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Xiaomi 12 Series Redefines Flagship Category

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Xiaomi today announced the launch of the all-new flagship Xiaomi 12 Series for local markets, featuring two groundbreaking devices: Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12. Designed to empower users around the world with a cutting-edge videography studio and entertainment powerhouse, Xiaomi 12 Series delivers impressive advancements in Xiaomi’s AI algorithm, flagship processing power, and an all-round elevated experience. 

Capture cinematic shots at any time 

Xiaomi 12 Series enables users to record studio-quality shots no matter the scenario, be it challenging lighting conditions or moving objects. Both phones boast a pro-grade triple camera array for versatile shooting, starring a massive 50MP main wide angle camera, with 8K recording capabilities on both Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12.  Xiaomi 12 Pro stands out with its state-of-the-art triple 50MP array, which features a cutting-edge Sony IMX707 ultra-large main sensor. This sensor is capable of catching large amounts of light and empowers advanced imaging capabilities with faster focus speeds and increased color accuracy. Xiaomi 12 features a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera, along with a 5MP tele macro camera, for filming life from different perspectives.  

Beyond impressive hardware, Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also advance Xiaomi’s proprietary AI algorithms. These innovations make it easier than ever for users to record every moment the way they want to, even in low-light or moving subjects. Xiaomi ProFocus intelligently identifies and tracks objects, preventing blurring or out-of-focus shots of moving or veiled subjects. These advancements also include eye and face auto focus capabilities. Ultra Night Video uses Xiaomi’s proprietary algorithms to record video even under extreme low-light, meaning moody, atmospheric shots are clearer than ever.  

Available on both devices, One-click AI Cinema offers numerous creative options for show-stopping video editing, such as Parallel World, Freeze Frame Video, and Magic Zoom modes. 

Flagship processing, unprecedented performance and power-efficiency  

Flagship experience requires flagship performance. Xiaomi 12 Series features advanced Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ mobile platforms. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 boast a Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor – Qualcomm’s most advanced mobile platform. Built on a 4nm process, this processor also boosts GPU graphic rendering capabilities by 30% and energy efficiency by 25% when compared to the previous generation. Both three devices come with UFS 3.1 exceptional loading and data transfer speeds, along with LPDDR5 RAM for memory speeds up to 6,400Mbps. For optimal product experience, Xiaomi 12 Series packs a high-performing cooling system, bolstered by a super-large vapor chamber and multiple layers of graphite to offer a leadingcooling capability. 

All-around elevated entertainment experiences 

Xiaomi 12 Series not only lets users capture every moment in exquisite detail, but also allows them to relive those moments in astonishing detail via an exceptional entertainment experience.  Both devices offer vivid viewing on an AMOLED Dot Display rated A+ by DisplayMate, and with TrueColor support. For added peace of mind, the display features scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®, and supports Dolby Vision®, industry’s leading imaging technology that brings your content to life with vibrant color and details. Xiaomi 12 Series also supports HDR 10+. Xiaomi 12 Pro is SGS Eye Care Display Certified, showing care for users’ long-term visual health during marathon sessions.  

Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12 Pro redefines flagship display with incredibly smooth viewing, scrolling, swiping, and sliding. The device’s highly power-efficient 6.73-inch WQHD+ display leverages AdaptiveSync Pro to intelligently adjust dynamic LTPO display between 1Hz and 120Hz based on content. 

Xiaomi 12 delivers Xiaomi’s most colorful smartphone display to date, with more than 68 billion colors on 6.28-inch full-HD+ displays. Both feature 120Hz AdaptiveSync, for an impressively high-definition, vibrant, and flicker-free display that conveys every detail.  

 No cinematic experience is truly complete without pro-grade audio. Xiaomi 12 Series features SOUND BY Harman Kardon, and creates an immersive audio experience powered by Dolby Atmos®, delivering spatial sound with rich detail, clarity, and realism across all your favorite entertainment. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s quad speakers – in the form of two tweeters and two woofers – deliver clear details and cover an astounding range of sound. Xiaomi 12 delivers balanced stereo sound ideal for immersive gaming or video.  To optimize core user experience further, Xiaomi 12 Series incorporates MIUI 13, released globally earlier this year. The update includes faster storage, higher background process efficiency, smarter processing, and longer battery life. New features in the upgraded experience include Xiaomi’s proprietary Liquid Storage, Atomized Memory, Focused Algorithms, and Smart Balance. 

