry is the biggest challenge this government is facing, says Imran
Premier says we will put pressure on ourselves to take our governance to much higher levels in our remaining tenure

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 05:32pm

Europe

Coronavirus toll at 1100 GMT Tuesday

At least 77,272,040 cases of coronavirus have been registered. Of these, at least 49,095,900 are now considered recovered.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 05:30pm

South Asia

Afghan Taliban condemn Iranian FM’s comments terming group’s actions as ‘terrorist acts’ irresponsible

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan condemned comments made by Dr. Javad Zarif in a recent interview, citing it as "open interference in the internal affairs of Afghanistan".
"Such irresponsible and misconceived remarks by Iranian officials have the potential of harming relations between two friendly and neighboring countries", said Zabihullah Mujahid, Spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 05:17pm

Pakistan

Last day of VSS scheme: PIA receives over 1,300 applications

The employees seeking departure under the scheme would be paid his or her dues on January 31, 2021.
Employees under the age of 58 are eligible to avail the separation scheme.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 05:12pm

Pakistan

Senate session summoned on Opposition’s request

Opposition leader in the Senate Raja Zafar-ul-Haq said they had submitted a new request after first one returned down by the Senate Secretariat.
The agenda includes discussion on the recently concluded Gilgit-Baltistan elections and the electricity and gas crisis.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:25pm

Industry

International EV Manufacturers setting up in Pakistan: Fawad Chaudhry

International Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturers including MG Motors already setting up facilities in Pakistan, according to Fawad Chaudhry, the Federal Minister for Science and Technology.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 03:58pm

Pakistan

Money laundering case: Assets of Shehbaz Sharif family seized

The report presented in the court reads that NAB had frozen the assets of Shehbaz Sharif family.
Former CM Punjab is accused of accumulating assets worth Rs7,328 million in connivance with his co-accused family members, benamidars, front persons and close associations and for developing an organized system of money laundering.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 03:44pm

Pakistan

Senate polls cannot be held before February 10, clarifies ECP

ECP states half of the Senate members will retire on March 11, 2021 after completing their six-year term
As per the Constitution, elections cannot be held before the 30-day period on seats that will fall vacant after the expiry of the term of the members of the Senate: Commission

Published 22 Dec, 2020 03:38pm

Pakistan

Maryam Nawaz to visit Larkana on Benazir Bhutto’s death anniversary

PML-N leader will reach Sukkur on December 26, where she will address the workers convention of the party.
Bilawal had invited PML-N vice president to attend his mother’s death anniversary event at Garhi Khuda Buksh.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 03:22pm

Europe

AI use in the future will largely determine battle outcomes - Putin

According to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the technical modernisation of the arm and navy requires the introduction of new forms of warfare science, especially through the integration of artificial intelligence.
Putin observed that it is vital to not only study the experience of modern armed conflicts and local wars, but also to make predictions on how they will evolve in the future.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 03:16pm

Pakistan

149 policemen infected with COVID-19 in last five days in Sindh

These new cases take the tally of the coronavirus cases in the police department to 4,084.
22 officials have passed away from coronavirus.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 03:04pm

Pakistan

FIA raids PML-N’s MPA house to arrest ‘Pomi Butt’ in Gujranwala

Salman Khalid is wanted in the money laundering case, say agency officials.
Salman Khalid aka ‘Pomi Butt’ is the city president of PML-N Gujranwala.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 02:51pm

Companies

PIA Headquarters to shift to the Capital City by June 2021

PIA announced that it will be shifting its headquarters from Karachi to Islamabad in June 2021 as part of its restructuring plan.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 02:49pm

Business & Finance

Over $20bn Airport Infrastructure projects at risk of delays: AIIB

The Asian Infrastructure and Investment Bank (AIIB) in its latest report expressed concern that many projects will inevitably be delayed for years, rather than months, given the large financing needs and increased uncertainty about future profitability.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 02:37pm

Pakistan

Security forces kill seven terrorists in Quetta's Awaran area

Security forces personnel raided Kilkor area when militants opened fire on them
The identity of the terrorists could not be ascertained as yet

Published 22 Dec, 2020 02:29pm

Pakistan

Police report reveals 122 people killed in Islamabad this year

About 844 more first information reports (FIR) were registered during the year as compared to 2019, says report.
A group involved in raping the women while robbery bids was also nabbed by the police.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 02:08pm

Pakistan

Shaheen XI exercise: Air chief flies hi-tech Chinese fighter aircraft

Mujahid says Shaheen exercises will go a long way in enhancing the professional skills and operational preparedness of the Air Forces of Pakistan and China
In modern times, competition in the air domain centers not only around mastery of technology but also on its artful application in both strategy and tactics: Air chief

