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Arshad Nadeem Eyes Gold at Asian Athletics Championship After Olympic Glory

Khashif Sarfraz
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Arshad Nadeem Eyes Gold at Asian Athletics Championship After Olympic Glory

Pakistan’s Olympic hero, Arshad Nadeem, is all set to make his international return later this month at the Asian Athletics Championship 2025 in South Korea, aiming to add another gold medal to his growing collection.

After earning Pakistan’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024 with a monumental javelin throw of 92.97m, Nadeem has undergone a focused five-month training program under the guidance of Coach Salman Iqbal Butt at Punjab Stadium, Lahore.

Nadeem’s Next Big Target: May 31 Javelin Final

The 28-year-old javelin ace will compete in the final on May 31, marking his first international appearance since his Olympic triumph.

“This is the first major event after the Olympics, and I’ve been working hard for the past five months,” Nadeem shared.
“I do not compete with anyone else — my competition is with Arshad Nadeem himself.”

Known for his disciplined focus and explosive athleticism, Nadeem has already bagged four gold medals in major global events and isn’t slowing down.

“My goal is to win gold in events where I haven’t yet — the World Championship, Asian Championship, Asian Games, and Diamond Leagues,” he added.
“Eventually, my full focus will shift to the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.”

Coach Confident in Peak Form

Coach Salman Iqbal Butt echoed Nadeem’s confidence:

“The results from the past five to six months of training have been encouraging. We don’t look at events as big or small — every competition matters. Pressure is part of the job, and it often brings out the best.”

Looking Ahead: World Championship and Diamond League

Following the Asian Championship, Nadeem is expected to participate in two to three international competitions before the World Championship in September as part of his preparation roadmap for Los Angeles 2028.

With national pride and international expectations on his shoulders, Pakistan’s javelin star continues to inspire millions as he chases new records and golden moments on the world stage.

PSL 10 Tickets Go on Sale from May 15: Here’s the Full Match Schedule

Khashif Sarfraz
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PSL 10 Tickets Go on Sale from May 15: Here’s the Full Match Schedule

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced that tickets for the remaining matches of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 will go on sale starting Wednesday, May 15.

Tickets can be purchased online and at designated outlets of the PCB’s official partner courier company. While pricing details haven’t been updated, rates are expected to remain the same as previously announced, making it easier for fans to plan their PSL experience.

PSL 10 Resumes on May 17

The league will resume with a clash between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi on May 17 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. A total of eight matches will be played, including the group-stage games and the playoff rounds.

Rawalpindi is set to host four matches, including a double-header on May 18:

  • Afternoon: Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars

  • Evening: Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings

The city’s last game will be on May 19, featuring Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators.

Playoffs in Lahore

Following the Rawalpindi leg, the tournament will move to the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which will host all playoff matches:

  • May 21: Qualifier

  • May 22: Eliminator 1

  • May 23: Eliminator 2

  • May 25: Final

All evening matches begin at 7:30 PM PST, while the only afternoon fixture (May 18) kicks off at 3:30 PM.

HBL PSL 10 Remaining Fixtures:

📅 May 17: Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi
📅 May 18 (Afternoon): Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars
📅 May 18 (Evening): Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings
📅 May 19: Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators
📅 May 21: Qualifier
📅 May 22: Eliminator 1
📅 May 23: Eliminator 2
🏆 May 25: Final

PCB Ticket Advisory

The PCB has advised fans to purchase tickets only through official platforms to avoid counterfeit sales or fraudulent charges. Ticketing links and outlet locations are expected to be shared on the PCB’s official website and social media pages.

With high-stakes matches ahead and fan-favorite players returning, the resumed PSL 10 promises thrilling action and packed stadiums. Don’t miss out—secure your tickets early!

Alex Hales Returns to Islamabad United as HBL PSL 10 Resumes

Khashif Sarfraz
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Alex Hales Returns to Islamabad United as HBL PSL 10 Resumes

Alex Hales has officially rejoined Islamabad United for the resumed stages of HBL PSL 10, expressing his unwavering support for the team and fans in a heartfelt statement.

The Pakistan Super League was abruptly suspended earlier this year due to escalating regional tensions, including airspace closures and heightened security concerns. After weeks of uncertainty, the tournament is finally set to resume on May 17, reigniting excitement among cricket enthusiasts.

Hales, a seasoned PSL campaigner and fan favorite in Islamabad’s red jersey, reaffirmed his commitment despite the logistical upheaval.

