News Archives for Latest - 2021-02-15

Business & Finance

Pakistan’s Workers Remittances exceeded $2bn in Jan 2021

The growth in remittances recorded an increase of 19 percent over January 2020. However, remittances remained slightly lower from December 2020 level of $2.4 billion.

Updated 16 Feb, 2021 09:40am

Pakistan

Senate elections: 170 nomination papers submitted to ECP

51 candidates filed nomination papers from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), 41 from Balochistan, 39 from Sindh and 29 from Punjab province.
The Senate polls are scheduled to be held on March 3.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 09:32pm

Stocks

Indian shares set record closing highs as banks surge

Domestic stock indexes have rallied more than 12% in February on a high-spending federal budget, better-than-expected December-quarter corporate earnings and strong foreign fund inflows.
On Monday, the NSE Nifty 50 index ended 1% higher at 15,314.70, while the S&P BSE Sensex closed 1.18% higher at 52,154.13.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:29pm

Stocks

Saudi shares climb on higher crude while Qatar falls

Saudi benchmark firms for eighth straight session.
Ooredoo biggest faller on Qatari benchmark.
Emaar Properties leads gains in Dubai market.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:18pm

World

India producer to send Canada Covid-19 vaccines 'within a month'

The Serum Institute's chief executive Adar Poonawalla said his company was awaiting regulatory approval from Canada.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:23pm

Commodities

EU 2020/21 soybean imports at 9.17mn tonnes by Feb. 14, rapeseed 4.29mn tonnes

That compared with 8.85 million tonnes cleared by the same week last season,.
EU rapeseed imports in 2020/21 had reached 4.29 million tonnes, compared with 4.40 million a year ago.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:22pm

Middle East

Jordan starts 'world first' Covid vaccinations in refugee camp

Jordan hosts 663,000 Syrian refugees registered with the United Nations.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:22pm

World

NATO will not leave Afghanistan before 'time is right'

Defence ministers are not expected to make a concrete announcement on the deployment's future at their meeting.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:20pm

Companies

Ford joins global initiative to promote responsible mining

Ford said its planned investment in electric vehicles would increase the company's reliance on mined material, particularly related to production of EV batteries.
IRMA provides third-party verification and certification of mining practices to protect human rights, communities and environment along the supply chain.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:19pm

Middle East

Around 1 percent vaccinated for coronavirus in Mideast: WHO

WHO's EMRO comprises 21 member states and is home to some 583 million people.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:18pm

Forex

South Africa's rand firmer on improving economy, global yield hunt

Crucially, it was the first time since early January the unit broke below the 14.50 technical resistance mark seen as a buy-target by traders.
"This is not going to change until we either get a diabolical budget from Mboweni (unlikely) or there is a global black swan event which throws us a curve ball."

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:16pm

Middle East

Dubai airport reports 70pc fall in passenger numbers amid pandemic

India accounted for the largest number of passengers at the Dubai airport last year, with 4.3 million Indians travelling through the hub.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:17pm

Africa

South African schools reopen after delay over Covid variant

The reopening comes as parents and teachers worry that not enough has been done to guard against infections.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 09:17pm

Money & Banking

Italy approves Credit Agricole's bid for Creval

PM Draghi approves French bid after taking office.
Credit Agricole offering 737 mln euros for Creval.
Deal to benefit from tax breaks to spur corporate tie-ups.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:14pm

Commodities

Brighter demand outlook powers platinum to six-year high

Platinum unlikely to trade at a premium to gold -analyst.
Markets await US Fed FOMC minutes on Wednesday.
Benchmark US yields rose to 11-month high on Friday.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:12pm

Companies

EU seeks new COVID-19 vaccine deal with Moderna, AstraZeneca flags doses made outside EU

No progress in talks with AstraZeneca on H1 supplies-sources
AstraZeneca flags possible supplies made outside EU-sources

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:07pm

Companies

Italian yacht makers Ferretti, Sanlorenzo interested in buying Perini Navi

The two groups said they had created a 50-50 joint venture to take over Perini Navi's Italian brands, assets and operations.
Earlier this month another Italian yacht maker, The Italian Sea Group, said it was considering participating in a potential auction for Perini Navi.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:06pm

Sports

Inter latest team on top as Serie A title race takes another twist

With Inter and AC Milan suffering a sharp decline after their last league title successes in 2010 and 2011 respectively, Juve have claimed the previous nine Serie A crowns in a row.
They had not been top after 22 games of a season since their treble-winning campaign in 2010-11 under Jose Mourinho.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:04pm

USA

Rio de Janeiro halts COVID-19 shots as vaccine supplies dry up

I have received the news that new doses did not arrive," Rio's Mayor Eduardo Paes wrote on Twitter.
Today we are vaccinating 84-year-olds and tomorrow 83-year-olds. We are ready and have already vaccinated 244,852 people. We just need the vaccine to arrive ... it should come next week.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 09:02pm

Industry

Russia's January industrial output down 2.5pc y/y on OPEC+ deal

In annual terms, January data was dragged down by lower oil and gas production which also resulted in weaker oil products output, along with some other factors, the statistics service, or Rosstat, said.
The main factor behind the monthly fall in January industrial output was lower manufacturing activity, namely food stock production such as flour, spaghetti, rice and sunflower oil.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:57pm

Europe

Germany's Scholz lauds Draghi-led government as ‘very good sign’

In Italy, again, a pro-European government has been formed. That's a very, very good sign.
Mario Draghi stands for a very smart policy, he is very experienced in fiscal policy. He is well connected internationally and he is a true European.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:54pm

Pakistan

Companies’ registration in Pakistan increased: Razak

He urged the investors to take advantage of the ease in company registration offered by SECP to formalize their businesses.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:55pm

Europe

Spain to approve aid package for companies in March, minister says

What we are doing is trying to identify those companies that were fundamentally viable before the pandemic hit and whose solvency has been weakened as a result of the sharp drop in activity.
A government source had previously told Reuters that haircuts on state-backed loans could factor into the package.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:53pm

Pakistan

Digital franchise Post Offices being set up across the country: Minister

The Minister said after completion of digitization process, E-Commerce portal will be developed for Electronic Money Orders.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:54pm

Pakistan

Haidri sees PDM to get more seats in Senate poll

He said all opposition parties of PDM were on one page.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:52pm

Commodities

Dry weather and heat threaten Ivory Coast's cocoa crop

The soil is becoming dry. We need a good rain before the end of the month or we will have losses.
A prolonged heat wave could worsen the quality of beans during the first three months of the mid-crop, farmers said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:51pm

Pakistan

PTI lacked two-third majority in the parliament, says Khuhro

He said incompetent government was hiding behind court but the court would decide the case according to the Constitution.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:51pm

Companies

S.Africa's Eskom to spin off transmission business by end-2021: CEO

Eskom has debt net debt of between 460 billion and 485 billion rand ($34 billion), and is likely to record another "substantial loss" in 2021, de Ruyter said in a live address on YouTube.
Why do we prioritise transmission? It's to enable us to demonstrate to private investors, in generation in particular, that their bids will be fairly adjudicated compared to legacy Eskom generation.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:49pm