Published 22 Dec, 2020 02:15pm

Pakistan

Christian community playing role in country's development: Governor

He urged the philanthropists to service the masses by taking part in health and education sectors.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 01:35pm

Pakistan

ECP announces by-election schedule for seven constituencies

According to ECP notification, the commission has asked the electors to elect members parliament on their respective vacant seats.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 01:35pm

Companies

EasyJet defers Airbus aircraft delivery

The airline said a total of 22 aircraft will be deferred from full year 2022 to 2024, to full year 2027 to 2028.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:14pm

Forex

Kenya shilling gains ground as commercial banks sell off dollars

At 0715 GMT, commercial banks quoted the shilling at 110.90/111.10, compared to Monday's close of 111.30/111.50.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:12pm

Companies

Vodafone offers $2.6bn to end German legal fight

Vodafone said shareholders representing 17% of shares had accepted the offer, which valued all remaining minority holdings in Germany's largest cable company.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:10pm

Pakistan

At 40.32%, Abbottabad’s COVID-19 positivity rate highest in the country: NCOC

Hyderabad has 22.12% and Karachi has the third-highest coronavirus positivity rate which is 12.54%.
Punjab reported the highest number of COVID-19 deaths after 50 people died in the last 24 hours.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 01:11pm

Stocks

China stocks fall on Sino-US tensions, new virus strain

The Trump administration on Monday published a list of Chinese and Russian companies with alleged military ties that restrict them from buying a wide range of US goods and technology.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:08pm

Forex

Rouble falls beyond 92 vs euro on lower oil and sanction fears

Brent crude oil, a global benchmark for Russia's main export, was down 1.7% at $50.05 a barrel as a new strain of the novel coronavirus in the United Kingdom triggered concerns over fuel demand recovery.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:06pm

World

Google, Facebook agree to join hands against potential anti-trust lawsuit: Report

Google and Facebook were aware that their cooperative agreement could potentially trigger anti-trust investigations, and subsequently strategised on how to deal with them.
According to a spokesperson from Google, such agreements over anti-trust threats are extremely common in the industry, to avoid any unprecedented legal challenges.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 01:07pm

Financial

Norway to reduce value of government bond issues in 2021

As in previous years, new 10-year bond issue is planned for February and will be issued via syndication, Norges Bank said.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:03pm

World

Prison doctors among five killed in Kabul bombing

Lawmaker Khan Mohammad Wardak was wounded in the blast.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 01:00pm

World

UAE says Qatar media 'undermining' Gulf crisis progress

Earlier this month, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said a resolution of the Gulf diplomatic crisis was in sight, with all governments involved "on board" and a final agreement expected soon.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 01:00pm

Technology

Netflix Introduces Audio-only Mode to its Android App

Netflix aims for the podcasting industry by adding an audio-only mode to its Android app.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:39pm

Business & Finance

Remittance resurgence a tonic but no cure for sickly emerging economies including Pakistan

Such countries have led a surprise recovery in remittances in the second half of 2020, as the slowdown in flows amid the pandemic proved less severe than initially feared.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:46pm

World

China's CanSino recruits over 20,000 participants for COVID-19 Phase 3 trials

China aims to involve at least 40,000 candidates in CanSinoBIO's Phase 3 trials
Clinical trial registration data revealed that China has started enrolling participants from Pakistan, Russia, Mexico and Chile

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:43pm

Business & Finance

Despite COVID-19, CPEC is timely expanding into its second phase, says Bajwa

Bajwa said that the timely implementation of the projects is a testament to Pakistan-China friendship, saying that the project is a 'game changer'.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:27pm

Financial

Thai central bank seen holding key rate at record low 0.50%

He said the BOT might ease the rate sooner than thought, if it assessed that the resurgence in COVID-19 would aggravate a shaky economic recovery and liquidity concerns.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:06pm

Commodities

NY coffee may fall to $1.2235

8 A realistic target will be $1.2235, the 23.6% retracement. A break above $1.2450 could lead to a gain into $1.2545-$1.2665 range.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:04pm

World

India records lowest daily coronavirus tally since July 3

A total of 146,111 people have died of the coronavirus in India, with 301 deaths in the last 24 hours, the ministry said.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:02pm

Asia

Thailand confirms 427 new coronavirus infections

The new cases include 397 migrant workers in the southwestern province of Samut Sakhon, where Thailand's coronavirus worst outbreak yet was confirmed at the weekend.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 12:01pm

