News Archives for Latest - 2021-02-19

Pakistan

Aaj Entertainment broadcasts first-ever cricket match live from Gwadar

This exhibition match has been organized by singer-song writer, actor and anchor Fakhr-e-Alam on 19th Feb in the lush green stadium of Gwadar amidst the mountains of Balochistan.
The first-ever cricket match was played in the Gwadar Cricket stadium on the 19th of February, and was broadcasted live on Aaj Entertainment.

Updated 20 Feb, 2021 12:27pm

Pakistan

Fencing alongside Afghanistan, Iran borders to be completed by June: Shaikh Rashid

The minister made the announcement after an aerial visit of the areas near the Pak-Iran border including Gwadar, Turbat, Mand and other areas.
Rashid also visited Rimdan-Gabd border gateway at the border along with IG Frontier Corps Balochistan South Major General Ayman Bilal.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:31pm

Energy

German 2020 gas imports down 2pc yr-yr, Dec alone up 9pc

Gas, power and carbon traders monitor gas imports because the supply and demand balance can change prices and traded volumes in all three markets.
Gas statistics correlate with coal, which competes with gas in the production of electricity, while also giving clues about demand for mandatory European carbon emissions permits.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:18pm

Energy

US natgas futures gain as supply losses expected to 'haunt' market

Prices were also supported as US pipeline gas exports to Mexico rose to 5.1 bcf on Friday after dropping to a 13-month low of 3.8 bcf per day on Tuesday, Refinitiv Eikon data showed.
Even though we will see some warmer temperatures... there's still expectations that the loss in production is going to haunt us as we get into summer.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:15pm

Companies

AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine more effective with longer dose gap: study

The study confirmed the Anglo-Swedish drugmaker's findings from earlier this month that showed the vaccine had 76% efficacy against symptomatic coronavirus infection for three months after the first dose.
Efficacy was found to be at 81% with the longer interval of 12 weeks between the first and second dose, compared with 55% efficacy up to the six-week gap.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:17pm

Europe

G7 says to counter 'non-market' policies from China to ensure free trade

ith the aim of supporting a fair and mutually beneficial global economic system for all people, we will engage with others, especially G20 countries including large economies such as China.
As leaders, we will consult with each other on collective approaches to address non-market oriented policies and practices, and we will cooperate with others to address important global issues that impact all countries.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:12pm

Financial

Longer-term yields climb, 30-year TIPS yield goes positive

The benchmark 10-year yield was last up 5.1 basis points at 1.338%, its highest level since Feb. 26, 2020.
The 30-year US Treasury yield reached a new one-year high of 2.135%. It was last 5.7 basis points higher at 2.1327%.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:10pm

Stocks

Wall Street supported by rise in cyclical stocks

Financial, material, energy, industrial sectors gain.
Uber falls after losing UK case on worker rights.
Indexes up: Dow 0.33%, S&P 0.27%, Nasdaq 0.47%.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:06pm

USA

US factory activity slows in February but supply bottlenecks push up prices

The data was in line with economists' forecasts, with a reading above 50 indicating growth in manufacturing, which accounts for 11.9% of the US economy.
The supply chain bottlenecks, which are widespread across the manufacturing sector as well as the services industry, have led to higher prices for inputs, including raw materials.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:05pm

Europe

EU doubles contribution to COVAX with over $600mn in new funding

The contribution consists of a 300 million euro grant and 200 million euros in guarantees by the European Fund for Sustainable Development plus (EFSD+) that will back a loan by the European Investment Bank.
They are targeting to deliver 1.3 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines to 92 low- and middle-income countries by the end of 2021.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:03pm

Sports

Manchester City's Guardiola plays down role in Arteta's rise

Arteta was named Arsenal manager in December 2019 after winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups under fellow Spaniard Guardiola at City.
I don't know if I influenced him," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Arsenal.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:01pm

USA

US existing home sales unexpectedly rise in January

Home resales, which account for the bulk of US home sales, surged 23.7% on a year-on-year basis.
The inventory crunch could ease as builders step up construction, though they are facing challenges from record lumber prices as well as shortages of land and labor.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:59pm

Financial

UK bond yields head for biggest weekly rise since June

Based their latest level they are on course of just under 17 basis points the biggest since the week to June 5.
Sterling also rose above $1.40 for the first time in nearly three years on Friday although it was flat against the euro.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:57pm

Forex

Troubles at Petrobras weigh on Bovespa; Mexican peso extends deep freeze slide

Petrobras shares slide 5% as CEO resists pressure to resign.
Mexican peso down for 5th straight day; set for 2% weekly loss.
Mexico's government readying ~$5 bln Pemex lifeline –source.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:54pm

USA

Brazil 2021 inflation forecasts revised up, central bank target in spotlight

Banco Itau's economics team, led by chief economist Mario Mesquita, on Friday raised its 2021 inflation forecast to 3.8% from 3.6%, citing strong industrial price pressures.
We emphasize that the (upward) pressure of industrial costs is also being seen in other economies, given the robust demand recovery after coronavirus shock and surging commodity prices.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:49pm

USA

Biden, in Munich speech, to say democracy must prevail over autocracy

We have to defend it. Strengthen it. Renew it. We have to prove that our model isn't a relic of our history.
I know that we will meet every challenge and outpace every challenger.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:47pm

Sports

West Ham's top-four hopes will be clearer after tough run: Moyes

After the next five or six games, if we get down to single digits games to go, then I could probably start to see what could happen.
West Ham have not finished above Tottenham since 2008, though Moyes said he was not reading too much into their opponents' run of four defeats in their last five league games.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:45pm

Europe

Germany pledges additional 1.5 bn euros for COVAX and WHO

We can only get out of the pandemic with vaccinations. We need to make progress on this, at home and abroad.
With today's announcement we make clear: We're standing side-by-side with the poorest countries.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:44pm

USA

Canada says COVID-19 variants are boosting threat of a spring resurgence

The comments were the latest from medical authorities across the country expressing concern that the new variants could trigger a third wave of the coronavirus.
A new, longer-range forecast that includes variants of concern indicates a strong resurgence unless we have stringent measures and strict adherence.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:41pm

Forex

Russian rouble steadies near 74 vs dollar, Norilsk shares rally

The rouble was 0.1% weaker against the dollar at 73.99 and eased 0.3% versus the euro to trade at 89.67.
Volatility on the oil market and in risky assets may keep the sideways trend in the rouble in place. But we still think that chances for its renewed firming are slightly higher.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:40pm

Europe

'Jobs and growth' are the medicine the world needs, Johnson tells G7

G7 leaders, including Biden, meet virtually on COVID-19.
Leaders to talk about repairing the world economy.
Climate change and China also on the agenda.
Italy's Draghi to join G7 leaders' club.
Johnson asks Merkel to mute on G7 call.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:38pm

Forex

Dollar extends decline as risk appetite favors equities

The US dollar has been weighed down by a string of soft labor market data, even as President Joe Biden's proposed $1.9 trillion spending package takes shape.
What the foreign exchange market is looking at in the short term, is the dollar is going to be weak despite progress in the economy because this country has a huge deficit problem.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:36pm

USA

White House working with Facebook and Twitter to tackle anti-vaxxers

Disinformation that causes vaccine hesitancy is going to be a huge obstacle to getting everyone vaccinated and there are no larger players in that than the social media platforms.
"We are talking to them ... so they understand the importance of misinformation and disinformation and how they can get rid of it quickly."