“Islamabad United has always been very close to my heart. They were the first PSL team I played for in Pakistan, and the support I’ve received from the fans and the franchise has been incredible throughout,” said Hales.

The England batter revealed he had to reshuffle prior commitments after the new PSL dates were confirmed but didn’t hesitate to make room for the league’s resumption.

“When they signed me back in April, I was really looking forward to joining up with the squad for the latter stages of the tournament. With the change in PSL dates, I’ve had to reshuffle a few commitments—but I’m absolutely thrilled to be back in Pakistan playing in Red.”

Islamabad United, led by Shadab Khan, remains firmly in contention for the PSL 10 title, and Hales’ return is expected to strengthen their top order as they prepare for crucial matches ahead.

The team is scheduled to face the Karachi Kings in Rawalpindi before heading into the playoff stages in Lahore.

“Hopefully, I can contribute and help the team push for another title,” Hales added, signaling his readiness to perform and reconnect with the passionate Islamabad United fanbase.

As PSL action returns to packed stadiums, fans will be eager to see whether Hales can help United reclaim their championship form in what promises to be an electrifying finale to the season.

Pakistani Rupee Stable Amid Global Dollar Weakness and Oil Rally

Khashif Sarfraz
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Pakistani Rupee Stable Amid Global Dollar Weakness and Oil Rally

The Pakistani rupee remained largely stable against the US dollar during early trading hours on Wednesday, maintaining its position amid global market movements and easing trade tensions.

At 10:30 AM, the rupee was trading at PKR 281.68 against the US dollar in the inter-bank market, marking a minor loss of just Re0.01 compared to Tuesday’s close of PKR 281.67.

Global Context: Dollar Weakens After US CPI Data

Internationally, the US dollar held steady following a sharp 0.8% decline on Tuesday, the most significant single-day drop in over three weeks. This came after US inflation data showed slower-than-expected growth, reinforcing the likelihood of Federal Reserve rate cuts in the near future.

The US Dollar Index, which tracks the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, stood flat at 100.94, stabilizing after a volatile start to the week. On Monday, the index had spiked by 1% amid hopes that easing Sino-US trade tensions would help stave off a global recession.

Trade Agreements Improve Sentiment

Global trade sentiment has improved in recent days. The US and China reached a 90-day tariff truce, and Washington also struck a trade agreement with Britain. Additionally, US President Donald Trump indicated progress toward potential trade deals with India, Japan, and South Korea, signaling a de-escalation of broader trade conflicts.

While US tariffs may drive a slight uptick in domestic inflation due to rising import costs, the overall outlook for global trade is now more optimistic.

Oil Prices Hold Near Highs

Oil prices, a key indicator for currency markets in oil-importing countries like Pakistan, remained close to two-week highs on Wednesday.

  • Brent crude traded at $66.53 per barrel, down only $0.10

  • WTI crude slipped $0.07 to $63.60

Both benchmarks had surged over 2.5% in the previous session, supported by the weakening dollar and positive trade news.

Outlook for the Rupee

The PKR’s stability reflects broader market confidence, helped by controlled import payments, stronger forex reserves, and recent financial discipline by authorities. However, future moves will likely depend on global commodity prices, especially oil, and upcoming macroeconomic data from the US.

Iron Ore Prices Surge to 5-Week High on US-China Tariff Truce

Khashif Sarfraz
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Iron Ore Prices Surge to 5-Week High on US-China Tariff Truce

Iron ore futures climbed to their highest levels in more than five weeks on Wednesday, fueled by fresh optimism over a US-China trade agreement and temporary tariff reductions that signal easing global tensions.

The most-traded September iron ore contract on China’s Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) rose by 1.81% to 732.5 yuan ($101.51) per metric ton as of 0215 GMT, after hitting a session high of 736.5 yuan — the strongest since April 7.

Similarly, on the Singapore Exchange, benchmark June iron ore was up 1.6% at $101.1 a ton, reaching a peak of $101.45, the highest since April 4.

Trade Truce Boosts Market Sentiment

The bullish momentum came after China announced a 90-day reduction of tariffs on US goods to 10%, starting Wednesday. In response, the US lowered its “de minimis” tariff for low-value Chinese imports to as low as 30%.

US President Donald Trump added to the momentum by expressing willingness to directly engage with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the final terms of the deal.

These developments reignited hopes for a lasting resolution to the long-standing trade conflict, improving the global economic outlook and boosting demand expectations for key commodities like iron ore.