Forex

Yuan treads water ahead of holidays, new virus strain uncertainty

The global dollar index rose to 90.252 from the previous close of 90.132.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:58am

Commodities

Iron ore retreats as Dalian bourse sets further trade limit

China's Dalian Commodity Exchange has moved to limit non-futures company members' single-day position openings for iron ore futures to 2,000 lots from Tuesday's session.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:56am

Stocks

China stocks mixed on Sino-US tension, firmer liquor shares limit losses

Liquor companies also jumped following year-end demand. China's largest liquor maker, Kweichow Moutai Co Ltd , was up 2.64% at midday break hitting its all-time highs.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:51am

Pakistan

PDM issues tentative schedule for second phase of protest rallies

According to the tentative schedule, the first rally will be held in Mardan on December 23.
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has said that PDM will decide when to start the long march in Islamabad and will take poor, the unemployed, students and all those who are in trouble because of 'this selected government along to Islamabad with us'.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:36am

Asia

Japan PM Suga aims to meet with Biden as soon as possible

Suga, speaking at a symposium, also said Japan was preparing to implement thorough coronavirus prevention measures for the Summer Olympics next year.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:49am

Stocks

Indian shares adrfit in volatile session, Reliance top drag

India's volatility index rose as much as 4.14% to its highest in more than five weeks on Tuesday in a holiday-shortened trading week.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:47am

Stocks

Australia shares fall as new virus strain clouds recovery hopes

Industry giants BHP Group and Rio Tinto led losses among heavyweight miners, which slipped 2.3%.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:44am

Sports

Santner urged to be more attacking if given test nod

"We would be unlikely to break up that four-pronged bowling attack," Stead added as another reason why Santner would be competing with Daryl Mitchell for the all-rounder spot.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:40am

Business & Finance

Japan lowers spending view, says overall conditions are severe in Dec report

The government also raised its assessment on bankruptcies and of corporate profits, saying the rate of decline in profits was becoming smaller.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:37am

Pakistan

Ahsan Iqbal indicted in Narowal Sports City scam

Iqbal is accused of misusing his powers and embezzling funds causing losses worth billions to the national exchequer by initiating the sports city project in his home constituency
The PML-N MNA denied charges terming them as baseless

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:39am

Commodities

China's Dalian exchange proposes halving some iron ore trading position limits

The exchange already tightened single-day open positions on its most traded iron ore contract twice since the start of December to 5,000 lots as prices soared beyond market expectations.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:35am

Companies

Airbus to lose over $5bn in orders under AirAsia X's proposed restructuring

Recording losses since June 2019, AAX is now seeking court approval to convene a meeting with creditors to vote on the scheme.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:32am

Technology

PM Khan gives green signal to formulate first-ever Drone Policy of Pakistan

“The new policy will allow drone production and especially agriculture drone manufacturing industry will get a huge boost,” informed Fawad.

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 11:32am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks down at break

The Hang Seng Index eased 0.08 percent, or 22.35 points, to 26,284.33.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:30am

Sports

Don Bradman's debut 'baggy green' cap sold for record Aus$450,000

Pickles said the cap was sold on behalf of an insolvency firm seeking to recoup some of the investors' losses.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:28am

Stocks

Tokyo's Nikkei closes down for third straight session

The Nikkei 225 index dropped 1.04 percent, or 278.03 points, to close at 26,436.39.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:26am

Sports

Pakistan win toss and bowl in third New Zealand T20

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson said his team was unchanged from the side that clinched a nine-wicket win in Hamilton on Sunday.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:22am

Technology

Indian TikTok clone gets Google, Microsoft backing in $100mn fund raise

Both Josh and Moj have been installed on more than 50 million devices each, according to data from Google's Play Store.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:18am

World

Testing blitz shows Australian coronavirus cluster contained in Sydney's northeast

All Australian states have now moved to close their borders to NSW, with hundreds of police and military personnel deployed to ensure compliance.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:14am

World

UK, France to set out plan to restart freight: BBC

The measures will come into effect from Wednesday, the BBC said, citing French Europe Minister Clement Beaune.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:09am

Technology

ByteDance in talks to buy stake in mobile games firm CMGE

Hardcore games can be a steady source of revenue as users tend to keep playing popular titles for years and are willing to make in-app purchase for items that enhance game play, such as weapons.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:05am

World

US reinstates Sudan's sovereign immunity, authorizes funds to help pay debt

The bill also appropriates an additional $150 million for Sudan's settlement payment, in order to redistribute the funds in a way the bill's sponsors say is more equitable.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:01am

