Trade 💼 Finance 💰 Outlook 🔍

Another Week, Another Pulse!

It’s been a week of mixed signals. Despite the government’s push to bring in foreign money, investment from overseas is still slow. In fact, foreign direct investment dropped by 26% in the first four months of the fiscal year. At the same time, the current account deficit jumped over 255%, mostly because we’re importing more and exporting less. Business sentiment also took a hit, with confidence falling by up to 12%. And the REER — a measure of how expensive the rupee is compared to other currencies — climbed to 103.95, which usually makes exporting harder.

But there were a few bright spots too. Foreign companies were finally able to send more of their earnings out of Pakistan, with profit repatriation rising 39% from last year. The FBR also approved a notable change: raising the reward ceiling for Inland Revenue officials from 18 to 24 salaries for outstanding service — a move that may stir debate but aims to motivate performance.

Outside the numbers, the IMF raised fresh concerns about Pakistan’s governance and anti-corruption systems, saying inconsistent enforcement has weakened public trust. On the tech front, all eyes are on the upcoming 5G launch, but the telecom regulator is pushing the government to cut taxes on key equipment before the rollout begins. 

Some positive long-term infrastructure news also came through: the Asian Development Bank approved a $330 million loan to help strengthen Pakistan’s power transmission network and move cheaper hydropower to key demand centres. And lastly, the government has decided to postpone its $250 million Panda Bond issuance, which was expected in December.

Here’s your five-minute recap of everything you need to know.

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STOCK MARKET:

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) wrapped up the week on a quiet note, with the KSE-100 index edging up by just 168 points to settle at 162,103. The slight uptick was driven by growing confidence in the improving large-scale manufacturing sector. Although the index moved mostly sideways, investor activity picked up — average daily trading volumes jumped 37% compared to last week, signaling renewed interest beneath the surface.

The Organic Meat Company Begins Direct Meat Exports to Carrefour Qatar

The Organic Meat Company (TOMCL) has started exporting directly to Carrefour Qatar, following its earlier entry into Carrefour UAE. The first shipment has already been dispatched after the company met Carrefour’s strict operational, food safety, and hygiene standards. This step allows TOMCL to grow its presence in high-value GCC markets, expand export volumes, and place more of its premium products on international retail shelves, strengthening its brand visibility in the region.

Treet Corp Approves Plan to Invest Up to Rs. 187 Million in Loads Ltd’s Upcoming Rights Issue

Treet Corporation (TREET) has approved a plan to invest up to Rs. 187 million in the upcoming rights issue of its associated company, Loads Limited. The board also signaled that it may acquire additional shares if available, including those offered by other shareholders or through the stock exchange, subject to approval. To move ahead, Treet will hold an extraordinary general meeting to get shareholder authorization for the investment, with details of the meeting to be announced soon. Treet is looking to strengthen its stake in Loads Limited, potentially increasing its ownership and influence in the company while supporting its expansion or funding needs.

Barkat Frisian Agro Sets Up UAE Subsidiary to Enter GCC Market

Barkat Frisian Agro (BFAGRO) has established a wholly owned subsidiary in the UAE, named Barkat Frisian Agro Global L.L.C FZ, as part of its push to expand into the Gulf region. Based in Dubai’s Meydan Freezone, the new entity will focus on increasing exports, boosting overseas sales, and strengthening the company’s presence in GCC markets. The move is part of BFAGRO’s long-term plan to grow the brand internationally and create lasting value for shareholders.

ECONOMY:

Big industry output expands 2.7pc in September

Pakistan’s Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) sector grew 2.69% year-on-year in September, hinting at a gradual recovery in industrial production. After a sluggish 0.54% growth in August caused by recent flooding, the sector bounced back, recording 2.05% month-on-month growth, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Strong performance in the automobile and cement sectors helped the LSM post a 4.08% increase in the July–September quarter, offering a glimmer of hope amid broader economic challenges. While LSM contributes around 8% to GDP, it had contracted 0.74% in FY25, falling short of the 3.5% growth target.

Fertiliser firms must pay Rs450b before getting gas: ECC

The Gas Infrastructure Development Cess (GIDC) is back in focus as the ECC urges fertiliser companies to pay their outstanding dues, part of over Rs450 billion owed for pipeline projects. Fertiliser firms had collected GIDC from farmers but delayed payments, later securing court stay orders. The ECC reviewed gas allocations from Mari fields and sought assurances that urea prices won’t rise, while the Finance Division raised questions on handling surplus RLNG and ensuring companies meet their commitments.

FUNDS IN VIEW:

Who’s Driving Mutual Fund Growth? A Look at the Investor Mix! 👀

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