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:35pm

Stocks

TSX flat as weak retail sales data weighs; set for weekly loss

Domestic retail sales fell 3.4% in December to $53.38 billion ($42.37 billion), the biggest monthly drop since April, as COVID-19 restrictions hit businesses, Statistics Canada said.
Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index was flat at 18,274.68 and was set to record its worst week so far this month.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:29pm

Energy

Mexico begins receiving LNG as gas supply via pipeline rises

The Marshall Island tanker Flex Courageous carrying US LNG docked on Friday at the Manzanillo terminal on the Pacific Coast, Refinitiv Eikon data showed.
A second cargo also from the United States on the tanker Seri Balhaf is waiting to discharge about 151,300 cubic meters of LNG at Mexico's Altamira terminal on the Gulf Coast.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:30pm

Stocks

Indian shares extend losses as financials slide

The NSE Nifty 50 index closed 0.91% lower at 14,981.75, while the S&P BSE Sensex ended down 0.85% at 50,889.76.
Lenders State Bank of India, Axis Bank ICIC Bank were the three biggest drags on the Nifty 50, falling between 3.5% to 3%.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:27pm

Energy

Oil extends losses as Texas prepares to ramp up output

Texas oil firms prepare for production restart.
Oil demand outlook weakened by US refinery deep freeze outages.
US-Iran relations thaw but 'long road' ahead.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:17pm

South Asia

Myanmar protester dies after 10 days on life support; pressure grows on army

Protesters gather daily for two weeks.
UN calls on security forces to avoid using force.
Japan, India, US, Australia agree on need to restore democracy.
Military had said it expected sanctions.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:24pm

Commodities

Raw sugar nears four-year peak, arabica also up

March raw sugar rose by 0.4 cent, or 2.3%, to 17.91 cents per lb.
May arabica coffee rose by 0.05 cent, or 0.04%, to $1.2935 per lb.
May London cocoa fell by 1 pound, or 0.06%, to 1,632 pounds a tonne after dipping to 1,630 pounds, its weakest in more than one month.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:16pm

Commodities

Gold slides to more than 7-month low as strong yields sap appeal

Gold set to post largest weekly fall since end-November.
Precious metal to struggle as long as yields rise – analyst.
Silver on course for biggest weekly dip since mid-Jan, down 1.5%.
Platinum looks set to post third weekly gain.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:13pm

Money & Banking

UK might need negative rates if recovery disappoints: BoE's Vlieghe

Vlieghe said in a speech published by the BoE that there was a risk of lasting job market weakness hurting wages and prices.
"In such a scenario, I judge more monetary stimulus would be appropriate, and I would favour a negative Bank Rate as the tool to implement the stimulus," he said.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:10pm

Pakistan

Fazlur Rehman, Asif Zardari discuss Senate election, long march

In a telephonic conversation, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader and Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief exchanged views on the upcoming Senate polls and the anti-government long march.
They also exchanged views over the Senate candidates from KP and other provinces.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 08:12pm

Companies

Israeli studies find Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine reduces transmission

Pfizer vaccine developed with Germany's BioNTech reduces infection, including in asymptomatic cases, by 89.4% and in syptomatic cases by 93.7%.
Findings of the pre-published study, not yet peer-reviewed, but based on a national database that is one of the world's most advanced.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:09pm

Industry

Maroc Telecom reports $674 million profit in 2020

The company said it will pay a dividend of 4.01 dirhams per share, totalling 3.5 billion dirhams, or a yield of 2.8%
Maroc Telecom said its customer base rose 8.1% to 73 million citing a growth of its African subsidiaries.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:07pm

Stocks

Shares grind higher despite rising bond yields, weak data

Pan-European stock index up 0.2%.
Sterling at $1.40 for first time in nearly three years.
German, British 10-yr bond yields up to multi-month highs.
Gold hits a seven-month low, oil prices slip.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:05pm

Pakistan

Pervaiz Rasheed challenges rejection of nomination papers for Senate polls

The senior party leader moved the Lahore High Court (LHC)’s election tribunal against the rejection of his nomination papers.
In his appeal, Rasheed made ECP and Returning Officer (RO) as parties.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 08:07pm

Sports

Benzema adds to Real's growing injury woes

Benzema has netted 17 goals this season in all competitions for Real, who sit second in the table, six points behind leaders Atletico Madrid having played a game more.
Tomorrow he won't play. He's got something, a problem, that flared up yesterday (Thursday) and he won't take part tomorrow.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 08:01pm

Sports

Sheffield United suffer Egan blow as injuries mount

"John Egan is going to be out for eight weeks. He needs an operation on a dislocated toe," Wilder told reporters ahead of Saturday's league match at Fulham.
"It's a situation where John has gone to block a shot and when we saw the reaction of a committed, brave player, straightaway we all knew he was in trouble.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:57pm

Money & Banking

ECB plans closer scrutiny of bank boards

The ECB already examines the suitability of board candidates in a so-called fit and proper assessment, but rules across the 19 euro zone members vary, so the quality of these checks can be inconsistent.
Supervisors will consider furthermore all of the diversity-related aspects that are most relevant to enhancing the individual and collective leadership of boards.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:55pm

Stocks

Huuuge makes muted debut in Poland's biggest gaming firm float

Poland's most recent initial public offerings include e-commerce platform Allegro, online fashion retailer Answear.com, and gaming company PCF Group (People Can Fly).
This is a monumental day for us. Today is one big 'hello world' moment for team Huuuge.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:53pm

Companies

Nigerian court freezes Shell accounts ahead of Aiteo lawsuit

Court documents seen by Reuters show that Aiteo is seeking compensation over what it says was the poor condition of the pipeline and associated lost oil sales.
SPDC is working to secure an expeditious discharge of the freezing injunction, which we believe was obtained by Aiteo without any valid basis.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:51pm

Energy

Russia's FinMin proposes tax breaks for hard-to-recover gas output

The RBC daily reported last year that Rosneft had asked the government to ease taxes for the formation where it plans to develop the giant Kharampur project with its shareholder, BP .
The ministry said it has proposed to cut the mineral extraction tax for Berezovskaya. The proposal is subject to further discussion.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:49pm

Pakistan

Two dead, eight injured as PTI, PMLN workers clash as Daska

The firing incident occurred at the Gondka polling station, which left three people injured with two succumbing to their injuries while being transported to hospital.
A heavy contingent of police officials and Rangers personnel reached at the site to restore order.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 07:51pm

Europe

EU moves to allow continued data flows to Britain after Brexit

Ensuring free and safe flow of personal data is crucial for businesses and citizens on both sides of the Channel. The UK has left the EU, but not the European privacy family.
This should be completed before the end of June, when an interim arrangement for data flows after Brexit ends.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:48pm

Commodities

Ukraine grain exports down 20.8pc so far this season

Traders sold 13.31 million tonnes of wheat, 13.08 million tonnes of corn and 3.96 million tonnes of barley, the data showed.
Ukraine is among global major grain exporters and sold about 57 million tonnes of grain to foreign buyers in the 2019/20 season.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:46pm

