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Strategic Leap: Pakistan Eyes Chinese Capital Markets with Panda Bonds Initiative

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb recently emphasized the potential of accessing Chinese capital markets by introducing Panda bonds, as a strategic measure to enhance Pakistan’s economic prospects. Aurangzeb highlighted the strategic significance of this project during his speech at the “Pak-China Business Forum” in Shenzhen. This initiative represents a crucial change in Pakistan’s economic strategy under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The Pakistani delegation, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sharif, arrived in China with a specific agenda: to investigate opportunities for gaining access to Chinese capital markets and to enhance bilateral commercial relations. Aurangzeb’s comments at the forum emphasized the preparedness and meticulous planning that had been invested in this project. Pakistan seeks to emulate the successful integration of the Egyptian model into the Chinese capital markets in order to achieve a stable and resilient economic future.

Aurangzeb confirmed that the initial phases of this endeavor are already under progress, with Pakistani officials maintaining regular contact with Chinese regulatory entities. This collaboration demonstrates a firm dedication to guaranteeing the seamless execution of the Panda bond program. The finance minister expressed assurance that the plan would begin in the next fiscal year, indicating a proactive and forward-thinking approach to economic management.

Aurangzeb noted a decline in inflation in May, crediting this favorable outcome to the structural economic reforms implemented under Sharif’s tenure. The decrease not only reflects the effectiveness of previous economic policies but also instills trust in Pakistan’s ability to govern its economy. The finance minister’s focus on Special Economic Zones (SEZs) highlights Pakistan’s economic policy’s strategic orientation. Pakistan’s objective is to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI) by promoting export-driven economic growth through the establishment of SEZs. These zones are specifically created to promote collaboration between companies and the exchange of technology, fostering a vibrant business climate that stimulates innovation and competitiveness.

The Pak-China Business Forum also emphasized the growing trust of global investors in Pakistan’s economic prospects. Aurangzeb acknowledged Prime Minister Sharif’s role in spearheading these economic achievements and establishing a favorable atmosphere for progress and prosperity. The event provided a venue to demonstrate Pakistan’s dedication to economic reform and its preparedness to participate in global financial markets.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s speech at the Pak-China Business Forum highlights an important point in Pakistan’s economic trajectory. The implementation of Panda bonds and the prioritization of key industries like agriculture and IT indicate a revolutionary approach to economic governance. Pakistan is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging prospects, stimulate economic expansion, and establish a robust and varied economy. Adopting a proactive approach is crucial for successfully navigating the complex challenges of the global economic environment and securing a prosperous future for Pakistan. 

Web Desk by — June 6, 2024 in News
Elevating Smartphone Standards with Xiaomi’s Smooth & Stylish Redmi A3x

Lahore, Pakistan – 24th May, 2024:  Xiaomi announced the all-new Redmi A3x,  boasting a sleek camera deco, seamlessly integrating elegance with functionality. Its stylish glass back, along with minimalist aesthetics, enhance the daily experience with a touch of sophistication. Redmi A3x offers an enjoyable and immersive visual experience with its 6.71″ display. And with a 90Hz refresh rate, every swipe and scroll is as smooth as butter – perfect for all your browsing and binge-watching needs. Moreover,  powered by the octa-core Unisoc T603 chipset,  3GB + 64GB RAM is available in the Pakistani market.  Its massive 5000mAh battery lasts all day, supported by a Type-C charging port, retaining up to 80% capacity after 800 charge cycles. With microSD card support for up to 1TB storage, Redmi A3x offers high-capacity storage, and the dual unlock options- fingerprint and face unlock- provide quick, secure access. Experience durability with Corning® Gorilla Glass, safeguarding your screen from everyday wear and tear.

Market Availability

Redmi A3x is now available online at Mistore, Corecart, Daraz, and Xiaomi sale. It will also be available nationwide in all retail outlets.

Our Distributors are Tech Sirat, Airlink Communications, Smartlink Technologies, Core Tech, Phonezo Impex, and Burque.

Redmi A3x has 1 variant available.  The variant is 3 + 64 GB, Price is 18,999.

