IMF's Executive Board approves $1.3bn financing for Pakistan's reform programme, flags heightened risks from Middle East war

Updated 09 May, 2026

"The decision reflects Pakistan’s continued progress on difficult but necessary economic reforms," says Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.

Inflation surges 15.16pc on costly fuel

Business 09 May, 2026

Short-term inflation remains elevated due to surge in the prices of onions, mutton, beef and powdered milk.

Mideast war taking a toll on Pakistan’s ‘wedding economy’

National Updated 09 May, 2026

Marriage halls increase rates or avoid long-term pricing commitments due to economic uncertainty; govt austerity measures have led to stricter enforcement of wedding regulations.

Equities snap four-session winning streak

Business 09 May, 2026

Investors resort to panic-selling amid renewed tensions in the Middle East and rising oil prices.

Wheat procurement hits roadblock in Punjab

Business 09 May, 2026

Govt aims to procure 3m tonnes of wheat through private companies; out of 11, nine firms fail amid financing and pricing disputes.

Oil jumps after renewed fighting

Business 09 May, 2026

Brent crude futures at $101.47 a barrel, up 1.41pc; US West Texas Interme­diate futures at $95.71 a barrel, up 0.95pc.

Govt hikes petrol by Rs14.92 per litre, high-speed diesel by Rs15

Updated 09 May, 2026

The new prices will be effective from May 9, Petroleum Division says.

Govt places Public Private Partnership Authority under Privatisation Division for ‘better coordination’

08 May, 2026

The Cabinet Committee on Privatisation will be further strengthened, while P3A will also focus on the implementation and execution of projects, says the official handout.

IMF warns of ‘inevitable’ AI cyber threats

Business 08 May, 2026

Analysis suggests that extreme cyber-incident losses could trigger funding strains, raise solvency concerns, and disrupt broader markets.