Pakistan

After UAE, Bahrain royals also given Houbara bustard hunting permits

Eleven members of the royal family of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have already arrived in Pakistan to hunt Houbara bustards in Chagai district.
- The UAE royals would stay in the area for one week.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 11:03am

Commodities

Arabica coffee falls as new COVID-19 strain sinks markets

The dollar surged versus most currencies, making dollar-priced soft commodities costlier for non US investors early in the day but shifted course, driving the sugar and cocoa markets.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:58am

Technology

Microsoft, Google, Cisco, Dell join legal battle against hacking company NSO

That in turn "means dramatically more opportunities for those tools to fall into the wrong hands and be used nefariously," the brief argues.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:53am

World

UN Security Council talks Western Sahara after Trump policy switch

President-elect Joe Biden, due to succeed Trump on Jan. 20, will face a decision whether to accept the US deal with Morocco on the Western Sahara, which no other Western country has done.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:49am

Sports

Djokovic withdraws from ATP Player Council elections

"The PTPA has made it clear it does not intend to be combative, it is unclear how the ATP will view the association in the future," Djokovic said.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:47am

Stocks

Australian shares fall as new coronavirus strain spooks market

Bucking the downward trend, healthcare stocks gained 0.5%, with CSL adding about 1% and Fisher and Paykel Healthcare gaining about a percent.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:44am

Business & Finance

Inflation steadily declining for the past four weeks: Finance Ministry

During the meeting, the Secretary MNFS&R presented before NPMC the current status of wheat and sugar stocks.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:44am

Companies

ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel to build new electric arc furnace in US

The new furnace will also produce slabs for automotive flat products, including advanced high-tensile steel sheets, it said.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:42am

World

Brazil health regulator certifies Sinovac's CoronaVac production standards

Anvisa has certified the quality of Sinovac's production standards, not the vaccine itself. Brazil's Sao Paulo state.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:39am

Pakistan

Human Rights Ministry demands UN to investigate extrajudicial killings of 11 Pakistani Hindus

Mazari says extrajudicial executions by Indian security forces in Manipur, have not been fully investigated
UN should constitute an investigation team, under the auspices of the UN and India should hand over of the dead bodies of deceased to family members

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:42am

USA

Mexico records 5,370 new coronavirus cases, 396 more deaths

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

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:38am

Forex

Dollar whipsaws as virus mutation rattles traders

Experts said there was no evidence that vaccines would not protect against the new virus variant, but Britain's chief scientific adviser said that in the meantime tighter restrictions on public life in Britain were likely.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:27am

Stocks

Tesla tumbles 6.5% from record high in S&P 500 debut

The company's shares had opened down nearly 5%.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:23am

Energy

Brent oil may bounce to $51.56

A break below $50.56 could cause a fall to $49.38.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:22am

Asia

China reports 15 new COVID-19 cases; no new strains detected

A new highly infectious strain of the virus has been detected in Britain, as well as some other countries.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:20am

Technology

Japan telco SoftBank bows to government pressure with fee cuts

The announcement, which follows pressure from Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga to reduce fees, marks a shift from offering low-price plans on its budget Ymobile brand while pushing consumers seeking the latest phones or more data onto expensive tariffs.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:17am

Companies

Citgo plans Q4 2021 overhaul at Corpus Christi refinery; may be postponed

In an emailed statement on Monday, Citgo said "maintenance plans for our Corpus Christi refinery include a turnaround that is currently scheduled and budgeted for the fourth quarter of 2021."

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:14am

Technology

'Dozens of email accounts' were hacked at US Treasury

Top US officials - including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo - have blamed Russia for the espionage operation, although some officials and experts have told Reuters it is too soon to know for sure who is behind the breach.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:11am

Stocks

Asian stocks slip as new COVID-19 strain darkens recovery prospects

The S&P 500 ended the day down 0.39% at 3,694.92.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:08am

Energy

US oil may test resistance at $48.42

The resistance is identified as the 7% retracement of the uptrend from $37.06 to $49.28. Support is at $47.50, a break below which could cause a fall to $46.40.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:06am

Commodities

Spot gold may drop to $1,862

The bounce consists of three waves. The third wave labelled c is much shorter than the first wave labelled a, as revealed by a projection analysis.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:03am

Stocks

South Korean stocks dip on virus mutation fears, fresh distancing measures

Foreigners were net sellers of 38.9 billion won worth of shares on the main board.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 10:00am

Business & Finance

Pakistan’s Current Account Surplus rose further, FX reserves at highest level in 3 years