Supply Disruption Adds to Rally

Further pushing prices upward was news that Shougang Hierro Peru, a Chinese-owned mining firm, suspended operations after part of its dispatch infrastructure collapsed at its shipping port. Repairs are expected to take four to five months, forcing the steelmaker to increase spot market purchases to maintain production levels.

Steel Inputs Also Rise

Other steelmaking raw materials joined the rally:

  • Coking coal rose 0.97%

  • Coke was up 0.86%

On the Shanghai Futures Exchange, steel benchmarks posted gains:

  • Rebar: +0.65%

  • Hot-rolled coil: +0.74%

  • Wire rod and stainless steel: +0.93%

With demand improving and supply constraints mounting, iron ore and related steel inputs are likely to remain firm in the near term, barring any unforeseen geopolitical developments.

Indian Rupee Set to Open Higher on Weaker Dollar, Soft US Inflation

Khashif Sarfraz
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Indian Rupee Set to Open Higher on Weaker Dollar, Soft US Inflation

The Indian rupee is poised to open stronger on Wednesday, bolstered by a weaker US dollar following softer-than-expected inflation data and signs that the significant one-off outflow seen in the previous session is unlikely to repeat.

The 1-month non-deliverable forward (NDF) suggests an opening range of 85.00–85.04 to the US dollar, compared to the previous close of 85.33. The more favorable outlook reflects improving sentiment around the Indian currency.

Rupee Reverses on Flow-Driven Volatility

On Tuesday, the rupee experienced an intraday reversal, initially appreciating to 84.60, before weakening to nearly 85.50. The move was primarily attributed to dollar purchases by a large state-run bank, likely associated with a one-off outflow, followed by foreign bank demand.

However, a currency trader at a Mumbai-based bank noted that this reversal was flow-driven and unlikely to reoccur. “With the dollar broadly on the backfoot, the rupee should be able to sustain its opening upmove,” the trader said, emphasizing that the bias on the rupee remains positive amid current volatility.

US Dollar Pressured by Soft Inflation Data

The US dollar lost ground after the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April came in at 0.2%, slightly below the 0.3% forecast. This weaker inflation print has reignited rate cut expectations from the Federal Reserve.

The softer reading, combined with recent US trade de-escalations, suggests that inflationary pressures may be easing. In a research note, ING Bank stated:

“We had been looking for the Fed to wait until September before cutting and that still holds.”

However, the outlook remains data-dependent, and the Fed is likely to proceed cautiously given broader macroeconomic developments.

Rupee Outlook: Positive Bias Amid External Relief

With the US dollar losing steam and expectations of further rate cuts later in the year, the rupee stands to benefit in the short term. Market participants believe that unless fresh external shocks or unexpected outflows arise, the Indian rupee could maintain a gradual strengthening trend.

Moreover, investor focus will now shift to domestic macro data and external flows to gauge how long the rupee can sustain its upward trajectory.

Aussie and Kiwi Dollar Strengthen as US-China Tariff Truce Boosts Global Sentiment

Khashif Sarfraz
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Aussie and Kiwi Dollar Strengthen as US-China Tariff Truce Boosts Global Sentiment

The Australian and New Zealand dollars enjoyed robust gains on Wednesday, as a significant de-escalation in US-China tariff tensions brightened the global economic outlook and sparked a rebound in commodity prices.

A pullback in the US dollar further fueled the positive momentum for both currencies.

The Aussie dollar edged up 0.1% to $0.6480, following a 1.6% jump overnight that saw it move above its 200-day moving average of $0.6454. This rally brought it near a five-month high of $0.6514, which was hit last week.

Similarly, the New Zealand dollar (kiwi) also gained 0.1%, reaching $0.5942. It rallied 1.3% overnight to break back above its 200-day moving average of $0.5882, although it remains some distance from its six-month peak of $0.6029.

US-China Trade Truce Sparks Optimism

The US-China trade truce reached on Monday has significantly reduced the risk of a global recession, contributing to a brighter economic outlook. As a result, commodity prices have rebounded strongly, with iron ore reaching its highest level in over two weeks and copper climbing to six-week highs.

The easing of tariff tensions has also improved the outlook for interest rates in the US. Expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts have been scaled back, with futures now pricing in just two quarter-point rate cuts this year. This change in expectations has provided further support for commodity-linked currencies like the Aussie and Kiwi.

