Private sector lending hits 11-year low

[ KARACHI: Pakistan’s banking sector witnessed a sharp contraction in lending to the private sector during the first half of 2025, as advances fell by over 15%, driving the Advances-to-Deposit Ratio (ADR) to its lowest level in more than a decade and raising concerns over weakening private sector credit and long-term economic growth. Although the … Read more

Hadiqa Kiani steps up flood relief efforts

hadiqa kiani steps up flood relief efforts

Singer and philanthropist Hadiqa Kiani has once again placed herself at the centre of humanitarian relief, this time for the millions affected by the worst floods to hit Punjab in recent history. Known for her active role in welfare work, the celebrated artist has been on the ground in flood-stricken districts for days, combining direct … Read more

Ex-Premier League referee Coote charged with making indecent child image

LONDON: Former Premier League referee David Coote has been charged with making an indecent image of a child. Coote, 43, was sacked from his officiating role in December after a video showing him making derogatory remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in 2020 came to light. The charge of making an indecent image of … Read more

ADB, AIIB back $250m Panda bonds

ISLAMABAD: Two multilateral development banks have agreed to provide $285 million in guarantees to help Islamabad raise $250 million in debt through the issuance of Panda bonds, as the country’s poor credit rating remains a hurdle in entering international debt markets without a protective umbrella. Government sources told The Express Tribune that the boards of … Read more

Aurangzeb cites progress on SOE reforms, China ties, and US tariff talks

[ ISLAMABAD: A delegation of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), led by CEO Javed Kureishi and Chairperson Dr Zeelaf Munir, called on Federal Finance and Revenue Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb at the Finance Division on Wednesday. According to an official statement, the minister welcomed the delegation and briefed them on the state of the economy. … Read more