South Asia

France's Total says it is concerned about Myanmar situation

The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre, a group that promotes human rights in business and tracks human rights policy of thousands of companies.
At this time, we are closely following the current situation in the country and working to ensure the health, safety and security of our employees and our contractors.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:44pm

Companies

Belarus switches oil products to Russian from EU ports

The three Baltic nations imposed sanctions on Lukashenko and his allies following the elections and he promised to re-route oil products shipments to Russian ports in retaliation.
Shipments, set to start from March, would rise to 3.2 million tonnes next year and stay at 3.1 million tonnes in 2023.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:37pm

Sports

Bayern's Tolisso out for months with 'serious' muscle injury

The injury could also cast a shadow over his participation at this year's European Championship starting in June.
He has already been operated (on). It is a serious muscle injury in his left thigh, a muscle tear. We were all shocked in training.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:41pm

Sports

Medvedev win over Djokovic would be good for game, says Tsitsipas

World number four Medvedev had a shot at breaking that stranglehold in the US Open final in 2019 against Nadal but went down in five sets.
"I wouldn't be surprised to see Daniil win the tournament," Tsitsipas, ranked sixth in the world, told reporters after his 6-4 6-2 7-5 defeat to Medvedev in the semi-finals.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:35pm

Companies

Rosneft and Shell have not agreed on 2021 oil supplies to PCK Schwedt refinery

Under the previous contract, which expired on Dec. 31, Rosneft supplied about 100,000 tonnes a month to Shell, the offtaker for the refinery, via the Druzhba pipeline.
Rosneft holds a 54.17% stake in the 220,000-barrels-per-day PCK Schwedt refinery, while British-Dutch major Shell has 37.5% and Italy's Eni has a stake of 8.33%.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:36pm

Companies

J&J applies to WHO for emergency use listing of COVID-19 vaccine

J&J said an emergency use listing is a prerequisite for supplying vaccines to the COVAX vaccine program, co-led by WHO, which aims to deliver doses to poor and middle-income countries.
The J&J vaccine is administered in a single dose and can be stored at normal fridge temperatures, a big selling point in countries with relatively weaker healthcare infrastructure.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:31pm

Business & Finance

Greece to auction 625mn euros of 6-month T-bills on Feb 24

The agency last sold six-month T-bills in late January, when the paper was priced to yield -0.28%.
The settlement date of the new T-bills will be Feb. 26. Only primary dealers will be allowed to participate and no commission will be paid.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:29pm

Europe

UK economy shows signs of stabilisation after new lockdown hit

Surveys suggest UK businesses stabilised in February.
Retail sales slump 8.2% m/m in January.
Borrowing much lower than expected at 8.8 billion pounds.
Sunak says he will be honest about fixing budget hole.
Economist sees big tax rises in 2022.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:27pm

Companies

Pfizer seeks US approval to ease handling of COVID-19 vaccine

Pfizer/BioNTech's vaccine, along with Moderna Inc's two-dose shot, won the US emergency use authorization (EUA) and is being widely distributed as part of the country's mass vaccination efforts.
The data submitted may facilitate the handling of our vaccine in pharmacies and provide vaccination centers an even greater flexibility.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:23pm

Sports

Pressure is all on Djokovic in the final, says Medvedev

The relentless Russian will contest his first final at Melbourne Park on Sunday and look to claim his maiden Grand Slam title after beating Tsitsipas 6-4 6-2 7-5 at a floodlit Rod Laver Arena.
Yet Medvedev has now won 20 successive matches and 12 against top-10 opponents, including beating Djokovic on the way to winning the ATP Finals.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:21pm

Europe

UK government broke the law by failing to disclose PPE contracts, court rules

As COVID-19 swept across the world last year, Britain scrambled to secure protective gear for medics and nurses on the front line.
The Secretary of State spent vast quantities of public money on pandemic-related procurements during 2020.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:19pm

Africa

Ghana expects first delivery of AstraZeneca vaccine shots

The country will spend around $3 for every two shots of vaccine and inoculate around 20 million people against the virus, according to the plan.
On the estimated cost, we are looking at...for every person getting two shots, that would cost nearly $3 per person fully vaccinated for the two doses.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:17pm

Sports

Mendy deserves to be Chelsea's first-choice keeper, says Tuchel

Edouard is the number one and deserves to be the number one. You cannot hide your opinion, things have to be clear and you cannot be afraid of it.
Things have not changed, we need three strong goalkeepers and everybody ready.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:14pm

Europe

Moscow goes green: Russian capital eyes fully electric bus fleet by 2030

"Every year the plan will be to replace all wheeled public transport vehicles with electric buses," said Artyom Burlakov, deputy head of the innovative projects department at Mosgortrans.
They are also buying new, more power-efficient trams, which is a good thing.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:13pm

Commodities

Tunisia buys soft wheat, durum wheat and feed barley in tender

Tonnage bought was initially unclear but thought to be close to the tender volume of around 100,000 tonnes of soft wheat, 92,000 tonnes of durum wheat and 100,000 tonnes of barley.
Shipment of all grains was sought between March 15 and April 25, depending on the supplying origin.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:11pm

Energy

Ecopetrol proven reserves finished 2020 down 6.5pc

The decline in 1P reserves was mainly caused by the 32% price drop in hydrocarbon prices, Ecopetrol said.
The Brent price used for valuation in 2020 was $43 per barrel, compared with $63 per barrel in 2019, implying a decrease of 215 million boe, the company said.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:09pm

Sports

Everton's Calvert-Lewin, Allan in line for return at Liverpool

"Dominic is back and also Allan is back. We have many games in this period so it is important to have the squad available," Ancelotti told reporters.
"To have Allan back is really important for us. He can add more intensity, more concentration defensively."

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:03pm

South Asia

India court extends activist Ravi's detention over farm protest

"This court remands the accused, Disha Ravi, to judicial custody for three days," judge Akash Jain said.
Senior lawyers and lawmakers have criticised the sedition case, disputing the allegation by police that the document in question incited violence.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:01pm

Stocks

Wall St set for higher open as tech finds respite at end of torrid week

Tech-related stocks edge higher.
Uber falls after losing UK case on worker rights.
Futures up: Dow 0.26%, S&P 0.41%, Nasdaq 0.59%.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:59pm

South Asia

Iran will reverse nuclear actions when US lifts sanctions: Zarif

Iran considering US offer to talk about deal's revival.
Washington must return to the deal, senior official says.
Then a way to 'synchronise steps' can be agreed, he says.
'Give diplomacy a chance', says Iranian official.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:57pm

Africa

South Africa adviser says Pfizer 'still very good vaccine' despite study

The advisory committee held its regular weekly meeting on Thursday and discussed the laboratory study, which was published in the New England Journal of Medicine this week.
South Africa is counting on the Pfizer shot, developed with German partner BioNTech, to step up its vaccination programme after administering its first Johnson & Johnson doses on Wednesday.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:55pm

Europe

Spain close to vaccinating all nursing-home residents, on track for summer goals

Pedro Sanchez said, which has administered 2.8 million doses and fully inoculated 1.14 million people, was on track to vaccinate 20 million people in the first half of 2021 out of a population of 47 million.
They are very positive data that allow us to be optimistic about the future.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 06:56pm