Impact on the US Dollar and Commodity Prices

The US dollar’s pullback played in favor of the Australian and New Zealand dollars. According to Mansoor Mohi-uddin, Chief Economist at Bank of Singapore, “The USD has rallied sharply, but its long-term outlook remains bearish as global investors turn cautious after the Trump administration’s economic, foreign policy, and trade shocks.”

Meanwhile, commodity prices also showed strong gains, with iron ore and copper prices rising sharply. These commodities are heavily linked to the economic outlook of Australia and New Zealand, which explains the concurrent rise in their currencies.

Australian Economic Data and Interest Rate Outlook

Data showing that Australian wages increased 0.9% in the first quarter of the year has provided some additional support for the Aussie dollar. However, government pay rises for care workers largely drove this wage increase, suggesting that the uptick may be temporary.

Market expectations for interest rates remain firmly on the downside, with swaps fully pricing in a rate cut from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) next week. In fact, a total easing of 80 basis points is expected by the end of the year.

Sean Langcake, head of macroeconomic forecasting at Oxford Economics Australia, stated, “Much of the strength in wages in Q1 has been driven by policy changes and will be temporary.”

Looking Ahead

The Aussie and Kiwi continue to benefit from the US-China trade truce and rebound in commodity prices, but challenges remain, especially with rate cuts on the horizon for both economies. As the US dollar faces longer-term pressure, the focus will shift to how global trade tensions, commodity prices, and economic policies impact the outlook for the Australian and New Zealand currencies moving forward.

Oil Prices Retreat Amid US Inventory Build and Trade Optimism

Khashif Sarfraz
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Oil Prices Retreat Amid US Inventory Build and Trade Optimism

Oil prices retreated on Wednesday after a sharp rally in the previous session, as traders eyed an anticipated jump in US crude inventories. Despite the pullback, prices remained near two-week highs, underpinned by optimism following the US-China trade agreement to temporarily lower their reciprocal tariffs.

As of 0400 GMT, Brent crude futures had fallen 39 cents or 0.6% to $66.24 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped 36 cents, or 0.6%, to $63.31.

Both benchmarks had gained more than 2.5% in the prior session.

US-China Trade Deal Boosts Market Sentiment

The agreement between the world’s two largest economies on Monday to pause their trade war for at least 90 days gave a boost to market sentiment. The United States slashed tariffs on Chinese goods to 30% from 145%, while China reduced duties on US imports to 10% from 125%.

Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova, noted that this economic pause could “invigorate demand amidst cautious optimism.” However, she cautioned that US oil inventory expectations tempered the overall positive sentiment.

US Oil Inventory Build Weighs on Prices

While the market had enjoyed a rally, expectations of a sharp increase in US oil inventories capped further gains. The American Petroleum Institute (API) reported that crude stocks rose by 4.3 million barrels during the week ending May 9, signaling that demand may still be facing significant challenges.

The official inventory data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) was due on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. EDT (1430 GMT), adding to market uncertainty.

Sachdeva added, “This sharp contrast to last week’s substantial draw signals that the demand side is still grappling with significant challenges, leaving market watchers on edge.”

Geopolitical Developments and Supply Outlook

Meanwhile, geopolitical factors continue to influence oil prices. US President Donald Trump’s Gulf trip began on Tuesday, with an appearance at an investment forum in Riyadh. Trump announced that the US would lift long-standing sanctions on Syria and secured a $600 billion pledge from Saudi Arabia in investments.

In addition, Rystad Energy’s Mukesh Sahdev highlighted that preventing oil price spikes during the summer travel season would be a key focus of Trump’s trip. The US could also use lower prices to buy more crude for its Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

The US sanctions on Iranian oil continue to add uncertainty to the market. On Tuesday, fresh sanctions were imposed on about 20 companies accused of helping Iran send oil to China, further complicating the supply situation.

Looking Ahead

As oil prices remain at the mercy of supply-demand dynamics, geopolitical developments, and ongoing trade negotiations, investors are closely watching for any signals of demand recovery or supply disruptions. The global oil market’s next twist may well depend on these evolving factors, especially in relation to US-Iran tensions, Russia’s actions, and Venezuelan oil production.

KSE-100 Nears 119,000 as Market Optimism Continues Amid IMF Talks and Ceasefire Gains

Khashif Sarfraz
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KSE-100 Nears 119,000 as Market Optimism Continues Amid IMF Talks and Ceasefire Gains

Positivity continued at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index climbing over 400 points in early intra-day trading. At 11:05am, the index stood at 118,981.43, marking a gain of 405.55 points or 0.34%.