Device Specifications

SpecificationsRedmi A3x
Display6.71″ 90 Hz Display
Rear Camera            8MP AI Dual Camera System
Front Camera                       5MP Selfie Camera
Battery5000mAh (typ)
ProcessorUnisoc T603
ColorMoonlight White, Midnight black, Aurora green

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.

 With an equal emphasis on innovation and quality, Xiaomi continuously pursues 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.

 As of the second quarter of 2023, Xiaomi ranked among the top 3 in the global smartphone market, in terms of smartphone shipments, according to Canalys. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, with 654.5 million smart devices connected to its platform, excluding smartphones, tablets and laptops, as of June 30, 2023. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2023, the company listed as Fortune Global 500 for the 5th consecutive year.

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

Web Desk by — May 24, 2024 in News
Pakistan’s leading advertising and marketing company Synergy Group celebrates its Silver Jubilee Anniversary

KARACHI, May 22nd, 2024: Synergy Group, a leader in the integrated marketing communication (IMC) industry, celebrated its 25th Anniversary recently.

Founded in 1999 by Ahmed Kapadia, Synergy Group began its journey with a clear mission of fostering a work culture where teamwork, experimentation, and knowledge-sharing are paramount. The Group’s 25th Anniversary was marked by celebrations of its achievements, collaborative culture, and continuous growth.

“Synergy Group’s success over the years is a testament to our unflinching belief in the power of collaboration, innovation and limitless potential,” said Kapadia, Chairman of Synergy Group.

“From our humble beginnings, we have always encouraged our team to dare to dream big, experiment, learn, and grow together. It is this spirit of unity, teamwork and the challenger mindset that has driven us to achieve remarkable milestones over the past 25 years.”

Understanding the challenges and the opportunities that the world of IMC offers in Pakistan, Synergy Group remained ahead of the curve and established brands and companies that are involved in BTL marketing, digital media, public relations, media buying, publications, and activation campaigns.

The Group now stands tall in the country, having established 12 companies and brands namely Synergy Advertising for advertising and communication solutions, Synite Digital for digital media solutions, Synchronize Media for media buying, Syntax Communications for public relations, Synergy Marketing for event and BTL marketing, Syntinel for data lab and analytics solutions, Syndicate – the Synergy Group’s Content Hub, and the not-for-profit Latif Kapadia Memorial Welfare Trust (LKMWT) which is aimed at helping the poor and the needy.

With four offices in Pakistan’s three main cities – Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, and nearly 300 employees at its disposal, Synergy Group has expanded its reach to all the regions of the country, catering to 75+ clients across a wide range of industries.

Synergy Group’s crowning moment came when it won its first international award at Abby Awards and was officially lauded with two Silver Awards at iCOM for the Asia Pacific region. In total, it has won more than 200 awards including 25 Awards at PDA, 11 Effie Awards (six of which came this year), two PAS Awards, 10 APNS Awards, 17 PAA Awards, and one win each at Dragons of Asia and Dragons of Pakistan.

Synergy Group remains committed to its core values of collaboration, innovation, and learning. With plans to expand its services and explore new markets, the Group is poised to continue its legacy of excellence and drive forward with the same passion and dedication that marked its inception.

Web Desk by — May 24, 2024 in Business
POCO creates a new flagship market segment with the latest generation F-series

Lahore, Pakistan –24th May 2024:  – POCO, a popular technology brand among young tech enthusiasts, is set to redefine the mobile flagship segment with the launch of its new POCO F6 series with massive performance and experience upgrades to delight hardcore gamers, photography enthusiasts and tech lovers alike. Powered by the new Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 chipset delivering accelerated performance, the POCO F6 Pro is an all-around flagship. It features a 6.67-inch ultra-clear WQHD+ 120HzFlow AMOLED display with ultra-thin bezels and offers users a fully immersive visual experience. POCO F6 is a performance flagship driven by speed. It features the highly anticipated Snapdragon® 8s Gen 3 with WildBoost Optimization 3.0 and LiquidCool Technology 4.0, designed to deliver dedicated gamers the ultimate gaming experience. POCO is more than a smartphone brand.

The new POCO F6 Pro is an all-around flagship that closes the gap on high-end performance phones. It packs a flagship WQHD+ 120Hz Flow AMOLED display with 2K resolution, 4000nits peak brightness, 3840Hz PWM dimming 1, and TÜV Rheinland eye-care certification. POCO F6 Pro also boasts the best camera sensor system in the POCO range, ensuring clearer details in even the most complicated shots. New Dual Native ISO Fusion technology features a high and low gain channel with a maximum exposure difference of up to 16 times.