Pakistan

27,751 health workers vaccinated in Sindh

Apart from Karachi, 2866 frontline healthcare workers were inoculated against the coronavirus at Liaquat University of Medical Sciences, and 3805 at Shaheed Benazirabad’s MCH Centre.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:48pm

Financial

Italy hires banks to issue new dual-tranche BTP bond

The transaction will be launched in the near future subject to market conditions.
The Treasury has appointed Citigroup, Deutsche Bank , Goldman Sachs, Monte dei Paschi di Siena Capital Services and Nomura to work on the deal.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:47pm

World

Erdogan accuses US of backing 'terrorists' in Iraq

The PKK has been waging an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984 that is believed to have left tens of thousands dead.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:47pm

Companies

Ford dissolves its 7.6pc stake in Velodyne Lidar

As of Sept. 30, Ford had a passive stake of 7.6% or 13.07 million shares in Velodyne.
Velodyne is one of several companies vying to supply automakers with lidar, a sensor that generates a three-dimensional map of the road ahead.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:45pm

Stocks

Markets extend rally on recovery hopes

Sterling leapt to $1.3914, which was the highest point since April 2018, while the euro sank to 87.240 pence, a level last seen last May.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:45pm

Europe

Euro zone mulls stimulus calibration when economy restarts after COVID

The issue is how best combine to the commitment to short- term support with a credible medium-term fiscal strategy. Now the measures are non-discriminatory. With time, more and more sectors approach normality, it will be time to wean off the corporate sector from public support. Different sectors will have different recovery dynamics.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:44pm

Europe

Macron, Le Pen in battle for support of right

Le Pen was easily beaten in the 2017 run-off by Macron, a result partly blamed on a dire performance in a televised debate against him.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:43pm

Europe

Taliban must do more to meet its peace deal commitments, NATO says

We see that there is still a need for the Taliban to do more when it comes to delivering on their commitments ... to make sure that they break old ties with international terrorists.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:42pm

Middle East

Iraq detects new UK-based strain, reimposes partial lockdown

Iraq has been among the countries hardest-hit by coronavirus in the Middle East, with more than 640,000 reported cases and over 13,000 deaths.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:42pm

Money & Banking

Bitcoin's mainstream charge raises stakes for central bank digital cash

Central banks from the Group of Seven nations set out in October how a digital currency could function, though progress has been slow.
Access to central bank money beyond physical cash has so far been restricted to financial institutions. Extending it to the broader public would have major economic and financial repercussions.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:39pm

Europe

Iranian arrested in Turkey not consulate employee: Tehran

"No consulate employee has been arrested," foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh told reporters.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:41pm

Europe

UK's PM cautious on lockdown easing as new hotel regime starts

The government is due to set out a roadmap to relax the measures in England on February 22, and has indicated schools could reopen on March 8.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:38pm

Energy

Texas wholesale electric prices spike more than 10,000pc amid outages

Real-time wholesale market prices on the power grid operated by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) have climbed as high as $11,000 per megawatt.
The surge reflects the real-time price of electricity and the cost of congestion and losses at different points across the grid.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:37pm

Middle East

Palestinians push back vaccine rollout over delivery delay

He said the launch of vaccinations for the general public would be announced "at a later time," when sufficient supplies arrive.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:29pm

Sports

Serena leads charge of American women, faces old foe Halep

In contrast, Mackenzie McDonald was the only American male player to make the last 16 stage at this year's Australian Open.
I think it's great for American tennis ... three women in the quarter-finals of a slam, I think that's great.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:35pm

Europe

Lavrov blames EU for demise of its Russia ties

Relations have been consistently torn apart by the European Union.
"Don't confuse Europe with the European Union. When it comes to Europe, we are not going anywhere," Lavrov said. "We have many friends in Europe."

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:33pm

Companies

UK auditing Indian vaccine site amid scramble for shots

Due to commercial confidentiality we do not comment on inspections that are still ongoing.
spection outcomes for Covid-19 vaccines conducted by the MHRA will be considered by EMA.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:31pm

Forex

Buoyant copper prices lifts Chile's peso

Chile's peso hit highest since Jan. 21.
Oil prices hit 13-month high; Colombia's peso extends gains.
- Mexico's peso slips; MXN not cheap any more – JPM.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:29pm

Africa

Nigeria's Okonjo-Iweala makes history as head of WTO

Okonjo-Iweala chosen as WTO's 7th chief.
Former Nigeria minister has strong reform record.
Geneva-based body leaderless for six months.
Trump paralysed some of WTO's functions.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:26pm

Middle East

Yemeni govt forces repel rebel attacks on key town

Two military officials told AFP that rebels had attacked to the north, south and west of the city.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:27pm

Africa

DR Congo starts Ebola vaccination after new outbreak

The WHO's office in the Democratic Republic of Congo said four people in Biene had been vaccinated and 334 other contacts would also receive the jab.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:25pm

Europe

Turkey summons US ambassador over statement on Iraq killings

The United States said it stood by fellow NATO member Turkey and that it condemned the killings if it was confirmed that responsibility lay with the PKK.
Now there is a statement made by the United States. It's a joke. Were you not supposed to stand against the PKK, the YPG? You clearly support them and stand behind them.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:25pm

Sports

South Africa announce cricket tour of Ireland

The Proteas previously visited Ireland for a single game in June 2007 when they played an ODI in Belfast.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:24pm

Companies

Gazprom gas exports outside former Soviet Union up 36.5pc y/y Jan 1-Feb 15

The company's gas output for the period rose 6.9% to 70 bcm.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:23pm

Sports

Klopp 'full of energy' to meet challenge of Liverpool slump

Klopp's men turn their attention to the Champions League on Tuesday when they face RB Leipzig in the first leg of their last 16 tie.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:23pm

Companies

Rosneft agrees new oil contract with PKN Orlen, supplies to drop

The decrease in supplies was agreed due to the rise in the price of supplied oil, the sources said.
Rosneft insisted on a higher oil price in the new contract to make supplies equally profitable to seaborne exports, so PKN decided to decrease purchased oil volumes.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:22pm

Europe

Turkey summons US envoy over deaths in Iraq

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called Washington's statement a "farce".