The bullish sentiment followed Tuesday’s rally, where the KSE-100 Index surged nearly 1,300 points, closing at 118,575.88, fueled by a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.

Sector-Wise Performance

Investor interest remained high in cement, commercial banks, power generation, and refinery sectors. Key index movers trading in the green included:

  • HUBCO (Hub Power Company)

  • NRL (National Refinery)

  • MARI (Mari Petroleum)

  • MEBL (Meezan Bank)

  • NBP (National Bank of Pakistan)

  • UBL (United Bank Limited)

IMF Talks Add to Market Optimism

Adding to the positive sentiment, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) team began discussions with Pakistani authorities today, with a focus on the upcoming 2025–26 federal budget. Key discussion areas include:

  • Tax broadening measures

  • Energy sector reforms

  • State-owned enterprise restructuring

Investors are optimistic that successful talks with the IMF could unlock future financial support and enhance fiscal credibility.

Global Market Overview

Globally, Asian stocks edged higher, while the US dollar showed weakness after softer-than-expected US inflation data, raising hopes of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later this year.

  • MSCI’s Asia-Pacific index (excluding Japan) rose 0.9%.

  • Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index also gained, buoyed by strong earnings from Jd.com.

  • Focus now shifts to upcoming earnings from Tencent and Alibaba.

Meanwhile, US and European equity futures indicated a cautious retreat, reflecting ongoing market wariness despite a temporary pause in US-China trade tensions.

“As US President Donald Trump’s global trade war appears to hit pause, markets remain uncertain but less volatile,” — Analysts note.

Conclusion

With strong local buying, geopolitical improvements, and favorable global cues, the KSE-100 Index is testing new highs, bringing renewed optimism to investors. However, all eyes remain on the outcome of IMF negotiations and global macroeconomic indicators in the coming weeks.

Gold Prices Rebound in Pakistan as Global Markets React to US Inflation Data

Khashif Sarfraz
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0
Gold Prices Rebound in Pakistan as Global Markets React to US Inflation Data

Gold prices in Pakistan surged on Tuesday, recovering sharply from Monday’s steep decline, amid a global wave of bargain-hunting and a softer-than-expected US inflation report.

According to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association (APSGJA), the price of gold rose by Rs3,700 per tola, reaching Rs344,200 in the local market. Likewise, the price of 10 grams of gold climbed Rs3,173, settling at Rs295,096. This comes after a dramatic Rs10,400 drop per tola on Monday, when prices had fallen to Rs340,500.

Global Gold Market Trends

Internationally, spot gold rose 0.3% to $3,243.99 an ounce, recovering from Monday’s low of $3,207.30. Meanwhile, US gold futures increased 0.7% to $3,249.50, fueled by the inflation data and optimism around US-China trade talks.

“We had a big correction in gold on Monday due to news of a deal between the US and China,”
— Bart Melek, Head of Commodity Strategies, TD Securities

Despite the announcement, tariffs remain high—30% on Chinese imports, down from 145%, and 10% on US imports into China, down from 125%. Melek noted that such steep tariffs are still “quite negative for the economy,” keeping investors cautious.

Why Is Gold Still Strong in 2025?

Gold has consistently broken record highs in 2025 due to:

  • US President Donald Trump’s tariff policies

  • Slowing global economic growth

  • Strong central bank gold purchases

  • Geopolitical tensions

  • Rising demand in gold-backed ETFs

Expert Commentary: Market Technicals

Adnan Agar, Director at Interactive Commodities, highlighted that gold touched a high of $3,265 and a low of $3,215 on the Pakistan Mercantile Exchange during Tuesday’s session. He explained that gold’s rise was initially driven by better-than-expected US inflation data.

“If gold breaks the $3,270–$3,275 resistance zone, we could see it surge towards $3,300 or higher. But a drop below $3,200 could signal a decline towards $3,180,”
— Adnan Agar, Interactive Commodities

According to Agar, gold’s future trajectory will be dictated by key upcoming economic indicators, including inflation figures, central bank policies, and geopolitical developments.

Currency Update: Pakistani Rupee Slightly Weaker

Meanwhile, the Pakistani rupee depreciated slightly against the US dollar in the interbank market. It closed at Rs281.67, down 10 paisa from Monday’s Rs281.57.

Globally, the US dollar gained strength, backed by optimism over the US-China trade negotiations.

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