Introduction: A Swiss parliamentary investigation into the collapse of Credit Suisse has caused concern among historians as it plans to keep its files confidential for 50 years, far beyond the typical 30-year period. The extraordinary level of secrecy raises questions about the investigation’s significance and the public’s right to access information. Unprecedented Secrecy: The parliamentary committee conducting the investigation has …
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PM Shehbaz Sharif Urges Drastic Reforms
Introduction: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan addressed the recent electricity tariff hike and emphasized the necessity of drastic structural and economic reforms to benefit from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan program. In a meeting with prominent businessmen and industrialists, the PM stressed the importance of national unity and sacrifices to initiate the much-needed reforms. Electricity Tariff Hike and …
Read More »Twitter's Cash Flow Remains Negative
Introduction: Elon Musk has revealed that Twitter’s cash flow remains negative, primarily attributed to a nearly 50% plunge in advertising revenue and the burden of a heavy debt load. Despite aggressive cost-cutting measures, the social media giant is yet to reach positive cash flow, falling short of Musk’s earlier expectation in March. This development raises concerns about Twitter’s financial recovery, …
Read More »Federal Government Reduces Petroleum Prices
Introduction: In response to the recent decline in international oil prices, the federal government has taken a commendable step by announcing a reduction in petroleum product prices. This move aims to provide relief to consumers who have been grappling with rising fuel costs. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar made the announcement during a press conference, highlighting the significant cuts in the …
Read More »Understanding the Difference Between Saving and Investing
Introduction: Saving and investing are two essential financial strategies that individuals can employ to secure their future and build wealth. While both involve setting aside money, they differ in their purpose, time frame, and risk profile. Understanding the distinction between saving and investing is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This article explores the differences between saving and investing, highlighting …
Read More »Budget Constraints Hinder Operations of Special Investment Facilitation Council in Pakistan
Introduction: The Ministry of Finance’s delay in allocating the budget of Rs400 million to the newly established Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in Pakistan has raised concerns about the council’s ability to fulfill its mandate. Despite being a civil-military led body aimed at removing obstacles in the way of foreign investment, the lack of resources has hindered the SIFC’s operational …
Read More »Here's Why Microfinance Banks offer Higher Rates of Return than Commercial Banks
Introduction: Microfinance banks and commercial banks both play important roles in the financial sector, but one noticeable difference is the interest rates they offer on saving accounts. Microfinance banks tend to provide higher rates of return compared to commercial banks, and this article aims to shed light on the reasons behind this disparity. 1. Mission and Target Audience: Microfinance banks …
Read More »Pakistani Currency Improves as IMF Approves $3 Billion Loan Program
In a positive turn of events, the Pakistani currency has witnessed a strengthening trend against the US dollar in the wake of the IMF executive board’s approval of a $3 billion loan program for Pakistan. The currency improved by Rs2.14 to Rs275.34 against the greenback in the interbank market on Thursday morning. Early reports indicated a significant surge, with the …
Read More »Standard Chartered Predicts Bitcoin's Price Surge: $50,000 in 2023 and $120,000 by 2024
Introduction: Standard Chartered, a prominent international bank, has made bold predictions regarding the value of Bitcoin, the leading cryptocurrency. According to Reuters, the bank anticipates a surge in Bitcoin’s price, with projections reaching $50,000 in 2023 and an impressive $120,000 by the end of 2024. Bitcoin’s Potential Growth: Standard Chartered initially published a forecast of $100,000 for Bitcoin by the …
Read More »IMF Approves $3 Billion Bailout Program to Support Pakistan's Economic Stabilization
The International Monetary Fund’s board has granted approval for a $3 billion bailout program to support Pakistan’s ailing economy. This decision comes following a staff-level agreement reached between Pakistan and the IMF last month, ensuring crucial funding for the cash-starved nation. The approved bailout program includes a 9-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) of SDR2,250 million (equivalent to around $3 billion or …
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