Commodities

Gold-Price drop boosts India buying, lifts premiums to 8-mth high

India premiums jump to $7 an ounce versus $5 last week.
Activity resuming slowly in China after holiday.
Premiums on silver products rising exponentially- dealer.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:52pm

Forex

Aussie and sterling hit multi-year highs on recovery bets

Dollar weakens further after weaker jobs data.
Aussie hits nearly 3-yr high, sterling reaches $1.40.
Euro rebounds, aided by strong factory survey data.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:25pm

South Asia

Japan will need nuclear power in 2050-utilities group head

Scientifically, we may have a breakthrough in storage battery technology that may enable renewable power to meet the entire electricity demand by 2050.
In terms of public opinion, we are not yet at the stage to talk about building new power plants or replacing existing plants.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:23pm

Energy

Italy's Eni beats expectations in last quarter after 'year like no other'

The unprecedented fall in demand triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic led bigger European rivals Shell and BP and US majors Exxon Mobil and Chevron to report heavy losses for the year.
Eni shares fell sharply last year, hitting their lowest in a quarter of a century as the health pandemic shook oil markets.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:20pm

Companies

Dr.Reddy's seeks Indian emergency use authorization for Russia's Sputnik V vaccine

The approval of the Sputnik V vaccine would bolster India's immunisation campaign, which on Friday crossed the 10 million mark. The country aims to inoculate 300 million people by August.
Shares of the company, which had fallen as much as 1.9%, reversed course to trade 1.4% higher following the news.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:16pm

Companies

Northvolt to invest $200mn in new Polish battery plant

Securing battery cell manufacturing capacity in Europe is key for its industrial future, but what is equally critical is the industrial capacity for integrating cells into real-world solutions.
It is this that the new factory will deliver - sophisticated, sustainable energy storage systems to support the transformation of Europe's electricity grid and its industry.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:13pm

Money & Banking

Ireland's banking sector down to two big players as NatWest exits

Third largest lender exits already concentrated market.
AIB, PTSB in talks over corporate, SME, retail loans.
Government says talks "potentially important development".

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:08pm

Companies

Battling Covid collateral damage, Renault says 2021 will be volatile

We are in the midst of a battle to try to manage a difficult year in terms of supply chains, of components.
This is all the collateral damage of the Covid pandemic... we will have a fairly volatile year.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:09pm

Stocks

Sri Lankan shares end higher as financial, consumer stocks gain

Browns Investments added 9.1%, the biggest boost on the index, while shares of Lanka Orix Leasing company closed 2.6% higher.
Shares of Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka added 3.4%, also among the top boosts.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:04pm

Industry

China hikes half-year rare earth output quotas to record level

H1 mining quota at 84,000 T; smelting/separation quota 81,000 T.
Quotas follow report China considering rare earth export curbs.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 06:01pm

Energy

Traders rush to supply fuel to the US as Texas freeze bites

The cold snap has halted about one-fifth of the United States' refining capacity and nearly all oil and natural gas production in west Texas.
Traders were looking to fill the gap in refinery supplies with bookings from elsewhere.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:59pm

Companies

Auto parts supplier Magna rides demand rebound to forecast upbeat 2021

Pent-up demand and customers preferring to buy vehicles seeking more safety during the health crisis have lifted auto sales and boosted demand for auto suppliers.
The Ontario-based company expects 2021 revenue of $40 billion to $41.6 billion, above analysts' average estimate of $38.41 billion, according to Refinitiv I/B/E/S data.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:54pm

Europe

Ukraine's death rate jumps 42.9pc in December

Overall in 2020, Ukraine, a country of 41 million, reported 6.1% more fatalities - or 616,835 people - than in the previous year.
The figure marks a lower per capita death rate than seen in many European countries, a fact the government attributes to its tough lockdown measures.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:49pm

Europe

Dutch government fighting in court and Senate to keep coronavirus curfew

Meanwhile, an appeals court was hearing more arguments about whether it had ever been legal to introduce the curfew, which triggered street protests when it was brought in last month.
Protesters and political opponents say the curfew, the first seen in the Netherlands since World War Two, is a unnecessary restriction on freedoms.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:48pm

Commodities

Wheat steady after rally; corn, soy brace for USDA supply outlook

CBOT wheat up 4.8% this week, first weekly gain in three.
US freeze, importer demand, Euronext rally support.
Corn flat, soy firm ahead of USDA supply-demand outlook.
USDA record acreage figure curbed soy, corn on Thursday.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:46pm

Forex

Bitcoin steams to new record and nears $1 trillion market cap

Hits record $52,932, up 60% this month.
JP Morgan calls bitcoin "economic side show".
No.2 coin ethereum hits record.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:42pm

Energy

Japan's Fuji Oil to shut Sodegaura refinery for maintenance in May-July

Fuji Oil's only refinery is located east of Tokyo in Chiba and was restarted this week after no damage was found following a forced shut down due to a nearby earthquake on the weekend.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:37pm

Companies

Deere upgrades 2021 earnings outlook on improved equipment demand

The Moline, Illinois-based company now expects annual net income in the range of $4.6 billion to $5.0 billion, higher than $3.6 billion-$4.0 billion forecast earlier.
Earnings for the first quarter came in at $3.87 per share compared with $1.63 per share last year. Analysts surveyed by Refinitiv, on average, expected quarterly earnings of $2.14 per share.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:35pm

Pakistan

Russian Presidential Envoy calls on COAS Bajwa: ISPR

The two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and the regional security situation, with a particular focus on the developments in the Afghan Peace Process.
The COAS said that peace in both countries is in the greater interest of the region.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 05:40pm

South Asia

Chinese fighters buzz Taiwan's air zone as it appoints new defence minister

Taiwan reports eight Chinese fighters in defence zone.
Taiwan announces new defence, intelligence chiefs.
Tensions have risen as China asserts sovereignty claims.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:33pm

Europe

Bulgaria to give COVID-19 shots to all who want them amid high public mistrust

Over 70% of teachers and workers in sensitive infrastructure that had priority for inoculations after frontline medics did not show up for their appointments, health officials said.
Bulgaria has a population of 7 million people but has administered only 90,500 shots against COVID-19 so far. About 25,400 people have had two shots.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:31pm

Sports

Medvedev sees off Tsitsipas to march into Australian Open final

Fourth seed Medvedev served like a machine until broken in the third set, which revived the Greek fans in the terraces as Tsitsipas roared to a 5-4 lead.
"I'm happy to manage to keep my nerves because still I didn't make so many bad shots," Medvedev said on court of his anxious third set.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:29pm

Europe

Moody's says Hungary's economy could grow by 3pc in 2021

Hungary's central bank had projected GDP growth of 3.5%-6.0% for this year in its last inflation report in December.
The outlook would return to stable, or downward rating pressure could arise if there were signs of a (post-pandemic) weakened commitment by policymakers to contain the budget deficit.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:28pm

Africa

African Union says Russia offers 300mn doses of Sputnik V vaccine

Africa scrambling to secure vaccine supplies.
Lags wealthier parts of world in immunisations.
Deal could be among biggest by Russia to date.
Russia says most deliveries to start from June.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:26pm

