Lifestyle

Hyundai Pakistan is celebrating Independence Day with an exclusive offer that makes its popular hybrid vehicles more accessible. The promotion, valid until August 31, 2025, allows customers to purchase the Elantra Hybrid, Tucson Hybrid FWD, and Santa Fe Hybrid through easy monthly installments with a low down payment. This limited-time deal also includes one year of free comprehensive insurance.

Dubai-based digital bank Mashreq is set to complete a $100 million expansion in Pakistan by the end of 2025, focusing on digitizing workers’ remittances, supporting SMEs with a dedicated platform, and promoting financial literacy for youth. The bank, currently in a pilot phase, is leveraging its global experience and a digital-only model to fill the gap in Pakistan’s untapped online banking market.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has mandated a two-day maximum turnaround time for new bank account openings and pushed for widespread digital payment acceptance. This bold move aims to significantly boost financial inclusion and enhance customer experience across Pakistan, building on recent successes that saw the country’s financial inclusion rate reach 60% in 2023. Banks are now required to simplify processes, offer digital account opening, and ensure merchants are equipped with digital payment solutions like Raast QR and POS terminals.

Car buyers in Pakistan are facing steeper prices as Honda Atlas Cars Limited (HACL) has implemented significant increases on various models, effective July 1. This surge, ranging from Rs. 47,000 to a staggering Rs. 201,000, is primarily attributed to the new New Energy Vehicle (NEV) levy introduced by the government in the federal budget for FY26. While HACL has previously absorbed cost pressures from rupee devaluation and rising freight, the NEV levy is now being passed directly to consumers, impacting popular choices like the Honda City, BR-V, and Civic.

Pakistani citizens are bracing for yet another economic squeeze as the federal government announces a significant surge in petroleum product prices, effective July 1. This latest adjustment sees petrol costing an additional Rs. 8.36 per litre and high-speed diesel Rs. 10.39 per litre, following recommendations driven by fluctuating international oil markets. This move comes on the heels of a previous hike just two weeks prior. Adding to the burden, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has also notified a substantial increase in gas prices for domestic and various consumer categories, with some household tariffs rising by up to 50%. These continuous price revisions reflect global energy trends and local economic realities, placing considerable financial pressure on inflation-hit households across the nation.

Pakistan’s Real Estate Soars: Faisal Jewel Clinches International Awards, Redefining Urban Excellence Excerpt Faisal Jewel, a visionary high-rise project by Faisal Town, has elevated Pakistan’s standing on the global real estate stage by securing two prestigious International Property Awards 2025. This remarkable achievement recognizes the project’s exceptional design, groundbreaking innovation, and commitment to sustainable urban development, solidifying its status as a benchmark for modern high-rise living and a proud symbol of Pakistan’s evolving architectural prowess.

Pakistan is rapidly embracing a digital economy, with a staggering 89% of all retail transactions now processed through digital channels in the third quarter of FY25. This impressive shift, highlighted by the State Bank of Pakistan’s latest review, is largely fueled by the exponential growth of mobile banking, e-money, and branchless banking wallets. From everyday in-store purchases to booming e-commerce, digital payments are transforming how Pakistanis transact, promoting greater financial inclusion and efficiency across the nation.

Recent US military actions against Iranian nuclear sites have sent ripples of concern across global financial markets. Investors are closely monitoring the unfolding situation, bracing for potential oil price spikes and a rush to safe-haven assets. While Middle Eastern markets initially remained calm, the heightened uncertainty surrounding Iran’s response, particularly regarding the critical Strait of Hormuz, could significantly impact inflation and global economic stability

In a significant victory for consumers and the environment, a National Assembly panel has unanimously rejected the proposed 18% sales tax on solar panel imports. Furthermore, the government has confirmed it will withdraw the controversial tax increase on hybrid vehicles. This pivotal decision rolls back two highly debated budget measures, offering relief and renewed optimism for sustainable solutions in Pakistan.