As per the central bank's latest data, so far in FY21, the current account surplus has reached $1.6 billion compared to a deficit of $1.7 billion recorded over the same period last year.
- At $13.1bn, FX Reserves are now at their highest level in 3 years.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:44am

Energy

Oil slips again as new coronavirus strain proves 'nightmare before Christmas'

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped 30 cents, or 0.6%, to $47.67 a barrel at 0156 GMT, while Brent crude futures fell 26 cents, or 0.5%, to $50.65 a barrel.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:57am

Pakistan

Pakistan rejects India' denial to accept responsibility for targeting UN vehicle

FO said that the deliberate targeting of a UN vehicle engaged in discharging the mandate of the UN Security Council (UNSC) constitutes a 'grave violation of India’s obligations'.
The UN has also confirmed that a vehicle of the UNMOGIP was hit by an unidentified object near the Pakistani side of the LoC.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:41am

World

Former Japan PM Abe questioned Monday by prosecutors, NHK says

Tokyo prosecutors said they do not comment on investigations. Abe's office declined to comment and requested that questions be sent by facsimile.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:55am

Business & Finance

Australia retail sales surge by a record in Nov

NAB's Strickland noted that news on the virus has been encouraging with community transmission cases falling to eight on Tuesday from 15 on Monday and 30 the day before.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:54am

Commodities

CBOT soybeans may rise into $12.56-$12.61 range

Support is at $12.47-1/2, a break below which could cause a fall to $12.42-1/2.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:51am

Commodities

CBOT corn may rise into $4.45-1/2 to $4.47-3/4 range

Chances are it may extend into the target zone, following the deep correction on Monday.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:49am

Sports

Chelsea defender Chilwell set for ankle scan

"I expect he'll be doubtful for Arsenal. He turned his ankle and tried to carry on but it was too painful," Lampard said. "We'll have a scan to try and see how bad the injury is. We'll update after."

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:47am

Commodities

Japan Jan-March quarter crude steel output seen -2.5% y/y

Demand for steel products, including those for exports, is forecast to drop 3.4% to 20.64 million tonnes in January-March versus a year earlier.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:44am

Stocks

Japanese shares drop as new virus strain sparks profit-taking

Railway and airline operators declined, with East Japan Railway down 1.8% and ANA Holdings falling 2.2%.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:42am

Commodities

Soybeans hit over 6-year high as South America weather, labour strikes stoke supply woes

The most active corn futures were up 0.2% to $4.40-3/4 a bushel, after gaining 0.6% in the previous session.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:39am

Business & Finance

Total crypto fund inflows top $5 billion this year, up more than 600% - report

Interest in cryptocurrencies skyrocketed this year as investors saw bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and as an alternative to the depreciating dollar.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:37am

Commodities

China to import record 100mn tonnes of soybeans in 2020

Zhou said soymeal demand will remain strong this quarter and into the first quarter of next year.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:38am

Forex

Australian dollar slips, shrugging strong sales data

Australian 10-year yields were little changed at 0.96% , while three-year bond futures were one and a half ticks higher at 99.815.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:35am

Business & Finance

Exclusive: Apple targets car production by 2024 and eyes 'next level' battery technology - sources

Apple’s goal of building a personal vehicle for the mass market contrasts with rivals such as Alphabet Inc’s Waymo, which has built robo-taxis to carry passengers for a driverless ride-hailing service.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:34am

Energy

China's 1st round of crude oil import quotas 18% higher on year

China's Ministry of Commerce, in charge of quota allotments, did not respond to a request for comment.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:33am

World

Biden receives COVID-19 vaccine at Delaware hospital

He received his first dose of the Pfizer Inc COVID-19 vaccine on Monday

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:31am

World

Malaysia buys AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines, seeks more from China, Russia

The government expects to receive the first batch of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in February, he added. Malaysia was the first country in Southeast Asia to strike a deal with the US drugmaker.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:31am

Commodities

Palm oil jumps over 1% as rival oils gain

Soyoil on the CBOT rallied overnight to reach six-and-a-half-year highs, as prolonged worker strikes and dry weather in Argentina squeezed global supply prospects.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:29am

Commodities

London copper edges up on US stimulus deal

Three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange rose 0.7% to $7,899 a tonne by 0330 GMT.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:13am

Commodities

Gold rises on US stimulus cheer, virus fears

"Heightened inflation expectations due to the US fiscal stimulus package have seen gold pick up as an inflation hedge," said Howie Lee, an economist at OCBC Bank.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:05am

World

US surpasses 18mn reported Covid-19 cases: Johns Hopkins

Trump's behavior has come despite having been hospitalized with the virus himself.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:03am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks begin day with losses

