Bank Alfalah to buy back 200m shares

Bank Alfalah Ltd said on Thursday it’s going to buy up to 200 million of its own shares at the price prevailing on the stock exchange. The targeted shares constitute about 11.25 per cent of the total shareholding and 32.15pc of the free-float. The purpose of the buyback is the cancellation of shares, which will lead to an increase in the earnings per share. The purchase period will last from Dec 14 to June 2, 2023, or the date on which the purchase is complete. The bank will use its distributable profits to buy back its shares. The exercise will also have a positive impact on the bank’s break-up value and return on equity. Emirates Group returns to profit In a clear sign that the aviation industry is getting back on its feet after the Covid-19 pandemic, the Emirates Group has reported half-yearly net profit of $1.2 billion, or AED 4.2bn, for its financial year 2022-23.