Next-generation charging 

Xiaomi 12 Series delivers pro-grade cinematic and entertainment experiences all day, the devices deliver next-level charging speed and safety.  

 Xiaomi 12 Pro features an incredibly fast 120W Xiaomi HyperCharge. With a 4,600mAh battery fully charged in just 18 minutes using Boost mode, Xiaomi 12 Pro delivers next-generation charging capabilities that keep up with user demands.  Xiaomi 12 fits a 4,500mAh battery into compact body designs. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also support 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging.  Both leverage Xiaomi AdaptiveCharge, a smart charging algorithm that learns and adapts to charging habits, which prolongs battery life. 

Flagship capabilities packaged in an iconic design  

These portable pocket-sized studios fit comfortably in the palm of your hand thanks to Xiaomi 12 Series’ iconic and user-centered design. Slimmer high-capacity batteries and a narrower ridge gap save precious space within the device. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s 6.73-inch display is encased in a sleek middle frame with sophisticated 3D curves. Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12’s 6.28-inch display measures just 69.9mm in width and is accented by smooth curves for a perfect fit. Both devices are available in Gray, Purple, and Blue. 

Market Availability   

Xiaomi 12 Pro comes in one variant 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 208,999/-.

Xiaomi 12 comes in one variant, 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 179,999/-.

Purchase these devices and get a sweet bundle deal where you get a Mi Band 6 and a bag with the Xiaomi 12. Similarly with the Xiaomi 12 Pro, get a Mi Portable Bluetooth Speaker and a 10000mAh Mi Power Bank 3.  Available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink, Smartlink etc. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore and Daraz. 

Quick Specs:

 Xiaomi 12Xiaomi 12 Pro
Display120Hz +  AMOLED DotDisplay120Hz 6.73” AMOLED Dot Display 
Rear Camera50MP main camera 13MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 5MP depth camera50MP wide angle, ultra-wide and tele macro camera
Front Camera32MP32MP in-display selfie camera
Dimension & Weight152.70mm x 69.90mm x 8.16mm – 180g163.60mm x 74.60mm x 8.16mm 205g
ProcessorSnapdragon ® 8 Gen 1Snapdragon ®r 8 Gen 1
Charging4500mAH – 67W charge4600mAH – 120W charge
Variant12GB + 256GB12GB + 256GB
Color AvailableGray, Purple & BlueGray, Purple & Blue

About Xiaomi Corporation  

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.  

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the coolest company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.  

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.  

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index. 

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

After massive success in the Pakistani Mobile market, TECNO is rumored to be preparing for a new addition to its Spark series. The globally eminent smartphone brand TECNO has been working tirelessly in Pakistan for quite some time now. The brand has brought forward some great phones over the years with advanced technologies, pocket-friendly prices, and stylish designs. 

Spark is TECNO’s famous mid-range series, bringing you quality devices at lower prices. Spark 8C is an entry mobile that is expected to be around PKR 19,499 to PKR 22,999. The price is not confirmed yet but we are expecting it around this segment. The phone is going to be a stunner in this range with Stylish Design and great Battery.

According to sources, Spark 8C will be equipped with better memory and memory fusion features than any other phone in this range. Memory Fusion Technology is specially designed to channel RAM operations by using unused read-only memory (ROM). This means it can expand the memory of 4+128GB to 7+128GB and that of 3+64GB into 6+64GB maximum. The RAM can be updated or expanded from 3GB to 6GB and 4GB to 7GB depending on the variant. If this is true, then Spark 8C shall be the only smartphone to provide such an amazing feature with 128GB in such an affordable price range.

