Category: Business

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

realme, one of the world’s leading smartphone brands, has announced
the launch of its latest smartphones, the realme 12 and realme 12+ 5G
in Pakistan. These devices are set to revolutionize the market with
their advanced features and competitive pricing, posing a formidable
challenge to existing competitors.

The realme number series has been appreciated by users globally since
its debut, and after a two-year hiatus, it has returned to Pakistan.
The series has been perceived as premium in the Pakistani market, with
a focus on advanced photography features and now on excellent chipset
capabilities.

The realme 12+ 5G is the crown jewel of the series and instantly
becomes one of the most powerful smartphones in the market today. The
device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 5G Chipset, which
features an 8-core 64-bit architecture, including 2 ARM® Cortex-A78
@2.6GHz and 6 ARM® Cortex-A55 @2.0GHz cores. Paired with a Mali-G68
GPU, the realme 12+ 5G ensures powerful performance while maintaining
ultra-low power consumption.

realme 12+ 5G comes in two different versions, 12GB RAM+256GB ROM and
8GB RAM+256GB ROM. These versions have scored over 580,000 (highest in
its price bracket) in the AnTuTu Benchmark establishing that this
device is capable of handling more than the average user requires.

 Besides chipset power and benchmark scores, the realme 12+ 5G
includes performance dimensions like heat control, software
optimization, smoothness, gaming capability, and charge speed,
delivering better performance against all competitors in the segment.

In terms of its design, the realme 12+ 5G is inspired by renowned
French watchmaker Ollivier Savéo, known for his collaborations with
luxury Swiss watch brands including Rolex, Roger Dolby, Piaget,
Breitling, and Quentin, featuring a polished sunburst dial design,
premium vegan leather, and PVD polished edges, offering an ultra-light
and slim form factor at only 7.87mm thickness and 190g weight.

On the other hand, the realme 12’s exceptional performance is anchored
by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chipset, a formidable force in the
segment. As a leader in mobile technology, Qualcomm is known for its
high-performance chipsets, and the Snapdragon 685 is no exception.
This powerhouse chipset delivers a comprehensive performance boost to
realme 12, enhancing every aspect of the user experience, especially
when compared to other devices in the same price range utilizing the
same Snapdragon 685 processor. The realme 12 is available with 8GB of
RAM and 256GB of internal storage ensuring ample space for all your
apps, photos, and videos.

Both the realme 12 and realme 12+ 5G feature a 50MP Sony LYT-600
primary camera with OIS, designed to capture clear shots from any
distance. The 2X In-sensor zoom and Cinematic 2X Portrait Mode allow
for flexible shooting with DSLR-like bokeh. SuperOIS technology
ensures stable video and image capturing, making it ideal for
fast-paced scenarios.

Both devices sport a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution,
offering vibrant colors and smooth visuals. With a 120Hz refresh rate,
these displays ensure a seamless viewing experience, and the realme
12+ 5G features 4096 levels of brightness adjustment and a peak
brightness of 2000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in direct
sunlight.

Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, both the realme 12 and realme 12+ 5G
support 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging, allowing the devices to charge to
50% within 19 minutes and 100% within 48 minutes.

The realme 12 will be available at PKR 59,999, while the realme 12+ 5G
is priced at PKR 74,999. realme 12 will be available in Pioneer Green
and Skyline Blue, while the realme 12+ 5G is available in Pioneer
Green and Navigator Beige. These colors exude elegance and a sense of
quiet confidence and adventure. Both devices will be available for
purchase starting the 1st of July 2024.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Mastercard, a global technology company in
the payments industry, has partnered with ABHI, an embedded finance
platform, to introduce the Mastercard-enabled Salary Advance Cards for
the first time in Pakistan.

ABHI users will be able to order this card via the ABHI app, 24/7 call
center, or through the HR departments of their associated companies,
enabling them to access earned salaries conveniently. This
collaboration will enhance the accessibility of international and
domestic online payments for ABHI’s Earned Wage Access (EWA) users.

At the core of this partnership is a joint commitment to empower
individuals and drive positive transformation in Pakistan’s financial
landscape, marking a milestone in the development of payment
infrastructure. By leveraging Mastercard’s technology, ABHI will
enrich its products and services to ensure safe and quick transactions
for its users. As the two companies unite to advance financial
wellness across the region, this partnership signifies a leap toward
fostering a secure digital economy.

“While the digital economy is revolutionizing the financial landscape
of Pakistan, we at ABHI are dedicated to empowering individuals and
businesses through our innovative products. By introducing Salary
Cards powered with Mastercard’s technology, we’re initiating a new era
of seamless transactions for working individuals across the region.
With Mastercard-powered ABHI Salary Cards, our users will gain the
ability to conduct both local and international transactions directly
from their Earned Wage Access. The partnership with Mastercard
embodies our shared vision for a more inclusive financial future,
where everyone has access to convenient and secure financial
solutions,” said Ali Ladhubhai, Co-Founder and COO of ABHI.

“At Mastercard, we pride ourselves on leveraging our global technology
and expertise to co-create market-relevant, innovative, and
customer-centric payment solutions in close collaboration with key
local ecosystem players. We are delighted to partner with ABHI, an
exciting FinTech, to launch Salary Advance Cards that will connect
their customers to our global payments network. Together, we are
working towards a common goal of ensuring that more businesses, more
SMEs and more people than ever have access to the benefits and
opportunities offered by digital payments as we deliver on our
commitment of including one billion people to the digital economy,”
said Arslan Khan, Country Manager, Pakistan at Mastercard.