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:23pm

Stocks

Russian cut-price goods retailer Fix Price considering London, Moscow IPO

Fix Price pondering London IPO, secondary Moscow listing.
Revenue in 2020 at $2.6 billion.
CEO says company poised for expansion at home and abroad.
Sources say IPO may raise $1 billion.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:20pm

Europe

Slovenia MPs to vote on fresh bid to oust government

A vote on the motion is expected late on Monday.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:18pm

Money & Banking

Greek unit of doValue in deal with Bain Capital on National Bank bad loans

National Bank, one of Greece's four biggest lenders, completed the sale of the Icon portfolio of bad loans last week to credit specialist Bain Capital Credit, with Morgan Stanley acting as its financial adviser.
Last year Italy-based doValue acquired 80% of Greek lender Eurobank's loan servicing unit FPS and renamed it doValue-Greece.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:18pm

Sports

S.Africa urge cricket chiefs to stick up for nations outside big three

Smith said cricket's future calendar was dominated by India, England and Australia.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:15pm

Europe

'Let's think big' - Germany wants to work closely with Biden on trade, China, climate

Transatlantic coordinator outlines economic, trade proposals.
Beyer in Reuters interview urges 'ambitious free trade deal' Germany supports WTO reform to raise pressure on China.
'Violations of trade rules must be sanctioned'.
Beyer also proposes joint carbon emission trading system.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:16pm

Europe

Russia to review effectiveness of its COVID-19 vaccines against new variants

Russia has so far approved two vaccines against COVID-19, including Sputnik V, which has been deployed widely in Russia and also exported abroad.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 08:17pm

Sports

Schwarz slaloms past Pinturault for world combined gold

Schwarz nailed the fastest slalom run to pinch victory from the defending champion.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:13pm

Sports

Nobody has to worry about me, says Liverpool's Klopp

Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Leicester City left Liverpool in fourth, 13 points behind leaders Manchester City having played a game more, and led to rumours that Klopp could walk away from the club.
I am grateful for the support. But fans can think about other things, nobody needs to worry.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:14pm

Pakistan

PM Imran to visit Karachi tomorrow

During his visit, PM Imran will also meet Governor Sindh Imran Ismail and PTI leaders.
The premier will attend the ceremony of multinational maritime exercise Aman-2021 in Karachi.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:16pm

Commodities

EU 2020/21 soft wheat exports 16.25 million tonnes by Feb 14

That was down from 19.53 million tonnes cleared by the same week last season, the data showed.
EU 2020/21 barley exports had reached 4.65 million tonnes, down from 4.78 million a year ago.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:11pm

Pakistan

NEPRA directs KE to complete installation of 900 MW BQPS-III in time

This was a first-of-its-kind programme in which the selected women would become ambassadors for safety within their communities.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:11pm

Pakistan

Usman Dar to resume his responsibilities as SAPM after by-polls

He said that PDM was an 11-party alliance but it could not compete with the PTI in Daska tehsil.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:10pm

Pakistan

170 candidates filed Senate election nomination papers: ECP

He said that the ECP had appointed five Returning Officers for Islamabad and four provinces.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:09pm

Pakistan

Senate elections: 12 more candidates file nomination papers on last day

With the filing of 12 more nomination papers, the total number of candidates from Punjab had reached 29.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:07pm

Pakistan

CM chairs provincial cabinet meeting

Approval of the 200-bed mother & child hospital at the venue of old grain market godown in Multan was accorded along with the release of Rs 500 million.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:06pm

Pakistan

Nomination papers filing for Senate polls completes, 51 candidates in the run for 12 seats in KP

Polling for senate polls will be held on March 3.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:05pm

Pakistan

Saudi, Italian ambassadors call on Sindh CM

The chief minister said that an Italian firm has constructed Super-Highway from Karachi to Jamshoro- that was a state-of-art-road built in around 1965.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:03pm

Pakistan

CJ asks bars to assist JIT in identifying lawyers involved in IHC ambush

The presidents of bars were also present on the occasion and he had observed their helplessness, Justice Minallah said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:02pm

Pakistan

PM rejects OGRA’s proposal for petrol price hike by Rs 14.07

The prime minister assured the people that the government would go to any extent to provide relief to them.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:01pm

Pakistan

2,204 corona cases report in RY Khan

ADC Dr Sedrah Saleem directed that vaccination for the front line doctors and paramedics be expedited.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 08:00pm

Pakistan

Thatha Water Supply reference adjourned till Feb 22

The hearing was adjourned without proceeding due to the lawyers' strike.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:59pm

Pakistan

ATC send one more lawyer to jail

The court sought arguments from both sides on bail petitions and adjourned the case till Tuesday.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:58pm

Pakistan

UAE Ambassador calls on CM Buzdar

The UAE companies were interested in investment and were ready to invest in SEZs, he said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:40pm

Pakistan

Traffic plan issued for Karachiites ahead of PSL6 kick-off

The T20 tournament’s Karachi-leg will be played from February 20 to March 7 here at National Stadium Karachi.
The Dalmia road will remain open for small vehicles from to Stadium Signal. Heavy/public transport will not be allowed.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 07:47pm

Commodities

Copper hits highest since 2012 on inflation concerns and healthy demand

Three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange (LME) was up 0.2% at $8,349.50 a tonne.
The upper bound of that channel is $8,700, so there's another $300 and that's going to be the next target for copper.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:38pm

Pakistan

Pakistan on its way towards development, progress: President Alvi

There is need to empower all segments of our people and develop a strong culture of inclusiveness, said Alvi.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:38pm

Money & Banking

Israeli banks could resume dividends later in 2021, regulator says

Three of Israel's largest banks -- Hapoalim, Leumi and Discount -- have announced plans to launch digital wallets, which allow customers to pay via mobile phones in stores.
Following the policy in force under Avidan's predecessor, banks had to halt dividends and share buyouts in exchange for a 1% reduction in capital ratios.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:33pm

Pakistan

Saudi Ambassador calls on Sindh Governor

Governor said that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had a capacity to promote trade in various fields.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:35pm

Pakistan

Hate speeches, material not to be tolerated: Ashrafi

He said that legal action would be taken against elements responsible for religious extremism, and anarchy in the country.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:34pm

Companies

KPMG's South Africa arm to stop offering ‘non-audit-related services’

A number of firms, including Barclays Africa and Sibanye-Stillwater, and the national government have stopped using KPMG.
Non-audit-related services include consulting, business analysis, and legal or expert services unrelated to the audit.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:31pm

Pakistan

Over a thousand Digital Franchise Post Offices established: Murad Saeed

He said that all the state own institutions should stand on their feet and government working to make them profitable through reforms.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:33pm

Pakistan

IT minister appointed as STI President

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey and several other world leaders are members of the organization.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:31pm

Stocks

Global shares hit fresh peak, oil up on Middle East tensions

MSCI World index up 0.4% to record high.
Follows similarly strong moves in Asia overnight.
Oil prices at highest since January 2020.
Risk appetite higher on virus vaccine rollout, US stimulus.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:29pm

Pakistan

Gold prices decrease Rs200 to Rs111,050 per tola

The price of per tola silver decreased by Rs20.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:30pm

Europe

Spanish house sales tumble in 2020 amid pandemic

Once the confinement began winding down, house sales grew," said a spokeswoman for online property portal Fotocasa on Monday.
The Balearic and Canary Islands, two archipelagos favoured by tourists and international investors, respectively lost 20% and 17% of their house sales volume in 2020.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:28pm

Pakistan

FBR's track and Trace System to be rolled out by July: Senate Committee told

The system would also monitor the beverages and help to overcome the issues of under-invoicing as well as expanding the tax base.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:29pm

Pakistan

Science & Tech minister, MPA call on PM

The prime minister directed to resolve the issues faced by common man on priority basis.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:28pm

Stocks

Sri Lankan shares end lower as financials, consumer stocks weigh

The benchmark stock index fell 0.97% to 7,907.27 at the end of the trading session after having closed 5.1% firmer on Friday.
The Sri Lankan rupee was last quoted at 194 against the US dollar.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:26pm

