Author: Sarmad Ahsan
Sarmad Ahsan
I am Sarmad Ahsan, a business analyst and an adept entrepreneur whose ten-year odyssey in the realm of business writing and reporting has been marked by a steadfast dedication to precision and an astute attention to detail. My professional voyage has been singularly focused on distilling complex business concepts into compelling narratives that resonate with and enrapture a diverse audience. My commitment to the craft has honed my ability to deliver stories that not only inform but also persuade and engage, solidifying my reputation as a trusted source in the business community. As readers delve into my work, they encounter a fusion of expertise and eloquence, a signature of the insightful and impactful content I am known for.
Are you ready to embark on a journey to master the art of share trading in Pakistan? The Pakistan Stock Exchange presents a world of opportunities for both residents and non-residents looking to invest in the country’s thriving market. Understanding the ins and outs of share trading is the first step towards making informed investment decisions and maximizing your returns. The Pakistan Stock Exchange, with its dynamic and evolving nature, offers a wealth of investment possibilities for those looking to grow their wealth. From setting up your investment account to navigating the process as a non-resident Pakistani, there are various…
The British pound climbs, buoyed by wage growth figures that surpassed expectations, influencing the Bank of England’s rate cut outlook. Story Snapshots: The pound reaches a near six-month high against the euro. UK wage growth slowed less than expected, potentially affecting BoE rate cut decisions. The unemployment rate dropped to 3.8%, defying forecasts. Markets are pricing in fewer BoE rate cuts compared to the ECB and Federal Reserve. How have recent UK wage growth figures impacted the pound and investor expectations for Bank of England rate cuts? UK wage growth exceeding forecasts has strengthened the pound and led investors to…
The U.S. Senate delivers a substantial aid package, bolstering support for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, amidst uncertainty in the House. Story Snapshots: The Senate passed a $95.34 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The legislation received bipartisan support, with a 70-29 vote. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer underscored the bill’s national security significance. Opposition from some Republicans centered on aid talks excluding U.S. border policy changes. The bill’s fate in the Republican-controlled House is uncertain. What has been the U.S. Senate’s action regarding foreign aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan? The Democratic-led U.S. Senate passed a $95.34 billion…
Allied Bank records a staggering 95% profit surge, signaling robust financial growth for 2023. Story Snapshots: Allied Bank (ABL) posts a 95% increase in profit-after-tax for 2023. Earnings per share have nearly doubled compared to the previous year. A final cash dividend of Rs4 per share has been announced. Net interest income surged by over 69% due to higher interest rates. Fee and commission income, as well as foreign exchange income, saw significant jumps. Non-interest expenses and tax payments also saw substantial increases. What growth did Allied Bank report in its 2023 financial results? Allied Bank (ABL) announced a 95%…
What impact did US inflation data and crude price increases have on Gulf stock markets? The recent US inflation data, indicating a potential interest rate cut, combined with rising crude prices, have contributed to gains in most Gulf stock markets. Gulf stock markets largely finished on a high note on Sunday, buoyed by the latest US inflation data and an uptick in crude oil prices. The optimistic financial pulse comes as investors recalibrated their expectations for the Federal Reserve’s interest rate trajectory. Key Takeaways: Most Gulf stock markets ended higher, anticipating a US rate cut. Revised US inflation data for…
Is China’s yuan poised for stability amidst turbulent markets? Investors and policymakers worldwide have turned their watchful eyes toward China as the yuan steadies against the dollar, indicating a newfound resolve by Chinese authorities to prop up the faltering share markets. This move comes amid a backdrop of tumultuous trading and uncertain global economic forecasts, laying the groundwork for a nuanced understanding of China’s current financial strategy. In a bid to restore investor confidence, Chinese regulators have intensified their clampdown on short selling and announced expanded stock buying plans by state investors. These decisive actions aim to thaw the frost…
In a landmark defense agreement, South Korea is set to bolster Saudi Arabia’s missile defense capabilities with a multi-billion-dollar deal that is turning heads in the international defense sector. The deal, valued at a robust $3.2 billion, sees the Gulf nation acquiring advanced interception systems from South Korean defense manufacturer LIG Nex1. This strategic move by Saudi Arabia aims to strengthen its defense infrastructure amid rising regional tensions. LIG Nex1’s surface-to-air missile system, the Cheongung M-SAM II, stands as the centerpiece of this transaction. The system, also known as the ‘Iron Hawk II,’ is a mid-range, medium-altitude missile defense platform…
In a striking display of financial stewardship, MCB Bank Limited, a cornerstone in Pakistan’s banking landscape, has shattered its own records by notching its highest-ever yearly profit. The remarkable achievement is primarily attributed to a significant swell in interest-based income, underscoring the bank’s acumen in navigating the complex fiscal terrain. As reported in a consolidated statement to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, MCB Bank’s profit after tax soared to an impressive Rs65.27 billion in 2023. This figure marks an over 89% uptick from Rs34.45 billion earned in the preceding year, painting a picture of robust growth and dynamic financial management. Behind…
Is there a new titan in town in the world of banking? JPMorgan Chase has just thrown down the gauntlet, announcing an audacious plan to widen its already formidable U.S. footprint. As some financial institutions are scaling back, Chase is bucking the trend, proposing to add more than 500 new branches across the nation by 2027. This move signals a strong belief in the enduring value of brick-and-mortar banking alongside digital services, despite a growing industry focus on online platforms. JPMorgan’s decision reveals a strategic targeting of key growth markets. By selecting cities like Boston, Charlotte, and Minneapolis, areas where…
Could the future of India’s energy security hinge on a new 20-year deal with Qatar? In a landmark agreement with global implications, QatarEnergy has pledged to provide India’s Petronet with a substantial 7.5 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually, bolstering the South Asian giant’s energy mix and fortifying a long-standing partnership. This pivotal arrangement not only commemorates the 20th anniversary of Qatar’s inaugural LNG shipment to India but also promises to cement and expand an already robust energy relationship. As announced by Qatar’s Energy Minister and CEO of QatarEnergy, Saad al-Kaabi, the first LNG deliveries under this agreement…