Moreover, the phone is anticipated to provide efficient performance with a powerful processor and big battery. The 90Hz refresh rate, great display, and handy body design will make it a user-friendly device. The phone is expected to launch somewhere in mid-March 2022. Furthermore, the phone is being assembled in Pakistan to make it economical and pocket-friendly for the local consumers. 

So, fingers crossed for this new Spark device to be soon launched in Pakistan. Stay tuned for more updates and much more about tech!

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

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Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator (part of VEON Group NASDAQ: VEON, Euronext Amsterdam: VEON), announces the appointment of Atyab Tahir as the CEO of JazzCash effective May 1 2022.

Atyab, currently serving as Country Manager MasterCard Pakistan & Afghanistan, has over two decades of international experience in banking and consulting. Atyab has also held senior positions at Fidelity Investments, HBL, Telenor Bank and easypaisa. He holds a BA from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Babson College.

Commenting on Atyab’s appointment Aamir Ibrahim, CEO, Jazz  said: “While mobile phones and payment solutions have accelerated financial inclusion in the country, a significant portion of Pakistan’s adult population remain unbanked. I am confident that under Atyab’s dynamic leadership JazzCash will help boost financial inclusion across the board through innovative and customer-centric products.”

JazzCash is at the forefront of Pakistan’s digital revolution processing more than 5 million transactions every day and accounting for almost 7% of Pakistan’s GDP. Our aim is to build a world-class fintech serving every single Pakistani, from youth, SMEs, freelancers, with a very strong focus on the unbanked and the underbanked. I look forward to joining the Jazz family and collaborating with our partners in the telecommunications and financial services sector to unlock the true potential of Digital Pakistan.” said Atyab.

A division of Jazz, JazzCash has grown rapidly to become a leader in the country’s marketplace for digital financial services. As shown in VEON Group’s FY21 results that were released on 28 February 2022, JazzCash has 15.2 million monthly active users (+24.9% YoY) and 130,800 monthly active merchants (up by 2.3 times YoY). 

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash.

vivo V23 5G — The Best in Camera, Technology, Performance and Appearance

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Due to the constant development in the technology space for smartphones, there is always hype surrounding any new ‘firsts’ in the market. There is always excitement as to what will be introduced and how well it will be accepted by the audience. 

Keeping this in mind, Vivo’s latest smartphone vivo V23 5G finds itself in a similar situation. The day it was announced, it received a lot of attention for its color-changing design. The design itself represents a significant advancement in smartphone research and design. Making smartphones not only technologically superior but also cosmetically superior is a step forward.

The continual excitement and experience since the smartphone’s launch has not only solidified its market position but also demonstrated that it is a well-balanced phone that isn’t only focused on aesthetics.

Delving more into the device, the vivo V23 5G dons a high-resolution 50MP AF Portrait Selfie camera on the front. This device focuses heavily on the selfie experience which makes it stand out in the market. The latest ISOCELL 3.0 technology helps the camera increase light sensitivity to capture a more crystal-clear picture for the user. Furthermore, the Eye Autofocus feature enables the users to be the center of attention while clicking the picture as the camera focuses on the user, even if they are in motion. 

The dual front camera system offers a much larger field of view with the help of its 8MP Super Wide-Angle Camera. Furthermore, with modes like the AI Extreme Night Portrait mode, the front camera delivers an unparalleled experience in this price range. The phone also sports a 64 MP main rear camera with an 8MP wide-angle lens and a 2MP Macro that can handle wide natural landscapes very easily. The user experience is further increased with features like the Super Night Mode, Bokeh Flare Portrait, and Ultra Stabilization. It is only right to say that both, the front camera and the rear camera together offer a device that is picture-perfect. 

When it comes to the visual and performance aspects of this phone, there’s no doubt that it’s the best of what vivo has to offer. vivo has always been on the cutting edge of device design and aesthetics. It’s also fair to say that Vivo takes pride in its technological advancements and innovations. Every device that vivo introduces exemplifies this completion.