Pakistan

Barrister Murtaza inaugurates urban forest at Clifton beach

The provincial government had initiated an urban forestry project on the coast under Public Private Partnership with an NGO SRO, he added.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:26pm

USA

Colombia's first COVID-19 vaccines to arrive Monday

Today we remember all the victims of COVID-19, the more than 57,000 irreplaceable Colombians who have left a void and who we will honor fighting the virus with a vaccine.
This afternoon the first shipment of vaccines from the pharmaceutical company Pfizer with the first 50,000 vaccines will arrive in our country from Belgium.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:25pm

Pakistan

Senate body on Communications amendments in ‘The National Highways Safety’ bill

The committee asked regarding number of Toll Plazas established on the Highways and Motorways in the country, for consideration and report.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:25pm

Pakistan

Opposition parties in Sindh to secure 5 out of 11 seats in Senate Election 2021: Minister

He said PTI, GDA and MQM-P are on the same page and the Senate Election 2021, will be held in a free, fair, and transparent manner.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:21pm

Africa

J&J's vaccine implementation study in S.Africa gets regulator nod

South Africa hardest hit by COVID-19 on continent.
Govt still reviewing J&J's full market application.
Implementation study is to vaccinate health workers.
S.Africa expected to receive J&J vaccines this week.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:23pm

Forex

Dollar weakens as market optimism lifts riskier currencies

The improved risk appetite was also reflected in equities, with European indexes rising after Japanese stocks surged to a more than 30-year high earlier in the day.
The dollar index slipped 0.1%, close to last week's low of 90.249 - a level unseen since Jan. 27.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:21pm

Pakistan

PSX gains 567 points to close at 46,375 points

As many as 405 companies transacted shares in the stock market, 246 of them recorded gain and 141 sustained losses.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:23pm

Africa

Cambodia detects first cases of UK coronavirus variant

The health ministry said the cases with the UK variant were two people from India and one from China, all of whom had been isolated.
The B1.1.7 variant, first found in Britain, is highly transmissible and its discovery prompted a tightening of travel restrictions globally among countries keen to keep it at bay.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:19pm

Pakistan

Media’s role imperative in removing misconception about COVID-19 vaccine: Naseem

Naseem said the coronavirus was still a looming threat and “It is early to celebrate the victory against the contagion.”

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:19pm

Money & Banking

UBS investment bank co-chief Novelli to join Euronext as chairman

Karofksy to be sole president of UBS investment bank.
Co-head Novelli set to become chairman of Euronext.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:17pm

Pakistan

Two more corona patients die in Faisalabad

He said that 550 beds were allocated at the Allied Hospital and 85 at the DHQ Hospital for COVID-19 patients.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:18pm

Pakistan

COVID-19 claims 7 more patients, infects 254 others

The chief minister urged people of the province to follow SOPs.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:16pm

South Asia

India to ship COVID-19 vaccines to Canada as diplomatic tension eases

Trudeau said the months-long protests by farmers on the outskirts of Delhi were concerning, drawing a rebuke from the Indian government which said it was an internal matter.
Modi also said India would do its best to supply COVID-19 vaccines sought by Canada.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:15pm

Pakistan

Provinces directed to ensure supply of regulated wheat flour

Secretary Ministry of NFS&R updated NPMC about availability of sufficient stock of wheat across the country.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:15pm

Energy

Oil hits 13-month highs as market re-balances

Prices rally as producers rein in supply.
Brent, WTI hit highest levels since January 2020.
US stimulus hopes, tighter supplies support rally.
Possible strike could hit Norway's crude production.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:12pm

Pakistan

IHC serves notices in lawyers' bail petitions

Earlier, ATC had dismissed the post arrest bail case of four accused lawyers.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:13pm

Pakistan

NHA to start work on improvement, widening of N-45 section

The project will also help promote trade with neighbouring Central Asian countries by improving major arterial roads and bridges in KP province.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:12pm

South Asia

India's Jan trade deficit narrows to $14.54bn

The merchandise trade deficit was $15.3 billion in January 2020.
The merchandise exports rose 6.16% in January from a year earlier to $27.45 billion, while imports were up 2.03% to $42 billion, the data showed.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:09pm

Pakistan

PM directs economic team to suggest out-of-box solutions for reducing burden of indirect taxes

The prime minister was presiding over a meeting on the steps to bring down the prices of essential commodities.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:10pm

Europe

Portugal's tourism sector slumps back to 1980s levels amid pandemic

The National Statistics Institute (INE) said just under 4 million foreign tourists stayed in Portuguese hotels in 2020, a near 76% slump from a record 16.4 million in 2019.
Overnight stays by Britons, one of the country's biggest foreign markets, fell by over 78% from a year ago.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:07pm

Pakistan

PTCL, Huawei launch SCCS for enterprise customers

The solution included the services of AI Enabled WIFI-6 Campus, Software Defined LAN and Software defined WAN (SD-WAN) as a service.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:09pm

Pakistan

IESCO provides connections to CDA approved housing societies: Senate body told

The Committee members asserted that CEO IESCO must consult with all concerned departments so that loop holes.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:59pm

Commodities

White sugar edges higher, London cocoa also up

May white sugar rose by $2.20, or 0.5%, to $454.80 a tonne.
May London cocoa rose by 16 pounds, or 1.0%, to 1,665 pounds a tonne.
May robusta coffee was down $3, or 0.2%, at $1,364 a tonne.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 07:03pm

Money & Banking

France's BNP to stop financing firms farming deforested land in the Amazon

Financial institutions exposed to the agricultural sector in Brazil must contribute to this fight against deforestation. This is the case for BNP Paribas.
BNP Paribas is giving traders five more years to clear forests with impunity.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:59pm

Companies

Siemens Healthineers to win EU approval for $16.4bn Varian buy

Siemens Healthineers, spun off and floated in 2018 by Siemens, announced the acquisition in August last year.
"We are in constructive talks with the EU," a Siemens Healthineers spokesman said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:55pm

Pakistan

PM thanks overseas Pakistanis for record $2bn remittances for consecutive 8 months

He said to date in this fiscal year, the remittances were up by 24 percent as compared to last year.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:58pm

Forex

Russian rouble hits more than 1-month high on soaring oil prices

The rouble was 0.6% stronger against the dollar at 73.24, hovering at levels seen before Navalny's return to Russia last month. It briefly hit 73.1250, its strongest mark since Jan. 14.
The rouble had gained 0.5% to trade at 88.87 versus the euro , earlier touching a more than two-month high of 88.8000.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:56pm

Pakistan

Increase in remittances shows trust of overseas Pakistanis in PM: Shilbi

It was the 8th consecutive month for remittances to be above $ two billion and this was a record for Pakistan.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:56pm

Pakistan

COVID Vaccination: Registration for citizens above 65 years age starts

He said vaccinations for this age group would start by next month.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:54pm

Money & Banking

Poland's C/A surplus at 430mn euros in December

Economists polled by Reuters had expected a surplus of 1.005 billion euros in December.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:42pm

Pakistan

COVID-19 claims 26 lives, infects 1,048 more people

During the last 24 hours most of the deaths had occurred in the Punjab followed by KP.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:51pm