POCO F6 offers a truly flagship mobile gaming experience, powered by the latest highly anticipated Snapdragon® processor. With a key focus on CPU and AI capabilities, the X4prime core supporting the CPU delivers top-tier performance. With an AnTuTu score of over 1.53 million 3, the POCO F6 easily outperforms most smartphones in its segment, delivering smooth, effortless all-around performance. POCO F6 also comes with OIS and EIS, now a standard. POCO F6 also introduces the first CrystalRes display in the POCO F Series. A super-clear flagship quality 6.67-inch Flow AMOLED DotDisplay offers a 120Hz refresh rate, 2400nitspeak brightness, and 68 billion colors, delivering a vivid experience and stunning 1.5Khigh-definition quality.  Other flagship photography features include 4K video with 60 FPS, enabling cinematic-style ultra-clear video at a high frame rate. With the powerful chipset, MotionTracking Focus 2.0 can track the movement of people, animals, and insects for even the most committed nature photographer

Market Availability

POCO F6 Series is now available online at Mistore, Corecart, Daraz, and Xiaomi sale. It will also be available nationwide in all retail outlets.

Our Distributors are Tech Sirat, Airlink Communications, Smartlink Technologies, Core Tech, Phonezo Impex, and Burque.

POCO F6 is available in 12+512GB Variant. Price is PKR 144,999.

POCO F6 Pro is available in 12+512 GB Variant. Price is PKR 174,999.

Early Bird Offer Price for POCO F6: PKR 134,999

Early Bird Offer Price for POCO F6 Pro is: PKR 169,999

Launch Time for Early Bird Offer: 23rd May, 2024, 9 p.m. on mistore.pk, xiaomisale.com & corecart.pk, valid for a limited time.

Device Specifications

SpecificationsPOCO F6 ProPOCO F6
DisplayWQHD+ 120HzFlow AMOLED display 6.67” CrystalRes 1.5K Flow AMOLED DotDisplay
Rear Camera50MP Triple camera with OIS50MP main camera with OIS
Front Camera    8MP Ultra- wide Camera           20MP front camera
Battery5000mAh (typ)5000mAh (typ)
Processor       Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2Snapdragon® 8s Gen 3
ColorBlack & WhiteBlack & Green

About POCO:

 POCO is a young independent brand born out of Xiaomi Corporation. As of now, POCO has entered 98 global markets. The POCO philosophy – “Everything You Need, Nothing You Don’t” – drives the brand to focus its research and development efforts entirely on POCO fans’ requirements and feedback. This relentless pursuit of technology that its fans truly need democratizes decision-making to accelerate the company’s evolution and refresh the smartphone industry.

Web Desk by — May 23, 2024 in News
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Unveils Exciting Tourism Initiatives!

Get ready for breathtaking aerial tours and thrilling adventures! The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a bunch of exciting initiatives to boost tourism in the province. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Soaring Through Paradise: Helicopter Tours for Tourists

Imagine soaring over majestic mountains and picturesque valleys in a helicopter! This dream will soon become a reality for tourists visiting KP. The provincial government is launching a helicopter service specifically designed for sightseers. Initially, the service will be available in the stunning Chitral region, but plans are underway to expand it to other popular tourist destinations.

Adventure Awaits at Elite Adventure Theme Park

Calling all thrill-seekers! The newly inaugurated Elite Adventure Theme Park in Nithia Gali is ready to pump up your adrenaline. Packed with 48 exciting activities – 8 happening outdoors and 40 adventuresome experiences indoors – this park promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Enhancing Tourist Facilities in Naran and Kaghan

The government is taking steps to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for tourists visiting the scenic Naran and Kaghan Valleys. Measures are being implemented to improve facilities and infrastructure in these popular destinations.