V23 5G brings out the result of Vivo’s extensive research which is the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design. This material changes its color upon exposure to ultraviolet light and after about 30 seconds under the sun. This switch goes back to normal once the phone is out of sun exposure. Talking more about the appearance of the device, it is the combination of the Metal Flat Frame Design and the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design that gives the device the aesthetic appeal that has been the talk in the industry for a while now. 

All these powerful features that the phone flaunts are powered by the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 920 processor. This processor offers powerful performance and a fast user experience. The Extended RAM 2.0 further enhances the user experience with its versatile features to expand RAM when required. The 90Hz refresh rate display, a Liquid Cooling System, and Ultra Game Mode make it possible for users to enjoy super smooth gameplay performance. This experience is mutually assisted by the 4200mAh battery that features a 44W FlashCharge that helps in interrupted experience and performance. 

To summarise it all, the vivo V23 5G is a proud and well-balanced device that fulfills the requirements of every smartphone enthusiast whether it is for work, casual, or professional usage.

 

Tech Giant XIAOMI launches anticipated Redmi Note 11 Pro – Packing major upgraded to hardwares & software!

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Xiaomi announced the Redmi Note 11 Pro for Pakistani markets, pushing forward the legacy of the Redmi Note series with two all-new devices: Redmi Note 11 Pro and Redmi Note 11. Rising to the challenge to bring even stronger specs and features, Redmi Note 11 series packs powerful upgrades to its camera system, charging speed, display, and SoC—making flagship-level smartphone performance more accessible than before. All this available in a bundle deal, with Redmi Buds 3 completely free.

Flagship-level 108MP quad camera to deliver outstanding photography

Boasting a rear quad camera setup, Redmi Note 11 Pro delivers an outstanding photography experience with zero compromise. Its 108MP main camera captures stunning images in high-resolution and vivid colors; an 8MP ultra-wide angle camera extends your perspective with a 118-degree viewing angle; a 2MP macro camera that captures fine details up close and a 2MP depth sensor that’s for capturing more natural looking portrait shots. Accenting the front of the phone is a 16MP front camera that can capture clearer and natural-looking selfies. The 108MP pro-grade main camera utilizes the Samsung HM2 sensor with a large sensor size at 1/1.52 inch, and supports 9-in-1 pixel binning technology as well as a dual native ISO to deliver incredible images in all lighting conditions, with spectacular results especially in dim light.

120Hz FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay packed into trendy flat-edge body

Featuring a large 6.67′ FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay with 120Hz display refresh rate, Redmi Note 11 Pro levels up the screen experience with smooth scrolling response and lag-free transitions. The beautiful display is packed into a body with a trendy flat-edge design. Plus, with the dual super linear speakers located at the top and bottom of the phone, Redmi Note 11 offers immersive stereo sound for gaming or watching videos.

Performance powered by 67W turbo charging and MediaTek Helio G96

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes with flagship 67W turbo charging, allowing you to charge up

to 51% of its 5,000mAh high capacity battery in just 15 minutes Powered by MediaTek Helio G96, Redmi Note 11 Pro also delivers a smooth and seamless performance.

Market availability:

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes in two variants – 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB and are available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink Communication, Smartlink and Tech Sirat. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore.

Redmi Note 11 Pro

6GB+128GB: PKR 51,999/-

8GB+128GB: PKR 59,999/-

Redmi Note 11 Quick Specs:

 Redmi Note 11
Display120Hz  6.67” FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay
Rear Camera108MP main camera 8MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 2MP depth camera
Front Camera16MP in-display front camera
Dimension & Weight164.19mm x 76.1mm x 8.12mm 202g
ProcessorMediaTek Helio G96
Charging5,000mAh (typ) battery Supports 67W wired Pro fast charging
Variant6GB+128GB, 8GB+128GB
Available ColorGraphite Gray, Polar White, Star Blue

The Redmi Note 11 Pro is available at PKR 51,999/- for the 6+128GB variant and PKR 59,999/- for the 8+128GB variant. A bundle deal with Redmi Buds 3 absolutely free!

About Xiaomi Corporation

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the Coolest Company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index.