Europe

Erdogan says US supports militants who executed Turks in Iraq

Turkey said on Sunday militants from the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) executed the captives, including military and police personnel, amid a military operation against the group.
Now there is a statement made by the United States. It's a joke. Were you not supposed to stand against the PKK, the YPG? You clearly support them and stand behind them.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:50pm

Pakistan

NCOC approached to include ‘Panahgah’ workers’ as font-liner for COVID vaccine

Health workers will be vaccinated in the first phase, people aged 60 and above in second and those from 18 to 60 years in the third phase.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:49pm

Energy

Front quarter set for worst day in a year on wetter outlook

Nordic front-year lost 0.55 euro or 2%, to 26.95 euros/MWh, also on-track for its biggest fall since Jan. 15
Weather forecasts have changed during the weekend - now less cold, more precipitation and stronger winds are forecast.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:45pm

Pakistan

Rupee sheds 46 paisas against US dollar

Buying and selling rates of dollar were recorded at Rs158.8 and Rs159.4 respectively.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:48pm

Pakistan

Coronavirus claims 14 more lives, pushes death toll to 435 in Punjab

The Punjab health department conducted 3,113,863 tests for COVID-19 so far, while 151,896 confirmed patients recovered altogether in the province.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:46pm

Pakistan

FM to visit Egypt on Feb 16-18

Qureshi will also interact with leading Egyptian businessmen and members of the Pakistani community, the FO said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:45pm

Pakistan

OGDCL injects 14 new wells in production gathering system during 2nd quarter

The company has also secured 11 new Exploration and Production (E&P) blocks during a recent bidding-round held for award of 20 blocks by the Petroleum Division.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:44pm

Africa

South Africa's ex-president Zuma fails to show at corruption inquiry

Zuma ousted as head of state in 2018.
Nine years in power marred by scandal.
Summoned to appear at corruption inquiry.
Does not show up to give evidence.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:44pm

Pakistan

IHC attack case heard, ATC send accused lawyer to jail

The judge also directed the lawyers to present their arguments on the bail petitions on Tuesday (tomorrow).

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:44pm

Sports

Lot of great lessons to learn by touring Pakistan, says South African coach, Mark Boucher

Boucher praised Mohammad Rizwan’s outstanding run with the bat. Rizwan hit purple patch in the series winning the player of the series awards in both Tests and T20Is.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:42pm

Europe

Hungary's PM seeks renewal of special powers to fight COVID-19

The Hungarian drug regulator has also granted approval to Chinese Sinopharm's vaccine, also a first in the EU.
We want more than just (to) turn the 'Closed' sign on our door. We want to reopen the economy and the entire civic life.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:40pm

South Asia

Iran says it will end snap IAEA inspections if nuclear deal terms not met

If others do not fulfil their obligations by Feb. 21, the government is obliged to suspend the voluntary implementation of the Additional Protocol.
It does not mean ending all inspections by the UN nuclear watchdog...All these steps are reversible if the other party changes its path and honours its obligations.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:38pm

Sports

Misbah hints at playing with Malik, Hafeez in T20 World Cup

Misbah said that he was happy to see debutant leg-spinner Zahid Mahmood doing well.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:34pm

Europe

French Finance Minister: talks ongoing with EU over possible further aid for Air France

Le Maire also told reporters at a briefing that he wanted any future remedies for Air France to be of a sustainable nature for the airline.
Earlier this month, Air France and its pilot unions had protested against EU demands that the airline give up takeoff and landing slots at its Paris base in return for government aid.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:37pm

Sports

Liverpool favourites but Leipzig lifted by winning run

We are in a good flow. We have won the last four matches while Liverpool have not won five out of their last seven.
They are the slight favourites based on their international experience but we have shown that we can hold our own against such teams, both last year and this season with a very tough group stage.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:35pm

South Asia

Renesas to resume chip production at quake hit plant on Tuesday

The 7.3 magnitude tremor off Japan's northeast coast caused strong shaking at the Naka factory in Ibaraki prefecture, which has the company's only cutting-edge 300-millimeter fabrication line.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned that aftershocks from the latest quake could last for several days.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:33pm

Pakistan

Record increase in remittances over last eight months: PM

He said large scale manufacturing saw another double digit growth of 11.4 percent in the month of December last year.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:33pm

Companies

Drillisch signs deals with D.Telekom, Telefonica Deutschland to advance 5G rollout

The deals advance Drillisch's plans to roll out a fourth 5G network in Germany, the subsidiary of United Internet said, and sent its shares and those of its parent sharply higher in early trading.
In addition, an agreement on national roaming would constitute an essential prerequisite for 1&1 Drillisch's envisaged rollout of a high-performance 5G network.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:32pm

Pakistan

India fulfilling hegemonic designs to rule Indian Ocean: FM

Qureshi said India’s belligerent and aggressive policies pose an immediate and pervasive threat to international and regional peace and security.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:32pm

Money & Banking

Ex-UniCredit CEO Mustier, LVMH's Arnault form SPAC for financial deals

Mustier was previously UniCredit chief executive.
SPACs have grown in popularity on Wall St and in Europe.
SPACs have raised $45.7 billion so far this year.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:30pm

Pakistan

Registration of citizens aged 65, above starts for anti-corona vaccines: Minister

He said the registration can be done by sending CNIC number on 1166.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:31pm

Pakistan

Govt focuses to enforce human rights' protection laws: Mazari

She said child domestic labor has been proscribed through a piece of legislation.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:29pm

Europe

Kremlin calls Musk's idea for Putin to join Clubhouse app interesting, seeks details

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was commenting after Musk tweeted to the Kremlin on Sunday: "Would you like join me for a conversation on Clubhouse?"

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:27pm

Pakistan

Govt taking steps for promotion of tourism: Zartaj Gul

She said the government is taking steps for the promotion of tourism including eco-tourism.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:28pm

Money & Banking

India shortlists four banks for potential privatisation

The four banks on the shortlist are Bank of Maharashtra , Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank and the Central Bank of India.
Two of those banks will be selected for sale in the 2021/2022 financial year which begins in April, the officials said. The shortlist has not previously been reported.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:24pm

Pakistan

Free, fair Senate elections can only lead to real democracy: Faisal Javed

He said Prime Minister is committed to bring transparency in elections process.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:27pm

Pakistan

Govt focusing on various projects to stabilize economy: Bakhtyar

The Minister said the overall performance of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is satisfactory in execution of foreign funded projects.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:24pm

South Asia

Indonesia lifts economic recovery budget again to over $49bn

Initially earmarked at 372.3 trillion rupiah, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati has gradually lifted the programme's budget several times.
The budget for social assistance would be 150.21 trillion rupiah, below last year's 220.4 trillion.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:22pm

Pakistan

SC summons ECP Chief, others members in Presidential reference hearing

The CJP remarked that election should be conducted in secret but it should also be open to an investigation if a complaint is lodged regarding it.
ECP's legal representative said that secrecy is the mandate of Article 226.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 06:26pm

Pakistan

SHC notices Defense Secy, DHA on a plea seeking water and audit

The court served notices on authorities concerned, ordering them to submit their replies within three weeks.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:23pm