Companies

Colonial allocates Cycle 14 shipments on distillate Line 20

The company generally announces allocations when nominations, or requests, for space to ship petroleum products on its lines exceed its ability to meet the five-day lifting cycle.
The cycles are five-day periods when a sequence of all in-season products is pumped.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:24pm

South Asia

Facebook's Australia news blackout: a shock four years in the making

Yet this was a shock four years in the making - a potential global turning point for regulation of big social media companies that began with Australia's complex, provincial politics in 2017.
If there is a viable rival to Facebook in years to come, its genesis will be the event that occurred in Australia on the 18th of February.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:22pm

Commodities

Copper soars to 9-year high on tight supply, weak dollar

Benchmark copper on the London Metal Exchange (LME) added 2.3% to $8,746 per tonne.
The return of the Chinese market post the Lunar New Year has seen some renewed interest in base metals.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:20pm

Europe

UK court blocks release of HSBC papers in Huawei CFO fraud case

Meng is facing charges of bank fraud in the United States for allegedly misleading HSBC about Huawei's business dealings in Iran, causing the bank to violate US sanctions.
The judge's written judgment on Friday declined Meng's application and ordered her team to pay legal costs of 80,000 pounds ($111,936).

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:19pm

Financial

Reflation trades set euro zone bonds for worst week in months

German 10-year yield set for biggest weekly jump since August.
Italian 10-year yield set for biggest weekly jump since April.
PMIs largely in line with expectations.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:17pm

Stocks

AmTrust CEO-backed SPAC files for $300mn IPO

Pine Technology Acquisition Corp said it plans to sell 30 million units, made up of shares and warrants, priced at $10 per share on the Nasdaq Capital Market.
SPACs are shell companies that raise funds through an IPO to acquire a private company, which becomes public as a result of the merger.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:15pm

Stocks

Futures edge higher ahead of business activity data

Futures up: Dow 0.12%, S&P 0.21%, Nasdaq 0.34%
Strong earnings, progress in vaccination roll-outs and hopes of a $1.9 trillion federal stimulus package helped US stock indexes hit record highs at the start of the week.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:13pm

Industry

Uber drivers entitled to worker rights, top UK court rules in blow to business model

In a case led by two former Uber drivers, a London employment tribunal ruled in 2016 that they were due entitlements that also included paid holidays and rest breaks.
"The legislation is intended to give certain protections to vulnerable individuals who have little or no say over their pay and working conditions."

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:11pm

Europe

COVID-19 prevalence in England falls again, 1 in 115 people infected

In the previous week, the ONS estimated the prevalence to be one in 80 people. Johnson is set to set out his roadmap out of England's third national lockdown on Monday.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:09pm

Companies

Swiss Re eyes 2021 recovery from pandemic fallout, declares dividend

First loss since financial crisis in 2008.
Proposes stable dividend.
CEO confident about 2021 recovery.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:03pm

Sports

Opportunity for future stars to announce their arrivals

That same stage propelled Shadab Khan, Haider Ali, Umar Khan, Arshad Iqbal and Rohail Nazir to name a few.
The HBL Pakistan Super League 6 will also see all six teams giving two emerging players each the launch pad to fire on. Here is a brief introduction of all the emerging players.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 05:06pm

USA

Iran will reverse nuclear actions when U.S. lifts sanctions: Zarif

Iran will “immediately reverse” actions in its nuclear programme when U.S. sanctions are lifted, its foreign minister said on Friday, reiterating Tehran’s position on Washington’s offer to revive talks.
The Biden Administration said on Thursday it was ready to revive a 2015 agreement between Iran and world powers that former president Donald Trump abandoned in 2018 before reimposing sanctions on Iran.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 05:06pm

Pakistan

Opposition plans to buy PTI lawmakers to get its Senators elected by opposing open ballot: PM

Imran says a market has been set up to buy politicians and rates have been set
During the past years, the opposition parties favoured use of open ballot in the Senate elections but now they are forcing the government on use of secret ballot: Premiere

Published 19 Feb, 2021 05:04pm

Pakistan

Senate polls hearing reference: SC adjourns hearing till February 22

Justice Ahsan says the alliance of political parties does not make any difference on proportional representation, if a party wants to unite, it should do so openly
Raza Rabbani told the court that there is a difference between horse trading and political alliance as political alliance is usually secret

Published 19 Feb, 2021 04:25pm

Pakistan

Passion, perseverance and determination of Sadpara, Snorri and Mohr will always be remembered: FO

The three climbers who went missing on February 5 were officially declared dead on Thursday.
It is believed the group reached the summit but encountered a problem on the way down.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 04:25pm

Business & Finance

FCCL announces to setup Greenfield Cement Manufacturing Plant in Punjab

The construction work on the project is expected to commence within current financial year and is expected to have a construction period of about 2.5 years.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 04:13pm

Business & Finance

Electricity price likely to jack up by Rs 0.92 per unit

According to the CPPA, the increase in electricity prices is being done in terms of monthly fuel adjustment.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 03:34pm

Pakistan

ATC blocks CNICs of PTM leaders

Both Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Dawar were declared fugitives in the case, after their continued non-appearance before the court
PTM chief Manzoor Pashteen and Mohsin Dawar are named in treason case and provoking the masses against the state through their hate speeches

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 03:30pm

Business & Finance

SECP incorporates Fauji Fertilizer’s technical services provider

“After completing the legal formalities a wholly owned subsidiary with the name of OLIVE Technical Services (Private) Limited has been incorporated and registered with Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP),” informed FFC on Friday.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 03:21pm

Pakistan

PEC announces school exam schedule

The exams will be held from May 18 to 31 for students of grades I-VIII, read the notification by PEC.
According to the PEC, 50% weightage in the exams will be for homework and 50% weightage will be for MCQ-based papers.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 02:57pm

World

Rich nations stockpiling a billion more COVID-19 vaccine shots than needed: Report

In an analysis of current supply deals for COVID-19 vaccines, the ONE Campaign said wealthy countries, such as the United States and Britain, should share the excess doses to “supercharge” a fully global response to the pandemic.
On Thursday, the World Health Organization urged nations with vaccines not to share them unilaterally, but to donate them to the global COVAX scheme to ensure fairness.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 02:55pm

Pakistan

Veteran MQM leader Mohammad Anwar passes away in London

Anwar's family said he was diagnosed with cancer four months ago and was being treated at London's Royal Free Hospital
Anwar leaves behind a wife and three daughters

Published 19 Feb, 2021 02:46pm

World

UN experts raise concern over India's move to enact laws in IIOJK that could discriminate Muslims, other minorities

“The number of successful applicants for domicile certificates that appear to be from outside Jammu and Kashmir raises concerns that demographic change on a linguistic, religious and ethnic basis is already underway,” the UN experts said.
The experts are in contact with the Indian government on this matter.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 02:42pm

Business & Finance

Lahore based drug maker eyes to launch country’s biggest pharma IPO

As per Citi Pharma Chief Executive Officer Rizwan Ahmed, the pharma is expected to go public in a matter of six weeks.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 02:26pm

China

President Biden to focus on COVID-19, China, at his first G7 summit

In his upcoming meeting with world leaders from the G-7, President Joe Biden plans to focus on the global response to the pandemic, according to the White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Thursday.
The Trump Administration held a volatile relationship with China, placing tariffs on Chinese goods and blocking supplies to Chinese telecommunications companies; while Biden as repeatedly taken aim at China for its treatment of the minority Uyghur community.