Petrol and Diesel Prices Expected to Rise on March 1

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Petroleum product prices in Pakistan are likely to increase this week, with revised rates expected to take effect from 1st March 2026, pending government approval. According to Arif Habib Limited, the proposed increase could reach up to Rs. 6.8 per litre.

Petrol and Diesel Rates

  • Motor Spirit (MS) Petrol is expected to rise by Rs. 5.13 per litre, bringing the price to Rs. 263.30 per litre.

  • High-Speed Diesel (HSD) may increase by Rs. 6.8 per litre, reaching Rs. 282.50 per litre.

Reason for Price Increase

The rise in petroleum prices is mainly attributed to an increase in international oil prices, with Arab Light crude up 2.7%. A slight increase in spreads has also contributed to the hike.

For comparison, in the previous fortnight, the government raised HSD prices to Rs. 275.7 per litre and petrol to Rs. 258.17 per litre.

Punjab districts ranked under KPI system: Lodhran tops, Bahawalnagar second, Okara third

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Lahore: The Board of Revenue Punjab has released its Key Performance Indicators (KPI) dashboard for January 2026. The report ranks districts across Punjab based on their overall administrative performance.

The evaluation covers several important areas, including revenue recovery, land record management, disposal of court cases, digitisation, and public service delivery standards. The purpose of this ranking system is to promote transparency, efficiency, and healthy competition among district administrations.

According to the official dashboard, Lodhran secured the first position with an impressive score of 96.08 points. Bahawalnagar ranked second with 94.60 points, while Okara stood third with 94.04 points. These three districts were the only ones to cross the 94-point mark, showing outstanding performance in multiple governance indicators.

The rest of the top ten districts included Narowal with 92.05 points, Jhang with 91.41 points, Chiniot with 90.96 points, Hafizabad with 88.48 points, Rajanpur with 88.01 points, Faisalabad with 87.81 points, and Bahawalpur with 87.23 points.

A large number of districts achieved scores between 80 and 89 points. These include Sahiwal, Vehari, Pakpattan, Sheikhupura, Mandi Bahauddin, Rahim Yar Khan, Nankana Sahib, and Sargodha. Their performance reflects steady progress in service delivery and digital reforms.

Major urban districts showed average results. Lahore recorded 80.09 points, Rawalpindi scored 78.20, Multan reached 75.64, and Sialkot stood at 74.75. These districts remained in the middle of the ranking table.

At the lower end of the list, Dera Ghazi Khan, Wazirabad, Muzaffargarh, Bhakkar, and Kot Addu reported comparatively weak performance. Kot Addu ranked last with only 46.44 points, highlighting a clear gap between high-performing and low-performing districts.

The KPI framework assesses district administrations on several benchmarks, including revenue collection targets, accuracy of land records, speed of case disposal in revenue courts, progress in digitisation, and quality of public services.

The January 2026 report shows a competitive performance environment across Punjab. While many districts are clustered around the 80-point range, a noticeable performance gap exists at the lower end, indicating the need for administrative improvements in underperforming areas.

Officials believe that such performance dashboards help strengthen accountability and encourage districts to improve governance standards for the benefit of citizens.

State Bank Reserves Increase by $16 Million

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Foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) recorded inflows of $16 million during the week ended February 20, 2026, reflecting a 0.1% week-on-week increase.

According to the central bank’s weekly report released on Thursday, SBP’s reserves rose to $16.213 billion, up from $16.197 billion in the previous week.

Total Liquid Reserves Cross $21.4 Billion

Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves increased by $106 million over the week, reaching $21.408 billion as of February 20, 2026, compared to $21.302 billion a week earlier.

The overall improvement suggests steady external inflows supporting the country’s reserve position.

Commercial Bank Reserves Remain Stable

Net foreign reserves held by commercial banks stood at $5.195 billion, showing no change on a weekly basis.

The combined figures indicate stability in Pakistan’s external account, with gradual improvements in central bank holdings contributing to overall reserve growth.

Pakistan Stock Exchange Hits Record 5 Lakh Investors

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The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has crossed a major milestone, with total investors exceeding 500,000 for the first time in its history — underscoring a sharp rise in retail participation.