Middle East

Israel cancels participation in UAE defence expo, citing air travel curbs

Dozens of Israeli defence firms had been due to take part in the IDEX conference in Abu Dhabi from Feb. 21-25 - a first for both countries.
A Regional Cooperation Ministry spokesman said the request "had to be denied, despite the desire to advance promote defence activity.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:20pm

Pakistan

Maritime Conference: Qureshi says CPEC rightfully considered game changer for economic uplift

Qureshi highlighted that government is cognizant of the importance of Blue Economy and taking all possible measures for its development.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:23pm

Pakistan

Saudi Arabia ambassador visits FPCCI, seeks removal of trade barriers

He informed that the share of Pakistan in Saudi Arabia’s trade is just 1 percent; while in Pakistan’s trade is approximately 7 percent.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 06:22pm

South Asia

Smaller protests in Myanmar as junta deploys more soldiers, armoured vehicles

Smaller protests in several cities.
Military deploys armoured vehicles, more soldiers.
Security forces fire rubber bullets in Mandalay.
Internet restored after overnight suspension.
Groups of protesters begin to gather in Yangon.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:18pm

Money & Banking

Chile benchmark rate to rise to 0.75pc in 12 months

Consumer prices are seen rising 0.40% in February, with inflation estimated at 3.15% over the next 12 months - within the central bank's 2%-4% target range.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:17pm

Commodities

Russian wheat export prices down with global benchmarks

Moscow's wheat export tax and a grain export quota, launched on Monday as part of efforts to reduce food inflation amid the coronavirus pandemic, have already been priced in, they said.
Sovecon, another Moscow consultancy, said wheat prices fell by $4 to $281, while barley was unchanged at $248.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:15pm

Europe

Erdogan says US supports militants who executed Turkish forces in Iraq

Turkey said on Sunday militants from the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) executed the 13 Turks, including military and police personnel, amid a military operation against the group.
Erdogan told supporters of his AK Party that the US statement showed it supported the PKK and the Syrian Kurdish YPG force, which Ankara considers an offshoot of the PKK.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:13pm

South Asia

Japan extends economic recovery as exports, capex shake off COVID hit

Q4 GDP beats forecasts.
Strong exports, rebound in capex underpin economy.
New curbs to contain pandemic cloud economic outlook.
Sustained recovery dependent of vaccine rollout – analysts.
Other Asian economies seen improving.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:09pm

Financial

Czech current account surplus a record in 2020 on weak dividend outflow

The result, equal to about 3.2% of gross domestic product, follows a deficit of 16.96 billion crowns in 2019.
The development of the current account is favourable due to growing exports of goods, low imports and a weak outflow of dividends.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:07pm

Commodities

Algeria issues tender to buy milling wheat, traders say

The latest OAIC wheat tender also specified that wheat should be shipped to two Algerian ports, Mostaganem and Tenes.
"The two ports specified are relatively small and this may mean using smaller bulk carriers than usually booked to ship Algerian wheat sales," one trader said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:03pm

Energy

India ONGC sees peak gas output from east coast block in 2024

ONGC to transfer its entire gas business in a new subsidiary.
Want local gas prices to top $3.5/mmBtu.
Sees new gas unit to be a profit centre.
To bid for its own gas through new gas unit.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 06:01pm

Financial

Euro zone bond yields jump as reflation trade bites

German, French, Dutch 10-yr bond yields highest since Sept.
German 30-Bund yield at 30-month high.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:57pm

Forex

Nigeria naira quoted at record low in one-month forward market

One-month naira non-deliverable forwards stood at 416 points, from Friday's close of 414, Refinitiv data showed.
Spot market naira closed at a record low of 410.50 per dollar on the over-the-counter market on Friday.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:57pm

Commodities

ICE March white sugar delivery totals 511,750 tonnes

The sugar included 205,600 tonnes of Guatemalan white sugar, 122,600 from India, 108,000 from Algeria, 39,550 from Brazil, 30,000 from Egypt and 6,000 from El Salvador.
The buyers were BNP Paribas SA (411,750 tonnes) and Sucden Financial (100,000).

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:55pm

Money & Banking

Raiffeisen Bank International buys FX, payment provider Akcenta

RBI said it plans to acquire 70% of Akcenta and its Czech subsidiary would buy the remaining 30%.
RBI, which did not say how much it agreed to pay, expects the acquisition to be closed by end of May.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:52pm

Europe

UK PM Johnson says: lockdown exit will be sensible to avoid 'reverse ferret'

"That's the data we're having to look at and really work out what is going on," Johnson said.
"What people don't want to see is you know just being forced into reverse - we don't want to do you know a reverse ferret - let's take it at the right pace," he said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:40pm

Telecommunication

Twitter to label personal accounts of Heads of State

Twitter will be adding labels to the personal accounts of heads of state starting next week as part of its policy for government-affiliated accounts.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:41pm

Sports

Serena not 'obsessed' with Court's Slam record, says coach

Mouratoglou said Williams was moving better than at any time since giving birth.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:32pm

World

New Zealand's largest city enters lockdown as UK variant found

Ardern's office meanwhile announced that the first batch of coronavirus vaccines arrived in New Zealand on Monday.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:30pm

Stocks

Asian markets extend rally on recovery bets, eyes on stimulus

The optimism has pushed oil prices to highs not seen since last January.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:28pm

Sports

Rublev to face Medvedev as Russians make history at Australian Open

Fourth seed Medvedev's best Grand Slam performance to date was reaching the final at the 2019 US Open.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:26pm

Sports

Tsitsipas through to Nadal clash as Berrettini pulls out of Open

The Italian was due to play in the late night match on Rod Laver Arena, but withdrew hours before it was due to start.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:24pm

Companies

Bayer aims to deliver first doses of CureVac's COVID-19 shot in Q4

We are very confident that we will even be able to deliver the first vaccines before the end of the year, if all goes well.
German biotech company CureVac, which began late-stage testing of the vaccine in December and expects to announce interim results this quarter

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:20pm

Africa

Nigerian president appeals for unity after ethnic clashes

Buhari in a statement late on Sunday "condemned such violence and gave assurance that his government will act decisively to stop the spread of any such violence."