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 01:26pm

Pakistan

PTI leader Haleem Sheikh sent to jail on judicial remand

Sheikh told the court that the snake was deliberately left in his room and it was a conspiracy to murder him
On February 16, Opposition Leader in Sindh Assembly Haleem Adil Sheikh was taken into custody by police for violating the orders of Election Commission of Pakistan

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:45pm

Energy

Asian prices slip; traders eye potential US supply disruptions

India's Petronet and Indian Oil Corp are seeking cargoes for late February to March delivery, they added.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:21pm

World

Afghanistan peace talks under threat as major Taliban spring offensive takes shape

“Taliban violence is much higher than historical norms,” Miller told Reuters. “It just doesn’t create the conditions to move forward in what is hopefully a historic turning point for Afghanistan.”

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:14pm

World

Biden to visit Pfizer factory as Americans clamor for more COVID-19 vaccine supply

Globally, Pfizer and BioNTech aim to make 2 billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine this year. Pfizer's chief financial officer told Reuters earlier this month that it had recently doubled the size of the batches of its vaccine and increased the number of batches it was producing.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:15pm

Forex

Yuan bounces from 3-week low, market eyes Sino-US relations

Joe Biden will attend his first meeting as US president with Group of Seven leaders on Friday to discuss plans to defeat the novel coronavirus, reopen the battered world economy and counter the challenge posed by China.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:13pm

World

Iran is playing with fire, Germany warns

“The more pressure is applied, the more difficult it gets to find a political solution,” German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:12pm

Technology

TikTok strikes deal with UFC to live-stream content

The agreement includes weekly UFC livestreams that will feature behind-the-scenes footage and interactions with athletes, TikTok said in a blog post here.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:08pm

Forex

Rupiah hurt by rate cut, bond outflows on dour economic outlook

South Korea equities continued their descent for third day on recent jump in coronavirus cases, giving up most of their vaccine-fuelled rally gains earlier this week.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:08pm

Technology

PTA makes alternate arrangements, after cable fault disrupts internet

“Work is underway to rectify the fault however it may take some time until the fault is removed completely,” informed PTA.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 12:06pm

World

Israeli study finds Pfizer vaccine 85% effective after first shot

The Sheba Medical Center’s findings compare with overall efficacy of around 95% in a two dose regimen 21 days apart for the shot developed with Germany’s BioNTech.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:57am

Stocks

Indian shares flat, private sector lenders drag By Chandini Monnappa

Earlier this week, Reuters reported that India had shortlisted four state-run lenders for possible privatisation.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:56am

Pakistan

CJP orders to verify degrees of police officials across country

Justice Gulzar directed the IGs to end unnecessary use of government vehicles
The image of police can only be improved with responsible behaviour and performance of police officers: Gulzar

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:50am

Financial

Goldman Sachs sees minimal oil price impact from Texas freeze

Low temperatures and power outages should fuel heating demand for LPG by 80,000 bpd and for diesel powered generators by 200,000 bpd, however, it said.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:54am

Business & Finance

SBP develops reporting mechanism to curb Digital Banking Frauds

The central bank in order to have sufficient information about these frauds has developed two standardized formats to record information relating to attempted and committed fake call frauds.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:45am

Companies

Petronas to offer 13 offshore exploration blocks at upcoming bid exercise

Petronas will also be offering relatively new fiscal terms to be applied in the Production Sharing Contracts (PSC) such as Enhanced Profitability (EPT) for the shallow water blocks, the Late Life Assets (LLA) and Small Field Assets (SFA), he added.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:39am

World

Canada vows to be next country to go after Facebook to pay for news

Facebook blocked all Australian news content on its service over proposed legislation requiring it and Alphabet Inc’s Google to pay fees to Australian publishers for news links.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:35am

Forex

Dollar nurses losses after jobs data mars recovery narrative; sterling buoyant

Smaller rival ethereum rose to a record $1,951.89 on Friday, just pipping the previous day's high, before trading at $1,909.41. It has surged some 162% this year.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:36am

World

Japan to receive second vaccine shipment on Sunday, Jiji says

Japan launched its inoculation drive on Wednesday, giving medical personnel the Pfizer-BionTech vaccine.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:34am

World

New look at first black hole detected shows it is bigger than expected

While it is still one of the closest-known black holes, they found it is somewhat farther away than previously calculated, at 7,200 light years - the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles (9.5 trillion km) - from Earth.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:31am

Energy

US oil may test support at $58.13

A retracement analysis reveals an immediate support at $58.13, the 38.2% level, a break below which could open the way towards $56.85. A bounce from the current level may be limited to $59.33.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:33am

Commodities

Palm oil may retest support at 3,465 ringgit after weak bounce

A bounce is highly likely to occur around this support.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:31am

Energy

Brent oil may fall into $61.74-$62.23 range

Oil may hover below this trendline for a few days or weeks. A retracement analysis marks a support at $63.44, the 7% level, which has been broken.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:30am

Commodities

CBOT soybeans may fall to $13.56-3/4

The consolidation within a wedge may develop more.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:28am

Bullion Rate

Spot gold may fall to $1,726

A sudden surge above $1,783 could signal a reversal of the downtrend.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:26am

Business & Finance

Notification issued, Masroor Khan appointed Chairman Ogra

Days ago, the federal government gave approval to the appointment of Masroor Khan as chairman Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra).

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:23am

Stocks

Australia shares track Asian peers lower, commodity stocks weigh

Bucking the trend, technology stocks inched higher after Morgan Stanley bumped up sector heavyweight Afterpay's price target by 25%.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:24am

Pakistan

By-elections in four NA, PA constituencies begins

Strict security arrangements have been taken to avert any untoward incident, while Rangers and FC officers have been deployed outside polling stations
The ECP states the number of registered voters in the constituency is 4,94300 while 360 polling stations have been set up

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:26am

Stocks

Australia shares track Wall Street lower, miners and banks weigh

Financials slipped 0.9% but were set to add about 1% for the week. QBE Insurance gave up 3.3% after it posted a bigger annual loss than it had forecast and skipped a final dividend as COVID-19-related provisions and catastrophe claims surged.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:21am

Companies

Honda says CEO Hachigo to step down, replaced by R&D chief Mibe

Mibe's appointment, first reported by Reuters this week , comes as Honda races to catch up in the field of all-electric cars and faces competition from new entrants and tech giants such as Tesla, Apple and Amazon.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:17am

Financial

Romania pushes euro adoption goal to 2027-2028: PM

Romania, a country of 20 million which joined the European Union in 2007 has postponed its euro adoption plans several times as it struggles to meet EU targets.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:15am

Financial

Allianz Q4 net profit drops 2.2%, but better than expected

Net profit attributable to shareholders of 1.817 billion euros ($2.20 billion) in the three months through December compares with 1.858 billion euros a year earlier.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:10am

World

Kamala Harris's stepdaughter makes catwalk debut in New York

The final-year student at the Parsons School of Design in New York is also a knitwear designer.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:08am

World

US offers to meet Iran, reverses Trump steps in push to save nuclear deal

"This gets us back into a position where we can work within that framework and work with our closest allies, in particular on addressing our concerns with Iran."