According to official data, the total number of investors reached 502,024 as of February 26. This marks a significant expansion in the country’s equity market base.

Record Monthly Account Openings

January 2026 recorded the highest-ever monthly increase, with 20,600 new accounts opened. February has already added more than 18,000 investors, indicating sustained growth momentum.

The consistent rise in new accounts reflects growing confidence and easier access to digital trading platforms.

Growing Retail Participation

Khurram Schehzad, adviser to the finance minister, said a substantial share of the new entrants are young retail investors.

He added that total investors across Pakistan’s public markets — including equities, commodities, and mutual funds — now stand at approximately 1.3 million.

Broader Financial Inclusion

Schehzad described the milestone as evidence of expanding participation in capital markets and a broadening investor base.

The growth aligns with government efforts to deepen financial inclusion, strengthen domestic investment channels, and enhance the overall depth of Pakistan’s financial markets.

Government Grants 11 New Oil and Gas Blocks to Local Companies

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The Government of Pakistan has awarded 11 new onshore oil and gas exploration blocks to domestic exploration and production (E&P) companies, securing minimum investment commitments exceeding $31 million over the next three years. The move is part of broader efforts to strengthen domestic energy production and reduce reliance on imported fuels.

The Petroleum Division formalized the awards by signing Petroleum Concession Agreements and Exploration Licences at a ceremony in Islamabad on Thursday, according to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik.

Block Distribution Across Provinces

Of the 11 awarded blocks:

  • Eight are located in Balochistan

  • Two are in Sindh

  • One is in Punjab

The majority of winning bidders are state-backed energy companies, reflecting the government’s strategy to leverage domestic expertise and capital for upstream development.

Key Operators and Joint Ventures

Several leading energy firms secured exploration rights, including Oil and Gas Development Company Ltd. (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Ltd. (PPL), Mari Energies Ltd., Pakistan Oilfields Ltd. (POL), and Prime Global Energies.

Mari Energies

Mari Energies emerged as a major operator in this round, securing six blocks. The company obtained 100% working interest in five blocks — Padag, Chagai, Dalbandin, Merui, and Merui West. It will also operate the Ahmad Wal block with a 60% stake, alongside OGDCL, which holds the remaining 40%.

OGDCL

OGDCL will operate three blocks, including Kalat North with full working interest. It will also lead two joint ventures:

  • Naing Sharif (70% OGDCL, 30% Prime Global Energies)

  • Khiu-II (60% OGDCL, 40% Mari Energies)

Pakistan Petroleum Ltd. (PPL)

PPL emerged as the highest bidder for the Kalat South block and will operate it with a 40% working interest, in partnership with OGDCL (30%) and Mari Energies (30%).

Pakistan Oilfields Ltd. (POL)

Pakistan Oilfields Ltd. secured the Jherruk block with 100% working interest.

Investment and Social Commitments

In addition to the minimum $31 million exploration investment, the companies have collectively committed more than 276 million rupees toward social welfare initiatives in the respective exploration areas.

Officials noted that if commercial hydrocarbon discoveries are made, substantially larger investments — potentially running into hundreds of millions of dollars — would follow for field development and production. Such developments could significantly support Pakistan’s energy security objectives and help reduce the country’s dependence on costly energy imports.

The latest licensing round signals continued momentum in Pakistan’s upstream energy sector, with domestic firms playing a central role in exploration and future production growth.

Business Leaders in Pakistan Press IMF for Economic Stability and Export Incentives

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Pakistan’s largest business groups have urged the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to ensure predictable, long-term economic policies, warning that uncertainty and a heavy tax burden are constraining growth and competitiveness.

The appeal came during a meeting between senior executives from around 18 major domestic and foreign corporations and IMF mission chief Iva Petrova, held on the second day of the Fund’s two-week review visit. The discussion was hosted by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI).

Focus on Taxes, Energy, and Exports

Participants said the talks centered on taxation, rising energy costs, and the urgent need to revive exports, which have declined by more than 7% in the first seven months of the current fiscal year.