Improved Healthcare for Tourists and Residents

The focus isn’t just on tourism! The KP government is also prioritizing the health and well-being of both tourists and residents. Here’s what they’ve got planned:

  • Faster Medical Response: Motorbike response units equipped with advanced medical supplies will be established in remote areas to provide prompt medical assistance in emergencies.
  • Hayatabad as a Healthcare Hub: Hayatabad is set to be declared a dedicated Healthcare City, offering a concentrated hub for advanced medical services.
  • Enhanced Hospital Services: Government hospitals across the province will benefit from the establishment of Health Information and Service Delivery Units, making it easier for patients to access healthcare resources.

These initiatives highlight the KP government’s commitment to making the province a top tourist destination while also ensuring the well-being of its residents. So, pack your bags, adventure awaits in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa!

Web Desk by — May 18, 2024 in News
Pakistan Navy Receives First Cutting-Edge Hangor-Class Submarine from China

Karachi, Pakistan – In a major boost to its maritime security capabilities, the Pakistan Navy recently celebrated the launch of its first Hangor-class submarine, built in China. This marks a significant step forward in the ever-growing defense partnership between Pakistan and China.

The launching ceremony, held at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group (WSIG) in Wuhan, China, was attended by Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of Pakistan. Admiral Ashraf emphasized the importance of maintaining a secure and stable maritime environment in the region, highlighting that the Hangor-class submarines, equipped with advanced weapons and sensors, will be crucial in achieving this goal.

Stronger Together: Pakistan and China Deepen Defense Ties

This launch is part of a larger agreement signed between Pakistan and the China-Pakistan Combined Shipbuilding Corporation (CSOC) during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Pakistan. The agreement calls for the construction of a total of eight Hangor-class submarines. Four will be built in China, while the remaining four will be manufactured at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) in Pakistan, facilitating a transfer of technology between the two nations.

Modernization and Self-Reliance

These submarines boast modern weaponry and sensors, allowing them to engage targets from a safe distance. The project not only strengthens Pakistan’s naval defense but also fosters its self-reliance in shipbuilding through the technology transfer aspect of the agreement.

The ceremony was a testament to the strong bond between Pakistan and China. High-ranking officials from both countries, including representatives from CSOC and WSIG, were present to celebrate this milestone achievement.

This launch, coupled with the recent induction of two Chinese-built frigates into the Pakistan Navy, signifies a new chapter in regional maritime security and cooperation.

Web Desk by — April 28, 2024 in News
Beat the Heat: Hyundai Motor’s Innovative Nano Cooling Film to Help Pakistani Customers Keep Cool

·         Hyundai Motor launches campaign to install the world’s first Nano Cooling Film for free on more than 70 Hyundai vehicles in the test market, Lahore, Pakistan

·         Nano Cooling Film blocks external heat and emits internal radiant heat to the outside while maintaining high transparency to allow unobstructed vision

·         The material significantly reduces a vehicle’s interior temperature without violating local regulations, resulting in increased comfort and reduced energy consumption

·         To expect entering mass production of the technology in the future

LAHORE, PAKISTAN, April 22, 2024 – Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) today launched the ‘Made Cooler By Hyundai’ campaign in Lahore, Pakistan, to bring relief to local drivers struggling with summer heat and energy costs.

Through the campaign, the company will apply the world’s first Nano Cooling Film to the windows of more than 70 Hyundai vehicles.

Nano Cooling Film not only blocks solar heat but also radiates infrared rays from inside the vehicle to the outside. This innovative transparent film maximizes heat dissipation by incorporating a nanostructure with excellent heat transfer characteristics.

Hyundai Motor selected the Lahore market to introduce its transparent film, where attaching tinted film to windows is prohibited for security reasons.

This innovative solution aims to provide relief to local drivers who face the challenges of scorching summer heat exceeding 50°C and high energy costs caused by excessive air conditioning. Nano Cooling Film can reduce the interior temperature by over 10°C without darkening the windows and complies with local laws.

Hyundai Motor has actively promoted the campaign through local media and influencers and is also displaying exclusively designed “Made Cooler By Hyundai’ stickers on the vehicles that have the film applied.

Nano Cooling Film surpasses conventional tint films in its ability to block heat while maintaining high transparency and unobstructed vision. This is achieved through its unique composition of three layers that selectively block or emit specific wavelengths of solar heat.

The film’s outer layer radiates heat at mid-infrared wavelengths from the interior of the vehicle to the exterior, while the inner two layers reflect incoming heat at near-infrared wavelengths, reducing the total amount of heat that reaches the inside of the vehicle.