The Hang Seng Index fell 0.17 percent, or 45.90 points, to 26,260.78.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 09:01am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks open lower on virus worries

SoftBank Group was down 1.13 percent at 8,393 yen following reports that it applied for an initial public offering of a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) called SVF Investment to raise up to $525 million.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:58am

Sports

Smith hopes virus-hit Sydney can still host third India Test

Smith said playing a Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was always special.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:55am

USA

US Congress edges toward approval of $900bn stimulus package

Progressive New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said earlier Monday that legislators still did not have copies of the more than 5,550-page bill.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:52am

Technology

Al-Jazeera journalists targeted by spyware: watchdog

"Instead it relies on assumptions made solely to fit Citizen Lab's agenda," a company spokesman said in a statement.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:48am

Business & Finance

IMF says unlocks $2bn for pandemic-hit Ecuador

The money is being unlocked as part of an aid plan that totals $6.5 billion and extends over 27 months, the fund said.

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:46am

Stocks

Asian markets fall further as new strain clouds near-term outlook

There is a gap to be bridged between now and when experts expect herd immunity -- in the middle of the second quarter at the earliest."

Published 22 Dec, 2020 08:44am

BR Research

Treet Corporation Limited

Treet Corporation Limited (PSX: TREET) was established as a public limited company in 1977. The company is...

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:45am

BR Research

Does coal still hold a future?

Not exactly a coal boom, but the world might be seeing another rebound in coal consumption in 2021 despite two years...

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:40am

BR Research

Steel prices: No quandary

As the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) busies itself in implicating cement manufacturers in cartelizing...

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:35am

BR Research

Microfinance: savings delight

This space had previously highlighted that the pandemic’s peak quarter (Apr-Jun) had been a mixed bag for the...

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:30am

BR Research

Questions beyond LNG

Last week, “RLNG -The Great Debate’ on a private news channel took place between Nadeem Baber and Shahid Khaqan...

Published 22 Dec, 2020 07:25am

Rates.LIBOR

LIBOR interbank offered rates

LONDON: London Interbank Offered Rates (LIBOR) on Monday (December 21, 2020)

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:31am

Rates.KIBOR

Kibor interbank offered rates

KARACHI: Kibor interbank offered rates on Monday (December 21, 2020)

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:30am

Energy

HSD, petrol: Govt may increase margins of OMCs, dealers

ISLAMABAD: The government may increase the margins of the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and dealers on high-speed...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:28am

World

Reporter shot dead in Afghanistan

KABUL: Gunmen murdered an Afghan journalist in the eastern city of Ghazni on Monday, the third reporter to be killed...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:23am

World

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupts

HONOLULU: The Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island erupted late Sunday, authorities said, warning of a possible...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:14am

World

US nuclear submarine crosses Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON: A US nuclear submarine crossed the Strait of Hormuz Monday in a new show of force directed at Iran as ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:14am

World

China calls Trump cyberattack claims 'a farce'

BEIJING: China on Monday said tweets by President Donald Trump suggesting Beijing was involved in a massive...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:14am

Pakistan

Senate elections: Rashid foresees PDM leaders' participation

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Monday again warned the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:13am

Pakistan

Vacant slot of Mayor MCI: Sajid Mahmood to contest by-election as PTI candidate

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek Insaf (PTI) on Monday handpicked Malik Sajid Mahmood as its candidate to contest...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:13am

Pakistan

New visa category regarding health tourism for Afghanistan on the cards

ISLAMABAD: The government is introducing a new visa category regarding health tourism for Afghanistan with a view to...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:13am

Pakistan

Countrywide Covid-19 positivity rate declines to 5.15pc

ISLAMABAD: The nationwide coronavirus positivity rate has declined to 5.15 percent as the health authorities during...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:13am

Life & Style

Aaj TV - Tuesday's schedule

All timings are in PST (Pakistan Standard Time)

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:09am

Pakistan

Saudi envoy calls on PM

ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Saudi Arabia Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki called on Prime Minister Imran Khan here on Monday...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Energy

Ground realities ignored: Nepra set to begin public consultation on CTBCM today

ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) is all set to start public consultation on...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Pakistan

Condolence

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Central Secretary Information Dr Nafisa Shah expressed deep sorrow over the...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Technology

PSEB, KP-ITB sign MoU for establishing nine STPs

PESHAWAR: A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was inked between Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and Khyber...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Business & Finance

Trade with Afghanistan, CARs: Dawood holds consultative meeting

ISLAMABAD: Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce and Investment, Abdul Razak Dawood, held a consultative meeting at...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Pakistan