Business leaders pressed the IMF to back time-bound tax incentives and other measures to boost overseas sales and attract investment. They argued that high corporate tax rates, increased levies on salaried individuals, and the controversial “super tax” are eroding profitability and weakening Pakistan’s competitive position.

Several executives also called for accelerated privatization of power distribution companies, saying inefficiencies in the energy sector continue to inflate costs for industry.

IMF Urges Caution Against Rapid Expansion

According to participants, Petrova emphasized that Pakistan must pursue phased and sustainable growth to avoid slipping back into the boom-and-bust cycles that have historically destabilized the economy.

While the IMF expressed general satisfaction with progress under the ongoing reform program, concerns remain regarding tax policy and structural weaknesses in the energy sector.

Social Pressures Mount

The IMF mission’s visit comes at a time of rising social strain. A recent official report shows poverty at an 11-year high, unemployment at a 21-year high, and income inequality at a 27-year peak. The government attributes much of this hardship to tough stabilization measures implemented under the IMF-backed reform program.

Corporate representatives warned that policy inconsistency and excessive taxation are undermining business confidence. One conglomerate told the IMF delegation that various taxes and levies consume nearly 90% of its profits. Others highlighted export bottlenecks and the disadvantage faced by compliant, documented businesses due to widespread tax evasion in the informal sector.

Reform Progress — But Growth Is Key

Petrova acknowledged that expanding the tax base would take time and indicated that the IMF is reviewing the recently introduced captive power policy, with possible adjustments under consideration.

However, Hussain stressed that the next phase must focus squarely on growth.

“The priority now is to transition from stabilization to a phased yet sustained export-led growth path,” he said, advocating for a centrally coordinated, technocrat-backed medium-term reform strategy under a comprehensive National Economic Plan.

Call for Policy Coherence

OICCI Secretary General M. Abdul Aleem echoed the call for greater predictability and regulatory reform. He urged the government to rationalize the tax and tariff regime, avoid retrospective taxation, ensure timely refund payments, and simplify compliance procedures.

Business leaders argue that without coherent and consistent policymaking, Pakistan risks missing its geo-economic potential at a time when stability has finally begun to take hold.

vivo Announces MWC 2026 Attendance; Set to Showcase New Flagship X300 Ultra

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Lahore, Pakistan, February 27, 2026 – vivo today announced its attendance at Mobile World Congress 2026 (MWC 2026), taking place in Barcelona from March 2 to 5. At the event, vivo will offer the first global preview of its upcoming flagship, the X300 Ultra, and present its key conference message for the future of mobile innovation under the theme “Where Vision Meets.”

vivo to Attend MWC 2026

vivo’s debut at MWC marks a strategic milestone in its evolution as a global technology leader, reflecting the company’s commitment to deepening its global presence and advancing its premium portfolio. As one of the world’s most influential platforms for mobile technology, MWC offers vivo a global stage to engage with international media, industry leaders, operators, and partners, while demonstrating its long-term commitment to high-end innovation.

At the center of vivo’s MWC 2026 showcase will be the preview of the X300 Ultra, providing an early look at vivo’s latest premium design language and imaging advancements.

The X300 Ultra represents vivo’s most advanced exploration to date in mobile imaging and videography, building on the company’s continued investment in optics engineering, computational photography, and system-level optimization.

Visitors to the vivo booth will experience the uniquely inspired design of the X300 Ultra, drawn from the company’s professional imaging heritage. In addition, vivo will showcase a broader lineup of products at MWC 2026, including the X300 Series, vivo X Fold5, V70 Series, with hands-on demonstrations to illustrate how advanced technologies in imaging, AI, and system performance translate into intuitive, human-centered experiences.

vivo’s presence at MWC 2026 underscores its steadfast commitment to engaging more deeply with the global mobile ecosystem and competing at the forefront of the premium segment. By bringing together product innovation, refined design, and ecosystem collaboration, vivo aims to demonstrate how technology can enhance perception, expression, and connection in everyday life.