Hyundai Motor plans to use empirical data from this pilot campaign to ensure quality and enter mass production of the film in the near future.

Web Desk by — April 22, 2024 in Business
Fidya, Fitrana, and Kaffarah Rates Announced for Ramadan 2024 in Pakistan

Mufti Muneebur Rehman, a respected religious leader, has released the official amounts for Fidya, Fitrana, and Kaffarah for the upcoming Ramadan in 2024. Let’s break down what each of these means and the associated costs.

What is Fidya?

Muslims who are unable to fast during Ramadan due to legitimate reasons like health conditions, pregnancy, or travel may offer Fidya as compensation. This involves providing the equivalent of a meal for each missed day of fasting.

Fidya Rates for 2024:

  • Wheat: Rs300 per missed fast (Rs9000 for the entire month)
  • Barley: Rs600 per missed fast (Rs18,000 for the entire month)
  • Dates: Rs2,400 per missed fast (Rs72,000 for the entire month)
  • Raisins: Rs4,400 per missed fast (Rs132,000 for the entire month)

Those with greater financial means are encouraged to contribute more than the specified amounts.

What is Fitrana?

Fitrana is a charitable offering made before Eid al-Fitr (the festival marking the end of Ramadan). It is obligatory for all Muslims who can afford it.

Fitrana Rates for 2024:

  • Wheat: Rs300 per person
  • Barley: Rs600 per person
  • Dates: Rs2,400 per person
  • Raisins: Rs4,400 per person

What is Kaffarah?

Mufti Muneeb explained that Kaffarah applies when someone breaks a fast without a valid Islamic reason. This requires providing two meals to 60 individuals in need.

Kaffarah Costs:

  • Wheat Flour (2 kg): Rs18,000
  • Barley (4 kg): Rs36,000
  • Dates (4 kg): Rs144,000
  • Raisins (4 kg): Rs264,000
Afshan Ibrahim by — March 14, 2024 in Blogs
Ramadan Begins in Pakistan: Moon Sighting Marks Start of Holy Month

The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee in Pakistan has officially declared that the Ramadan moon has been sighted. This means the holy month of Ramadan will begin tomorrow, Tuesday, in Pakistan.

A series of meetings took place across Pakistan to confirm the moon sighting. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, led by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, convened in Peshawar. Additional regional committees met in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Quetta.

Pakistan joins many other Muslim-majority countries in celebrating the start of Ramadan. Several nations, including those in the Middle East and Europe, have already begun their observance.

Countries like Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, and Oman will also begin Ramadan on March 12th.

Ramadan-ul-Mubarak is a sacred time in the Islamic calendar, the ninth month marked by fasting. Muslims worldwide abstain from food and drink during daylight hours, focusing on spiritual practices such as prayer, reading the Quran, and acts of charity.

Web Desk by — March 11, 2024 in News
Pakistan Sets Zakat Threshold for Ramadan 2024

The Pakistani government has announced the “Nisab-i-Zakat” for the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. This figure sets the minimum amount of money in a bank account that requires the payment of zakat, a charitable donation.

Important Details about the Zakat

  • Minimum Threshold for Zakat: Accounts holding at least Rs. 135,179 will be subject to zakat. This threshold, known as the “Nisab-i-Zakat,” ensures that only individuals with a certain level of wealth are obligated to contribute.
  • Zakat Calculation: Banks will automatically deduct 2.5% from qualifying accounts, which typically include savings accounts, profit-sharing accounts, and similar accounts.
  • Exemption for Smaller Accounts: Accounts with balances below Rs. 135,179 are considered exempt from zakat deductions. This exemption helps ensure that individuals with limited means are not burdened by this religious obligation.
  • Zakat Collection Date: Zakat deductions will occur on the first day of Ramadan, which is expected to fall on March 12th, but the exact date will be confirmed based on the sighting of the crescent moon

Understanding Zakat

Zakat is a key principle of Islam, it’s an act of giving to help the less fortunate. During Ramadan, eligible Muslims donate a portion of their wealth to support those in need. This practice promotes both spiritual growth and social justice.

Afshan Ibrahim by — March 8, 2024 in News