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:05am

World

Taliban 'clearly' behind violence in Afghanistan: US

A study mandated by the US Congress has called for a delay in the pullout, warning it would effectively hand the Taliban a victory.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 11:00am

World

Senator's Mexico trip draws ire as Texas hit by winter storm

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki offered a dry assessment of the incident when questioned by journalists.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:58am

Stocks

Tokyo stocks open lower extending US falls

The dollar fetched 105.69 yen in early Asian trade, against 105.66 yen in New York late Thursday.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:57am

Stocks

Hong Kong shares open lower

The Hang Seng Index fell 0.37 percent, or 111.81 points, to 30,483.46.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:53am

World

US seeks fallback Saudi bases in case of Iran tensions

The show of force was intended to deter Tehran from carrying out any attack on US forces on the first anniversary of the assassination by the United States of top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:49am

Technology

Touchdown: NASA's Perseverance rover ready to search for life on Mars

Dubbed Ingenuity, it will have to achieve lift in an atmosphere that's one percent the density of Earth's, a demonstration of concept that could revolutionize the way humans explore other planets.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:44am

Sports

Burns grabs PGA lead at Riviera with closing birdie binge

"Really pleased," Fitzpatrick said. "To get off to a start like that in the first round, I'm delighted."

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:42am

Business & Finance

Prices of edible items to be jacked up at Utility Stores

The final decision will be taken after the approval of the National Economic Co-ordination Committee.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:39am

Technology

UK top court to rule on Uber drivers' status

He said the aim was to offer a transparent and fair pay structure, and more benefits to drivers.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:34am

Sports

Ibrahimovic, Lukaku rematch as Milan rivals clash for Serie A top spot

Champions League rivals Atalanta and Napoli go head-to-head on Sunday before the Bergamo side host Real Madrid in this year's elite European tournament.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:31am

World

Facebook, Google, Twitter CEOs will testify about misinformation before U.S. Congress

This will be the seventh time Zuckerberg has testified before Congress since 2018.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:30am

Business & Finance

Bitcoin goldrush sparks fears of speculative bubble

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde declared this month that bitcoin was "not a currency" and was a "highly speculative" asset requiring global regulation.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:28am

Technology

NASA's astrobiology rover Perseverance makes historic Mars landing

“Touchdown confirmed,” Swati Mohan, the lead guidance and operations specialist announced from the control room. “Perseverance safely on the surface of Mars.”

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:23am

World

US consults Japan, South Korea on North Korea review

The Trump administration argued that it ended a diplomatic logjam and effectively stopped North Korea's nuclear and missile tests, although critics say that Pyongyang nonetheless advanced on the programs.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:23am

Sports

Berchelt defends boxing crown against unbeaten Valdez

Since then, he has knocked out American Adam Lopez in seven rounds and Puerto Rico's Jayson Velez in 10 rounds last July.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:20am

Pakistan

Pakistan reports 1,245 new coronavirus cases, 40 deaths in 24 hours

Currently, there are 24,139 COVID-19 cases.
1,243 people also recovered from the novel virus in 24 hours.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:09am

Stocks

Asian markets fall further as recovery pace fuels rate-hike fear

Profit-takers were also taking an opportunity to cash in after both contracts rallied to 13-month highs, they added.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:18am

Business & Finance

Wealth tax: inequality solution for Latin America?

In Europe, wealth taxes have generated barely 0.2 percent of GDP -- a "very small" amount, according to Rasteletti.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:07am

Business & Finance

How the GameStop hearing unfolded?

GameStop rose more than 1,000% during two weeks as retail traders using the Reddit platform encouraged each other to pile in, socking it to hedge fund managers who were short the stock - a bet GameStop would fall.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:09am

Technology

Pakistani fintech grabs USAID Innovation Grant to digitize MSMEs

Launched in September 2019, PayPro has processed approximately 70,000 transactions valued at more than Rs1 billion in throughput to date.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:02am

World

Malaysian news site hit with massive fine amid press freedom fears

It was a split decision, with one of the seven judges dissenting.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:05am

Pakistan

Pakistan calls upon India to bring perpetrators of Samjhauta Express blast to justice 'without further delay'

The FO said that despite the availability of clear evidence, India’s continuing failure to provide justice to the victims of the horrible incident is a 'reconfirmation of the culture of impunity that the perpetrators of terrorist attacks enjoy in India'.
In 2007, the Delhi-Lahore Samjhauta Express train blasts resulted in the death of 68 passengers, including more than 40 Pakistani nationals.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:05am

World

China confirms four died in June clash on India border

Beijing and New Delhi later sent tens of thousands of extra troops to the border.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:02am

Technology

Facebook inflated its advertising audiences: lawsuit

Facebook modified the Potential Reach tool in 2019.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 10:01am

Technology

Australia and Facebook in talks over sweeping news ban

The data also suggested users were not yet leaving Facebook in response to the ban, however, with no apparent rise in Google search traffic recorded.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:58am

Stocks

Hong Kong stocks extend losses in morning

The Hang Seng Index shed 0.85 percent, or 259.76 points, to 30,335.51.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:56am

World

Myanmar generals under sanctions pressure

"We will be waiting for the EU sanctions announcement" on Monday, said Thinzar Shunlei Yi, one of the main activists who kicked off an online "Civil Disobedience Movement" campaign which has spilled onto the streets.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:46am

Sports

Is long reign over for Williams, queen of Melbourne Park?

For her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, there's no comparison between Williams's achievements and those of Court, who won 13 of her titles when tennis was still an amateur sport.

Published 19 Feb, 2021 09:43am

Pakistan

Senate chief urges lawmakers to rely on authentic research, data

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, Thursday, stressed upon the lawmakers of Pakistan to rely on...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

CSR summit, awards on 25th

ISLAMABAD: Punjab Governor Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar will be the chief guest at the 13th Annual Corporate Social...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

COAS thanks Chinese envoy for vaccine assistance

Islamabad: Chief of Army staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Covid-19 claims 4 more lives, infects 361 others in Sindh

KARACHI: As many as 4 more patients of Coronavirus died overnight lifting the death toll to 4,267 and 361 new cases...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

SHC upholds order of Customs Appellate Tribunal

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has upheld the order of the Customs Appellate Tribunal that the Federal Board of...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Storming of judicial compound: IHC starts disciplinary proceedings against 21 lawyers

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC), on Thursday, initiated disciplinary proceedings against 21 lawyers for...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Senator Mushahidullah laid to rest

ISLAMABAD: The veteran senator of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Mushahidullah Khan, was laid to rest,...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Cyber security: Ministries, depts asked to host websites on NTC

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications, fearing cyber security threats, wrote a...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Senate elections: Mandviwalla optimistic about Gillani’s win

ISLAMABAD: Senate Deputy Chairman Saleem Mandviwalla on Thursday expressed his optimism about victory of joint...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

North Waziristan: NA panel for arrangements to bring IDPs back

ISLAMABAD: A National Assembly panel, on Thursday, asked the federal government to make all arrangements with the...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

‘Islamabad enjoys friendly, cooperative ties with comity of nations’

ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office, Thursday, said that the participation of 42 nations in the Multinational Maritime...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

PIA to start releasing VSS payments next week

KARACHI: Pakistan International Airline (PIA) is going to start releasing the Voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS)...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

KCR-2 Down: Railways chairman travels on City-Orangi route

KARACHI: Pakistan Railways chairman Habib-ur-Rehman Gillani travelled from City to Orangi station in KCR-2 Down on...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Minister reviews progress on SOEs privatisation

ISLAMABAD: The Privatisation Commission on Thursday reviewed the progress on privatisation of state-owned entities...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

The Weather

KARACHI: The weather report on Thursday (February 18, 2021) and the forecast for Friday (February 19, 2021)....

