Pakistan Seeks IMF Approval for New Tax to Fund Rs213 Billion Jinnah Medical Complex
Pakistan has approached the IMF for approval to impose a new municipal tax in Islamabad to finance the Rs213 billion Jinnah Medical Complex, while also exploring alternative funding options including budget reallocations and Panda bonds.
SBP Policy Rate Expected to Hold at 11% as Flood-Driven Inflation Risks Weigh on Outlook
State Bank of Pakistan is likely to keep the policy rate unchanged at 11% in its September 2025 meeting as floods drive inflation risks and currency pressures persist.
KSE-100 Crosses 154,000 Mark for First Time as PSX Maintains Record-Breaking Momentum
Pakistan Stock Exchange’s KSE-100 Index closes above 154,000 points for the first time, fueled by strong earnings, $7 billion China deals, and robust investor sentiment.
SBP Injects Over Rs266 Billion Through OMO to Ease Market Liquidity
The State Bank of Pakistan has injected Rs266.6 billion into the banking system via reverse repo and Shariah-compliant Modarabah-based Open Market Operations to address liquidity needs.
Pakistan’s Forex Reserves Edge Up to $14.30 Billion Amid Stable Inflows
Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the SBP rose by $28 million to $14.30 billion as of August 29, 2025, reflecting stable inflows and cautious management. Total liquid reserves stood at $19.66 billion, with commercial banks holding $5.36 billion.
Gold Hits Record Rs376,700 as Global Rally and Fed Speculation Drive Demand
Gold prices in Pakistan soared to a record Rs376,700 per tola as global demand strengthened on expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut. With spot gold hitting new highs internationally and Pakistan’s rupee extending its gains, the financial landscape highlights the impact of global uncertainties and domestic monetary policy.
A Game of Corridors: Pakistan at the Crossroads of Geoeconomics
Pakistan is reshaping its geoeconomic strategy, moving beyond reliance on China’s CPEC to diversify trade and investment through partnerships with the US, Gulf states, Turkey, Central Asia, and Bangladesh. This shift signals a new chapter in how Islamabad aims to convert geography into long-term prosperity.
After the Fire: Pakistan’s Markets in the Summer of Wars
In the summer of 2025, wars in South Asia and the Middle East battered Pakistan’s markets. From a currency slump to oil price shocks, the economy endured turbulence but managed to stabilize. The story of survival, not prosperity, defined these months.
Pakistan’s Trade Deficit Widens 30% YoY to $2.9 Billion in August 2025 Amid Export Decline
Pakistan’s trade deficit surged to $2.9 billion in August 2025, driven by shrinking exports and rising imports. Official data highlights growing external pressures, with the trade gap up nearly 30% year-on-year despite a month-on-month improvement.
Understanding Pakistan’s Federal Budget: The Role of IMF Borrowing in Economic Strategy
Pakistan’s federal budget reflects a deep reliance on IMF programs, shaping fiscal priorities, debt management, and future growth strategies. Understanding the role of IMF borrowing is crucial to assessing the country’s economic path.