TOP STORIES
- SBP doubles minimum capital requirement for local banks to Rs20 billion
Arif Habib Limited analysts expect listed banks to maintain sufficient capital buffers under the revised framework, with no material impact on dividend payouts. - SBP introduces new financing framework for small businesses and farmers
The central bank allows banks to partner with microfinance institutions and non-bank lenders to expand credit access, with financing limits of up to Rs5 million for small enterprises and Rs2 million for agricultural borrowers. - Pakistan brings cryptocurrency trading under anti-money laundering laws
The National Executive Committee approves the inclusion of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority in the Anti-Money Laundering Act framework to strengthen oversight of virtual assets. - PM Shehbaz reaffirms Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir Black Day
The prime minister calls for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute under relevant UN Security Council resolutions and reaffirms Pakistan’s support for Kashmiri self-determination.
FINANCE
- Pakistan brings cryptocurrency trading under anti-money laundering lawsThe National Executive Committee approves the inclusion of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority in the Anti-Money Laundering Act framework to strengthen oversight of virtual assets.
- Government approves key board appointments at PSO, digital wallet company
The Cabinet Committee on State-Owned Enterprises approves new independent directors for Pakistan State Oil and a sovereign virtual assets company while deferring the proposed pharmaceutical export council for further consultations. - Pakistan targets $5.5 billion IT exports and $44 billion remittancesFinance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb says structural reforms, lower energy costs, tax improvements and private investment are central to achieving sustainable, export-led economic growth.
- Pakistan, Canada conclude third round of investment treaty talks
The negotiations aim to establish a transparent investment framework, boost investor confidence and expand Canadian investment in Pakistan’s renewable energy, mining, agriculture and IT sectors.
NATIONAL
- Pakistan petrol price rises to Rs377.91, diesel hits Rs399.82
Petrol rises to Rs377.91 per litre and high-speed diesel to Rs399.82 from October 29, as global oil market volatility continues to influence domestic fuel prices. - Pakistan poverty rate rises to 28.9% in 2024-25, says Ahsan Iqbal
Planning Minister calls for higher development investment, stronger local governments and a new National Multidimensional Poverty Index to reverse rising poverty and address regional inequalities. - PM Shehbaz directs timely completion of housing projects
The prime minister calls for transparency and high construction standards in residential schemes, while also urging emergency measures to improve railway safety and services. - PM Shehbaz, Jamaat-e-Islami agree on petroleum relief committee
Government and JI will form a six-member committee to recommend expanding petrol relief for low-income households and gradually reducing the petroleum levy in the budget.
TAXATION
- FCC dismisses 1,178 petitions against Income Support Levy ruling
The Federal Constitutional Court upholds the Supreme Court’s 2021 judgment, reaffirming that review jurisdiction is limited and that constitutionally prescribed legislative procedures must be followed. - FBR to hire social specialist under World Bank-funded revenue project
The Federal Board of Revenue is seeking an experienced professional for its Islamabad headquarters to oversee social safeguards, stakeholder engagement and compliance under the Pakistan Raises Revenue Project. - FBR proposes mandatory e-filing of company financial statements
Under draft amendments to the Income Tax Rules, 2002, companies would be required to submit electronically readable financial statements through IRIS from tax year 2026, subject to specified technical requirements. - FBR opens tax collection windows on October 31 for return filers
Inland Revenue offices across Pakistan will remain open until 8pm on Saturday to facilitate tax payments ahead of the Tax Year 2026 income tax return deadline.
MONEY & BANKING
- SBP doubles minimum capital requirement for local banks to Rs20 billionArif Habib Limited analysts expect listed banks to maintain sufficient capital buffers under the revised framework, with no material impact on dividend payouts.
- SBP updates licensing rules for banks, digital banks and financial institutions
The State Bank of Pakistan has introduced a comprehensive licensing handbook covering banks, digital banks, microfinance institutions, exchange companies and payment service providers. - SBP governor says evidence-based policies are key to Pakistan’s economic stability
State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad highlights Pakistan’s macroeconomic recovery, declining inflationary pressures and the importance of fiscal discipline and long-term policymaking. - NBP reports 30% decline in earnings in 3QCY26 YoY
Higher Interest Expenses and Weak Non-Funded Income Weigh on Quarterly Profitability
TRADE AND INDUSTRY
- PM Shehbaz sets November deadline for Alibaba AI projects
Pakistan accelerates cooperation with Alibaba Group on artificial intelligence, agricultural exports, cancer detection, petroleum supply monitoring and digital access for small businesses. - SBP allows Khyber Pakhtunkhwa sugar mills to export under 200,000-tonne quota
The State Bank of Pakistan has authorised banks to process eligible sugar export transactions from KP mills following the provincial government’s endorsement of their quotas. - Motiwala urges urgent review of China FTA amid rising imports
BMG chairman calls for better market access, value-added agricultural exports and a blue economy roadmap to strengthen Pakistan’s trade potential. - Pakistan sets 120-day roadmap for shrimp farming and exportsA prime minister-led initiative will develop a coordinated strategy to expand shrimp production, strengthen value addition and improve export competitiveness under a wider 24-month implementation and review process.
AUTOMOTIVE
- FAW Bestune Pony goes bigger with five-door design and 328 km range
The updated electric hatchback arrives in China with improved rear-seat space, a larger boot, two battery options, and a starting price of 44,900 yuan. - Indus Motor posts Rs7.4 billion quarterly profit, beats expectations
Toyota’s local partner in Pakistan reports a 10% year-on-year increase in quarterly earnings, supported by higher sales volumes, and announces a cash dividend of Rs56 per share. - BYD to unveil Yangwang Altior, luxury sedan ready to challenge Rolls-Royce
The upcoming flagship sedan will rival the Rolls-Royce Ghost with a 5.5-meter body, premium design, advanced technology and an expected price of around $300,000. - Air Link announces Air EV electric bike launch date in Pakistan, booking details revealed
Air Link Communications plans to launch its Air EV electric bike brand on November 4, 2026, with deliveries expected to begin within approximately one week and local manufacturing targeted to reach 95%.
IT & TELECOM
- Apple iPhone Duo price in Pakistan reaches Rs1.39 million
Mercantile lists the Apple iPhone Duo from Rs899,999 for the 256GB variant, with higher-storage models priced at up to Rs1.39 million. - Samsung Galaxy Buds On launch in US at $229, Europe next
Samsung’s first clip-on earbuds offer AI-powered voice features, up to 38 hours of battery life and a design aimed at keeping users aware of their surroundings. - Sony unveils LYTIA 720 50MP Sensor with improved low-light photography
Sony has introduced the LYTIA 720, a 50-megapixel mobile image sensor featuring enhanced low-light performance, a 100dB dynamic range and support for 4K HDR video recording at 60 frames per second. - Apple faces iPhone Duo durability backlash over display failuresApple reportedly acknowledges inner-screen defects affecting a small number of foldable iPhones and directs affected customers to AppleCare for replacements.