Park Lane case: Witness testifies before AC

ISLAMABAD: A prosecution witness on Monday told Accountability Court that he did not know about the charges leveled...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Pakistan

Case related to interest: 'AGP could not change stance regarding jurisdiction of FSC'

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Shariat Court (FSC) on Monday said the attorney general for Pakistan (AGP) could not change...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Pakistan

Social media rules: IHC issues notice to AG, federal government, MoITT, PTA

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday issued notice to the attorney-general (AG), the federal...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Energy

LNG sector: TPA rules may lead more US companies to invest: SAPM

ISLAMABAD: Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) Nadeem Babar termed third party access (TPA) rules as a...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Stocks

PSX holds gong ceremony to greet three Pakistani companies

KARACHI: Pakistan Stock Exchange held a gong ceremony to recognise the tremendous achievement of the three listed...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Stocks

PSX lists Top 25 Companies Awards recipients

KARACHI: In a year full of events and developments, some positive and some challenging, Pakistan Stock Exchange ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Industry

Covid-19, wheat crisis push millions into poverty: PBIF

KARACHI: Chairman of National Business Group and President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum (PBIF), Mian...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Industry

FPCCI publishes three research journals

KARACHI: Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has published three of its note-worthy...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Pakistan

APNS condoles

KARACHI: Sarmad Ali, Secretary General of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society has expressed profound grief on behalf...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

Pakistan

Sindh reports 644 new Covid-19 cases

KARACHI: As many as 19 more patients of COVID-19 lost their lives overnight and 644 new cases emerged when 10,234...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

World

US restricts visas for Chinese officials suspected of rights abuses

WASHINGTON: The US imposed additional restrictions Monday on visas for Chinese officials suspected of human rights...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:08am

World

Navalny says he tricked FSB agent into admitting poisoning

MOSCOW: Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said Monday he had tricked a security agent into admitting the...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

World

EU watchdog approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine

THE HAGUE: The EU's drug regulator gave the green light for the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine on Monday, and...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

World

Singapore gets Asia's first Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine doses

SINGAPORE: Singapore received Asia's first delivery of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine on Monday, capping...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

World

Al-Jazeera journalists targeted by spyware

NICOSIA: Dozens of journalists at Qatar's Al-Jazeera broadcaster had their mobile communications intercepted by...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

World

Statue of Confederate general Lee removed from US Capitol

WASHINGTON: A statue of Robert E. Lee, a commander for the pro-slavery South during the US Civil War, was removed...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

Business & Finance

Brexit talks flirt with failure as new deadline blown

BRUSSELS: EU and UK trade talks inched onwards under renewed pressure Monday as transport chaos triggered by the...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

World

China leaves lending benchmark LPR unchanged

SHANGHAI: China kept its benchmark lending rate for corporate and household loans unchanged at its December fixing ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

World

Iraqis protest after currency value slashed

BAGHDAD: Hundreds of angry Iraqis protested Monday in several cities against a currency devaluation that has slashed...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:07am

Energy

Latvia completes new power line to end link with Moscow

RIGA: Latvia completed a new high-voltage power line to Estonia on Monday in the latest step in aligning electricity...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Business & Finance

Japan cabinet approves record budget, higher defence spending

TOKYO: Japan's cabinet on Monday approved a record budget proposal for the next fiscal year from April, including...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Money & Banking

Lebanon parliament clears way for forensic audit of central bank

BEIRUT: Lebanon's parliament Monday approved a bill that suspends banking secrecy laws for one year to allow for a...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Pakistan

Ord to be amended to facilitate land sharing in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to amend Capital Development Ordinance, 1960 to facilitate land ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Pakistan

Lady health workers present charter of demands

KARACHI: Pakistan People's Party (PPP) MNA Shahida Rahmani, while speaking to a seminar, demanded that the ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Opinion

Partly Facetious: What constitutes juvenile behaviour?

"I declare Bilawal Bhutto Zardari number one in giving epithets to his political opponents."

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Pakistan

Corps Commander Lt-Gen Nadeem meets Sindh governor

KARACHI: Lt Gen Nadeem Ahmad Anjum, having recently assumed responsibilities as Commander Karachi (V Corps) called ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Taxes

FBR field formations: CCs, DGs directed to stop granting additional charge positions

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Monday directed all chief commissioners/director generals (Inland...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Companies

Arçelik (Dawlance), Hitachi ink agreement worth $300 million

KARACHI: Arçelik A S and Hitachi Global Life Solutions, Inc have signed a share purchase agreement to establish a...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Pakistan

Post of MD STEDEC: Govt likely to appoint a 'tainted' person?