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Toshakhana case: AC adjourns hearing till 24th

ISLAMABAD: An accountability court, on Thursday adjourned the hearing of Toshakhana case involving former president...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

NA body takes notice of complaints against PCP manager

ISLAMABAD: The Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat took notice of the allegations against the manager Printing...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

PML-N MPA reposes confidence in Buzdar

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) MPA from Khanewal Faisal Khan Niazi called on Chief Minister Sardar...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:27am

Pakistan

Foreign reserves down by $59m

KARACHI: The liquid foreign reserves held by State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) decreased by $59 million to $12.889 ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Open ballot will help discourage horse-trading: Shibli

PESHAWAR: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shibli Faraz said on Thursday those parties who agreed ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Four coal miners die of suffocation

QUETTA: Four miners died from suffocation and one fell unconscious when poisonous gas accumulated in the Shahrug ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Letter to FATF: Malik urges Marcus to remove Pakistan from Grey List

ISLAMABAD: Former interior minister and Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Interior Senator A Rehman Malik has...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Horse-trading in Senate elections: Opposition contradicting its own stance: SAPM

ISLAMABAD: Senator Shahzad Waseem, the leader of the house in the Senate, said on Thursday the opposition is...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

PSDP: NA panel recommends Rs31.32bn for 166 projects

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior recommended the budgetary proposals relating to the...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Personal appearance: AC allows one-time exemption to Khawaja Asif

LAHORE: An accountability court on Thursday allowed one-time exemption from personal appearance to former defence...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

NAB asks LHC to deny pre-arrest bail to Hamza

LAHORE: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has asked the Lahore High Court to deny post-arrest bail to Leader...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Ziauddin University introduces 3D virtual dissection table

KARACHI: The Department of Anatomy at Ziauddin University has introduced Pakistan’s first-ever 3D Virtual...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

Qureshi says Pakistan enjoys strong ties with AL members

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Thursday said Pakistan enjoyed strong political, trade and...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

KCCI urges govt to focus on providing business friendly environment

KARACHI: President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) M Shariq Vohra has stressed that the government...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

PKI threatens to stage ‘Tractor March’

LAHORE: Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI) presenting a charter of demand here on Thursday warned the government of...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

JUI-F, JI urge govt to ensure release of missing persons at the earliest

ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan have asked the government to ensure release...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

‘9,035 Afghan nationals have accounts in 26 banks’

ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Pakistan

PASSD reveals country’s 23 poorest districts

ISLAMABAD: In an alarming disclosure, a press release from the Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Division ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:26am

Money & Banking

Aussie, kiwi steady

SYDNEY: The Australian and New Zealand dollars held steady on Thursday as solid domestic data helped offset a broad...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Industry

Clearance of import, export consignments: Traders facing unnecessary delays

KARACHI: Traders are reportedly facing unnecessary delays in the clearance of import and export consignments due to...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Business & Finance

July 2020-January 2021: Mobile phones worth $1.135bn imported

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan imported mobile phones worth $1.135 billion during July-January (2020-21) compared to $760.58...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Money & Banking

Soneri Bank earns Rs2,400m profit after tax

KARACHI: The Board of Directors of Soneri Bank Limited, in their 183rd meeting held on 17th February 2021, approved...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Industry

Trade talks to help explore investment chances: Swedish envoy

LAHORE: Appreciating the improved ranking of Pakistan in World Bank index, Ease of Doing Business (EODB), ambassador...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Money & Banking

Sterling moves up against euro, dollar

LONDON: Sterling edged higher against both the euro and the dollar on Thursday, reaching its highest in almost a ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Companies

Engro Corporation announces FY 2020 results

KARACHI: Pakistan’s premier conglomerate, Engro Corporation (PSX: ENGRO) announced its financial results for the...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Business & Finance

EU to push greener trade policy, WTO reform

BRUSSELS: The European Union will make fighting the climate emergency central to its trade policy and push for major...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Money & Banking

Early trade in New York: Dollar snaps winning streak, bitcoin hovers near record highs

NEW YORK: The dollar lost ground on Thursday, ending its first two-day winning streak in two weeks as disappointing...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:24am

Business & Finance

Motorcycle spare parts import overburdened: APMSPIDA

KARACHI: Chairman All Pakistan Motorcycle Spare Parts Importers and Dealers Association (APMSPIDA), Khalid Waheed ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:23am

Taxes

FBR upbeat about surpassing Rs381bn target for Feb

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is confident of surpassing the target of Rs381 billion set for the...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:23am

Govt-IPPs deals get NAB sanction

ISLAMABAD: National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has "cleared" deals between Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:23am

Wapda opposes NJS swapping for DBD development

ISLAMABAD: Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) has opposed swapping of the Neelum Jhelum Surcharge (NJS) ...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:22am

Three candidates from Punjab elected unopposed to Senate

ISLAMABAD: Three senators were elected unopposed on their respective seats from Punjab, according to reports....

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:22am

Heads of organizations: To PM’s great disappointment, ministries fail to fill vacant posts

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed his disappointment at the delay in hiring heads of different...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:22am

Presidential reference on mode of ballot: Sindh, Punjab AGs outline widely divergent views

ISLAMABAD: The Advocate General (AG) Sindh on Thursday said that accepting the Presidential Reference on the Senate...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:22am

Papers of Hafeez, Vawda accepted, Pervaiz’s rejected

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Thursday accepted the nomination papers of Finance Minister...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:22am

FBR revises functions, powers of Members

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has revised the powers and functions of the FBR Members including...

Updated 19 Feb, 2021 09:22am

BR Research

Interview with Mubariz Siddiqui – Lawyer | General Counsel Sarmayacar

“New policy gives the right signal to institutional investors” Mubariz Siddiqui is a legal practitioner with...

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:45am

BR Research

PSO – Inventory gains driving profits

The oil marketing sector had a tough FY20 where not only the volumetric sales suffered due to restrictions imposed ...

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:40am

BR Research

HBL- bigger and better

HBL doubled its profits in 2020 from a year ago. This is as good as it gets especially considering 2020 was not a...

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:35am

BR Research

Pakistan’s upcoming national food security challenge

Five years ago, Pakistan achieved its highest acreage under wheat – 9.2 million hectares – leading to production...

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:30am

BR Research

IMF review: out of ICU, still under close-watch

IMF programme is coming back in full swing. There is no surprise. The background discussions were ongoing ever since...

Published 19 Feb, 2021 07:25am

Pakistan

Pakistan may be among countries facing water scarcity by 2025: minister

LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Irrigation Mohsin Khan Laghari has said that by 2025, Pakistan is likely to be among the...