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:21pm

South Asia

Himalaya flood disaster hits Delhi water supply

The Rishiganga valley in Uttarakhand state is 530 kilometres (330 miles) upstream to the northeast of Delhi but its water is a key supplier for the capital.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:19pm

Middle East

Yemen's Houthis say they have struck Saudi's Jeddah, Abha airports with drones

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the attacks halted operations at the airports for two hours as a result.
The Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthis in Yemen said early on Monday morning it had intercepted and destroyed an explosive-laden drone fired by the Houthis toward the kingdom.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:17pm

Africa

Defiant Zuma snubs S.African anti-graft panel, again

The court in January ruled that Zuma had no right to remain silent during the proceedings.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:17pm

Sports

Kohli, Ashwin fifties boost India victory charge against England

India reached 221 for eight at tea in Chennai after resuming the day on 54-1.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:16pm

Sports

Quotes from day eight of the Australian Open

I am very motivated to win Grand Slams. The only thing that I said is I have never been obsessed.
We're not done yet. It's exciting to be in another quarter-final of a Grand Slam... but certainly not satisfied with where we're at the moment.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:15pm

Middle East

Israeli strikes on Syria kill 9 militia fighters: monitor

The attack began shortly after midnight and lasted for nearly half an hour, it said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:13pm

Sports

Muchova edges Mertens to reach Australian Open last eight

Muchova next plays world number one Ashleigh Barty.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:11pm

South Asia

Japan quake knocks out 20pc of country's refining capacity

They refinery shutdowns in the world's fourth-biggest oil importer are another potential hit after the pandemic led to the evaporation of crude demand over the last year.
Eneos later said the company's 270,000 bpd Negishi refinery, had also closed and it had no date for the resumption of operations.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:11pm

Sports

Barty beats Rogers to storm into Australian Open quarters

Barty plays 25th seed Karolina Muchova in the quarter-finals after the Czech beat 18th seed Elise Mertens 7-6 (7/5), 7-5.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:09pm

Money & Banking

Uganda central bank holds key lending rate, says economy has lost momentum

The bank said "The economic upturn is proceeding at an uneven pace" as anti-coronavirus measures continue to weigh on economic activities like education, hospitality and tourism.
Uganda had one of Africa's tightest anti-coronavirus lockdowns, including a near-total shutdown of all businesses but the most essential.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:07pm

Europe

UK rolls out hotel quarantine for 'high risk' country returnees

It has vaccinated 15 million of the most vulnerable people with a first jab, and is looking to inoculate all over-50s by May.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:06pm

South Asia

France 'helped Rwanda genocide suspects escape' in 1994

It is signed by Bernard Emie, a foreign ministry adviser who is now the head of France's DGSE foreign intelligence service.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:05pm

Europe

Malta frets as foreign nurses head to Britain amid COVID-19 crisis

Some 600 third-country national nurses work in Malta, but roughly 150 have moved abroad or else handed in their resignation since December. * Recruitment agencies in Britain and India have run Facebook adverts urging nurses in Malta to apply for jobs in Britain.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:04pm

South Asia

Stay-at-home orders in Vietnam Covid-19 hotspot

As of Monday morning, Vietnam had tallied 2,229 coronavirus cases and 35 deaths across a population of 95 million.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:03pm

Sports

Shiffrin ready to pounce in combined at Cortina worlds

The second part of the combined, the slalom, will be raced at 1210 GMT.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:01pm

Companies

All JLR cars to be fully electric by 2030; Jaguar all electric by 2025

JLR, owned by India's Tata Motors, said on Monday the Jaguar brand will lead the way with a fully electric model range built on a brand-new electric platform by 2025.
Land Rover will launch six pure electric models in the next five years with the first one coming in 2024, JLR said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:56pm

Sports

Ashwin hits century as India set England 482 to win second Test

Earlier, Ashwin took five wickets to help bowl out England for 134 in response to India's first innings 329.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 05:00pm

Sports

Nadal closes on Slams record, Barty raises home hopes at Australian Open

Nadal said his lower-back stiffness was continuing to improve after his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 against the flamboyant Italian.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:58pm

South Asia

Singapore activist jailed for train protest

They were demanding "justice" for a group of 22 people arrested in 1987 under tough laws that allow for detention without trial.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:56pm

South Asia

More protests after Myanmar junta cuts internet, deploys troops

Some carried banners against the military that read: "They kill in (the) day. They steal at night. They lie on TV."

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:55pm

Stocks

Tokyo's Nikkei closes above 30,000, first time since 1990

The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.91 percent, or 564.08 points, to 30,084.15, the highest close since 1990.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:53pm

South Asia

Myanmar's Suu Kyi to face court this week: lawyer

Neither has been publicly seen since the coup, though Suu Kyi's party has heard that she is "in good health".

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:51pm

Africa

Two Malian soldiers killed in highway blast

The deaths bring the number of Malian, UN and French troop losses to 29 since the start of the year, according to an AFP tally.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:50pm

Africa

Zimbabwe gets first batch of Sinopharm jabs from China

As of Sunday, Zimbabwe had recorded 35,172 cases of the viral infection including 1,400 deaths.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:48pm

South Asia

Bali police hunt Russian wanted by Interpol

Police said Kovalenko was wanted by Interpol but declined to specify what crime he committed overseas.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:44pm

Europe

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle expecting second child

Meghan and Harry, who is Queen Elizabeth II's grandson, quit frontline royal duties in March last year and now live in California.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:43pm

Europe

Coronavirus toll at 1100 GMT Monday

At least 108,785,960 cases of coronavirus have been registered. Of these, at least 66,547,800 are now considered recovered.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:40pm

Pakistan

Pakistani student Zara Naeem scores highest marks in ACCA exam worldwide

Minister for Information Shibli Faraz has also praised Zara for her accomplishment.
Naeem plans to start her own consultancy firm after attaining ACCA membership.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 04:42pm

South Asia

Indonesian landslide kills nine with 10 missing

Twenty-one people were initially reported missing after the disaster struck Sunday evening in a rural part of East Java.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:40pm

Pakistan

Maryam says she will not request govt to remove her name from ECL

PML-N vice-president said she needs to undergo a surgery that can’t be performed in Pakistan
Maryam says PPP leader Yousaf Raza Gillani is a joint candidate of the PDM for Senate elections

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 04:31pm

Automobile

Jaguar Land Rover unveils plans to go 100% electric

The Tata Motors-owned group’s strategy - internally referred to as “Reimagine” - comes as car groups worldwide accelerate moves towards fleets powered by electric and other green technologies.
Land Rover will add six pure electric variants in the next five years and future Jaguar models will be built exclusively on a pure electric architecture, JLR said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:20pm

Middle East

Iran says it will end snap IAEA inspections if nuclear deal terms not met

Iran said on Monday it will block snap inspections by the U.N. nuclear watchdog this month if other parties to the 2015 nuclear deal fail to fulfil their obligations, a challenge to U.S. President Joe Biden’s hope of reviving the accord.
The Biden administration aims to return the United States to the nuclear deal, which then-President Donald Trump abandoned in 2018. Under the deal, Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 03:56pm

Companies

Nissan denies being part of Apple car discussions

Nissan denied recent reports about it being in talks with Apple Inc for the tech giant's autonomous car project.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 03:57pm

Technology

PTA receives ISO 9001:2015 certification

ISO 9001:2015 is an internationally recognized standard of consistency and competency using robust quality management systems designed to encourage continuous improvement and enhance customer satisfaction.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 03:51pm

Technology

Nissan says 'not in talks with Apple' over autonomous car project

“We are not in talks with Apple,” a Nissan spokeswoman said.
“However, Nissan is always open to exploring collaborations and partnerships to accelerate industry transformation."