ISLAMABAD: The government is likely to appoint someone who was removed from another organization subsequent to an...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Pakistan

UAE, Saudi Arabia don't think India as substitute: Qureshi

MULTAN: Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi said that United Arab Emirate visa ban issue was...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Pakistan

Minister for promoting harmony and national integration

ISLAMABAD: The top goal of the government is to promote harmony and national integration, said Federal Minister for...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Cotton & Textile

Cotton spot rate rises by Rs100 to Rs9950

KARACHI: The Spot Rate Committee of the Karachi Cotton Association on Monday has increased the spot rate by RS 100...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Cotton & Textile

Cotton Spot Rates

KARACHI: Official KCA spot rates for local dealings in Pakistan rupees on Monday (December 21, 2020)....

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Rates.Ports

Activities of Karachi Port and Port Qasim

KARACHI: The Karachi Port handled 344,051 tonnes of cargo comprising 214,320 tonnes of import cargo and 129,731...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Energy

US natural gas hits 2-week high

NEW YORK: US natural gas futures rose to a two-week high on Friday on forecasts for near record liquefied natural ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Commodities

Indian gold discounts offer for first time in 6 weeks

BENGALURU/MUMBAI: Physical gold in India was sold at a discount for the first time in six weeks as a rebound in ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Grains

Euronext wheat edges higher on weather risks

PARIS: Euronext wheat edged higher on Friday, underpinned by weather risks for South American soybean and corn crops...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Grains

CBOT corn futures rise

CHICAGO: Chicago Board of Trade corn futures rose for the sixth day in a row on Friday, following a rally in the...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Grains

South Korea buys rice

HAMBURG: South Korea's state-backed Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp. purchased an estimated 45,458 tonnes of...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Grains

Vietnam's rice export prices jump

HANOI: Rice export prices in Vietnam jumped to their highest since December 2011 this week, as a shortage of...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Commodities

PMEX daily trading report

KARACHI: On Friday, at PMEX the traded value of metals, energy, COTS/FX and indices was recorded at PKR 5.834 ...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:06am

Money & Banking

Sterling slumps

LONDON: Sterling fell against the dollar and euro on Monday as more countries cut transport ties with Britain, where...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Money & Banking

Aussie, kiwi fall

SYDNEY/WELLINGTON: The Australian and New Zealand dollars fell on Monday as stricter Christmas lockdowns to contain...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Money & Banking

Euro, pound fall in Europe

LONDON: The British pound and the euro fell on Monday as investors sought refuge in the dollar, after a...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Money & Banking

Early trade in New York: Dollar rises to over one-week high

NEW YORK: The dollar rose to a more than one-week high on Monday in a holiday-shortened week on fears about a...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Money & Banking

Bitcoin slumps 6 percent

LONDON: Bitcoin dropped as much as 6% on Monday, with fears over a fast-spreading new coronavirus strain in Britain...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Stocks

London stocks fall on new virus strain

LONDON: UK mid-cap stocks suffered their worst day in 3 months on Monday as stricter curbs to fight a fast-spreading...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Stocks

Australian, NZ shares slip

SYDNEY/WELLINGTON: Australian shares ended slightly lower on Monday, as growing coronavirus cases in the country's...

Updated 22 Dec, 2020 04:05am

Currency	Rate
USD PKR Interbank Selling / Jun 24	278.40
USD PKR Interbank Buying / Jun 24	278.20
USD to Japanese Yen / Jun 25	161.77
USD to Swiss Franc / Jun 25	0.81
Pound Sterling to USD / Jun 25	1.32
Euro to USD / Jun 25	1.14
SOFR % / Jun 24	3.62

Stock	Volume
S&P 500 / Jun 25	7,357.49
India Sensex / Jun 25	77,100.47
Tokyo Nikkei / Jun 25	72,366.34
Nasdaq / Jun 25	25,358.60
Hang Seng / Jun 25	23,076.91
FTSE 100 / Jun 25	10,529.89
Dow Jones / Jun 25	51,920.62
Germany DAX 30 / Jun 25	24,994.83
France CAC40 / Jun 25	8,431.61

Item	Value
Karachi Cotton PKR/37.32 KG / Jun 24	18,280
Gold 10 Grams PKR / Jun 24	368,985
Crude Oil USD/Barrel / Jun 25	71.49
Gold Spot USD/Ounce / Jun 25	4,022.70
Cotton US¢/pound / Jun 25	76.97
Petrol/Litre / Jun 26	299.50
Diesel/Litre / Jun 26	311.47

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