News

BOP delivers 155pc profit growth in Q1 2026

The Bank of Punjab (BOP), one of Pakistan’s leading public sector commercial banks on Monday announced exceptional financial results for Q1 2026, reflecting strong growth momentum, sound business performance, and an expanding role in Pakistan’s banking sector. The Board of Directors reviewed and approved the unaudited financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2026. Exceptional Growth

Policy rate hiked 1pc on ME conflict

In line with market expectations, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has raised the policy rate by 100 basis points to 11.50 percent, to address risks to the macroeconomic outlook stemming from the prolonged conflict in the Middle East. The MPC has raised benchmark interest rate for the first time in nearly three years, delivering a larger-than-expected hike

Gold edges down with US-Iran talks, central bank decisions in focus

Gold prices eased on Tuesday, as investors watched for the impact of the Middle East conflict and stalled US-Iran peace talks on the interest rate outlook of key central banks that meet this week. Spot gold was down 0.2% at $4,670.89 per ounce, as of 0350 GMT. US gold futures for June delivery fell 0.2% to $4,684.70. US President Donald Trump is unhappy with the latest Iranian proposal on re

Oil prices rise as no end to Iran war stand-off seems in sight

Oil prices extended their gains on Tuesday as efforts to end the ‌U.S.-Iran war appear stalled, with the crucial Strait of Hormuz water way still mainly shut, keeping energy supplies from the key Middle East producing region out of the reach of global buyers. US President Donald Trump is unhappy ​with the latest Iranian proposal aimed at ending the war, a US official said on Monday. ​Iranian so

Green Sukuks: Islamic banking’s role in financing a sustainable Pakistan

Climate change is no longer a distant concern—it is a pressing reality that is reshaping global finance. As governments, institutions, and investors seek sustainable solutions, Islamic banking is emerging as a natural ally of the green financing movement. Its core principles—risk-sharing, ethical investment, and real economic activity—resonate closely with environmental, social, and governance (ES