Published 15 Feb, 2021 03:39pm

Pakistan

MQM-P withdraws decision for not contesting Senate elections

The deadline to submit the nomination papers for the upcoming Senate polls falls today.
Amir Khan has decided to submit his nomination papers after being insisted on by the party members.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 03:23pm

Business & Finance

Govt express satisfaction over multi-billion dollar foreign-funded projects in KP

These thirty projects are being implemented with help of development partners like World Bank, Asian Development Bank, USAID, China, UK, Saudi Fund, Germany, and France.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 03:12pm

Pakistan

Sharjeel Memon other accused appear before accountability court

The witness stated that he has provided related records from 2013 to 2015 to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) besides recording his statements before the investigation officer Ali Raza in the case.
After hearing the argument, the accountability court adjourned the hearing till March 10.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 02:50pm

Pakistan

Pursuit of military dominance in Indian Ocean threatens its potential: Qureshi

FM says India has nuclearized the Indian Ocean and continues to induct advanced weapons systems and naval delivery platforms to fulfill its hegemonic designs
Qureshi says 2020 was declared the year of the blue economy, which is a new concept that recognises the seas as an essential area for economic development

Published 15 Feb, 2021 02:43pm

Middle East

Syrian air defences intercepted 'Israeli aggression’ over Damascus

On Monday, the Syrian Army issued a statement that the country's air defenses intercepted "Israeli aggression" over the capital city of Damascus, in the latest surge in the bombardment of alleged Iranian targets inside the country over the past two months.
Witnesses heard large explosions on the southern edge of Damascus, according to local residents.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 02:09pm

Business & Finance

Bitcoin rally falters just short of $50,000 as investors take profit

Bitcoin fell as much as 5.6% to $45,914 in Asian trading hours, after having posting a record high of $49,714.66 on Sunday. Rival crypto ethereum slid more than 8%, though both later pared some of those losses.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 02:02pm

Business & Finance

SBP setting up one window portal, informs Kamil

Talking to a private channel, SBP Deputy Governor said that one window portal would be set up soon for the convenience of the people.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 01:40pm

Pakistan

Torkham opens for pedestrian travel

The crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan is now open 6 days a week for pedestrian traffic.
Before, Afghans would cross the Torkham border four days a week.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 01:23pm

Pakistan

Soldier martyred in terrorists fire raid on FC post in Balochistan

The military's media wing says that the terrorists targeted an FC post located in Kech District
During an intense exchange of fire, Sepoy Asad Mehdi embraced shahadat while repulsing raiding terrorists

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 01:22pm

Business & Finance

Pakistan's Sputnik-V vaccine distributor denies agreement with diagnostic centre

“It is hereby clarified that AGP Limited, so far has not entered into a supply agreement with any hospital or Diagnostic Centre (including the Diagnostic Centre in question) for the supply of Sputnik-V vaccine either directly or indirectly in Pakistan,” said the company.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 01:03pm

Business & Finance

Pakistan cement manufacturer installs 7.5MW WHRPP to save costs

The company on Monday announced that it has successfully completed the installation and commissioning of a 7.5-megawatt Waste Heat Recovery Power Plant (WHRPP) at its site in Mangowal, district Khushab.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 12:03pm

Pakistan

Murad Raas tests positive for COVID-19

Raas says those who came in contact with him in the past few days should get tested
The country's coronavirus tally jumped to 564,077 after 1,048 people tested positive for the novel virus in the last 24 hours

Published 15 Feb, 2021 11:40am

Business & Finance

Nikkei back above 30,000 after more than three decades

Japanese stocks have capitalised on an anticipated global rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic this year, with the abundance of cyclical shares, such as electronic parts makers, attracting global investors.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 11:34am

Business & Finance

Singapore on path to recovery as fourth-quarter GDP shrinks less than estimated

Gross domestic product (GDP) fell 2.4% year-on-year in the quarter, the ministry of trade and industry said on Monday, versus the 3.8% drop seen in the government’s advance estimate. Analysts had expected a contraction of 3.5%, according to a Reuters poll.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 11:32am

Business & Finance

Improvement in EODB rankings boost cos registration in Pakistan, says Dawood

“When compared to 2018, companies registration increased by 54pc in 2020. In January 2021, a total of 2,201 companies were registered with SECP which is up by 12pc as compared to the previous month,” he said.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 11:00am

China

Russian Vaccine Team to Conduct Combined Trial with Chinese Counterparts

Russian developers are in talks with China's CanSino Biologics Inc., in an effort to test a combined regimen of their shots to better protect against new virus strains.
The Russian Direct Investment Fund, a partner in the Sputnik V vaccine program, forged a preliminary agreement with the CanSino and Petrovax Pharm, to reportedly conduct testing in Russia.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 10:57am

Pakistan

After PM's notice, govt issues warning letters to 263 under-performing officers

The report states that the quality of response to the citizens showed that the system was left in the hands of lower subordinates and they made majority of the decisions
Many resolved complaints were lacking a letter, notification or picture, complaints were dropped on wrong pleas and many were decided at an unauthorised level: Report

Published 15 Feb, 2021 10:55am

Pakistan

A press conference to discuss missing mounters situation will be held today

The search mission for the missing mountaineers has said that the satellite images have turned out to be a sleeping bag, torn tents or sleeping pads, none of which belong to the climbers.
Muhammad Ali Sadpara, Juan Pablo Mohr and John Snorri Sigurjonsson have been missing since February 5.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 10:49am

Pakistan

Chitrali doctor authors best seller book on Ophthalmology

Eye surgeon Dr Zubaida Sirang has become the first Pakistani doctor to make it to the list of Book Authority
The book is written for ophthalmology students as a last-minute revision tool

Published 15 Feb, 2021 10:31am

Pakistan

People aged 65 and above can now register for COVID-19 vaccination, announces Asad Umar

Explaining the registration process, Asad wrote: 'Just write down ur CNIC number and send a message on 1166.'
On February 3, Pakistan began its vaccination drive with the Chinese Sinopharm vaccine.

Updated 15 Feb, 2021 10:05am

Pakistan

Pakistan reports 26 deaths, 1,048 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

The country also reported 910 recoveries in the last 24 hours.
Registration for coronavirus vaccination for people aged 65 years and above has also started from Monday.

Published 15 Feb, 2021 04:53am

Currency	Rate
USD PKR Interbank Selling / Jun 24	278.40
USD PKR Interbank Buying / Jun 24	278.20
USD to Japanese Yen / Jun 24	161.74
USD to Swiss Franc / Jun 24	0.81
Pound Sterling to USD / Jun 24	1.32
Euro to USD / Jun 24	1.14
SOFR % / Jun 24	3.62

Stock	Volume
S&P 500 / Jun 24	7,358.22
India Sensex / Jun 24	76,991.22
Tokyo Nikkei / Jun 24	69,174.97
Nasdaq / Jun 24	25,476.63
Hang Seng / Jun 24	23,412.18
FTSE 100 / Jun 24	10,461.63
Dow Jones / Jun 24	51,848.90
Germany DAX 30 / Jun 24	24,740.36
France CAC40 / Jun 24	8,385.49

Item	Value
Crude Oil USD/Barrel / Jun 24	69.79
Karachi Cotton PKR/37.32 KG / Jun 24	18,280
Gold 10 Grams PKR / Jun 24	368,985
Gold Spot USD/Ounce / Jun 24	4,013.58
Cotton US¢/pound / Jun 24	76.26
Petrol/Litre / Jun 25	299.50
Diesel/Litre / Jun 25	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