Founded in 2021, ABHI is promoting financial inclusion across the
region, serving Pakistan, UAE, and KSA with its innovative
credit-bridging products. These offerings, which include Earned Wage
Access, Payroll Solutions, and SME Financing, are designed to empower
businesses and their employees financially. ABHI has earned
recognition as one of the Future 100 companies in the UAE and was also
the first fintech firm in the MENAP region to join the World Economic
Forum’s Technology Pioneers community in 2023.

With its global expertise in the payments industry, Mastercard is
utilizing secure data and networks to unlock new opportunities for
individuals, financial institutions, governments, and businesses. The
partnership between Mastercard and ABHI aims to strengthen the digital
payment infrastructure, facilitate future transaction expansion, and
promote financial inclusivity.

realme Unveils Shaheen Afridi as Brand Ambassador, Teases Major Announcement on June 26.

In an exciting move, realme has announced the appointment of Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s star fast bowler, as its new brand ambassador. Known for his outstanding performances on the cricket field, Afridi’s dynamic and energetic persona aligns perfectly with realme’s brand ethos of innovation and youthful spirit.

Adding to the excitement, realme has teased a major announcement scheduled for June 26, 2024. While details remain under wraps, speculation is rife that it could be related to the highly anticipated realme GT 6 Pro or possibly a new addition to the 12 series, such as the realme 12 or the realme 12 Pro+. This announcement follows the recent unveiling of the realme GT 6 Pro in Italy, showcasing realme’s commitment to innovation and its quest to revolutionize the smartphone industry.

realme is on a roll, having recently launched the realme C63 in Pakistan. The successful launch of the C63 indicates that realme is increasing the frequency of its device launches, cementing Pakistan as a primary market for the company. This strategy underscores realme’s dedication to bringing advanced technology to Pakistani consumers, reinforcing its position as a leading smartphone brand in the region.

Stay tuned for further details as realme continues to push the boundaries of technology and innovation, bringing cutting-edge devices to the global market. However, whatever the news is, this collaboration with Shaheen Afridi is expected to bring a fresh wave of excitement among realme fans and cricket enthusiasts alike.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

S&P Global, a provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets is proud to celebrate its 19th anniversary of operations in Pakistan this month. Since its establishment in 2005, S&P Global Pakistan has been at the forefront of providing essential intelligence that enables governments, businesses, and individuals to unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and accelerate progress for the world.

Over the past 19 years, S&P Global Pakistan has built a strong reputation in “Powering Global Markets” and delivering impact for its people, customers, and communities. On this momentous occasion, Mujeeb Zahur, Managing Director of S&P Global Pakistan, said, “S&P Global Pakistan’s continuous growth is a testament to our shared commitment to Accelerate Progress and live by our values of Discovery, Partnership and Integrity. On this special day, we celebrate every team member in Pakistan who strives to bring our purpose and values to life and helps us build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive organization.”

As S&P Global Pakistan enters its 20th year, the company will continue to focus on its five strategic pillars: Customer at the Core; Grow and Innovate; Expand the potential of Data & technology; Lead and Inspire and Execute and Deliver. These pillars will continue to guide the company in helping the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA) also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab) has successfully received and opened the financial and technical bids for the Celestia Tower which will be constructed in Pakistan’s premier and largest IT hub, CBD NSIT IT City. The NSIT Celestia Tower project attracted bids from several prominent construction companies, including Habib Construction, Maksons, EDCO King Concrete and Hasnat Builders. These companies submitted their sealed bids comprising both financial and technical components ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process. The bid opening ceremony was conducted transparently with all participating bidders present to witness the proceedings. Key officials from CBD Punjab attended the bid opening, including Executive Director Technical Director, Construction Director Procurement and Director Finance. Their presence underscored the project’s importance and CBD Punjab’s commitment to maintaining transparency and integrity throughout the bidding process. The bid opening marks the first step in a thorough evaluation process. Each bid will undergo a detailed examination, assessing technical qualifications and financial viability meticulously. The receipt of bid securities a critical component of the bidding process, will also be verified. Following this detailed review the contract for the Celestia Tower will be formally awarded to the most qualified bidder. An official announcement regarding the contract award will be made in due course ensuring all stakeholders are informed. Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab expressed confidence in the abilities of all participating companies. He reiterated that the contract award process will adhere strictly to all applicable rules and regulations emphasizing the commitment to transparency and fairness. We trust the capabilities of all the companies that have submitted bids. The selection process will be conducted with the utmost transparency, following all established guidelines and standards he stated. The Celestia Tower is envisioned as a 19-story state-of-the-art building, poised to become a landmark in the region. The project is expected to be completed within 14 months and will involve an estimated investment of 7 billion PKR. Once completed, the Celestia Tower will not only enhance the architectural landscape of the area but also contribute significantly to the local economy by creating jobs and attracting business investments. CBD Punjab’s commitment to this project reflects its broader mission to drive economic growth and urban development in Punjab. The Celestia Tower is part of the NSIT City project which aims to establish a hub for technology and innovation. By fostering such developments, CBD Punjab aims to position the region as a competitive player in the global market, attracting both national and international businesses.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

SparkTank by Beaconhouse, Pakistan’s first business incubator for 10-19 year-olds, celebrated the graduation of its inaugural cohort at an event titled ‘The SparkTank. Showcase’ held at the Ramada Hotel Gulberg, Lahore.

The SparkTank Showcase featured five promising startups developed by eight students over a five-month incubation period from September 2023 to February 2024. The graduating startups include Go Clean, Pak Maweshi, Bitty Bop’s Perfumery, Takhti.pk, and BreatheEasy.

The event featured an exhibition and presentations by the graduating students where they introduced their idea and the startups to an audience including investors, experts from the startup industry, as well as students, parents, and educationists. A keynote speech by Chief Sustainability Officer at Al Futtaim Group, Ellora-Julie Parekh, highlighted the importance of promoting entrepreneurship from an early age to equip the youth with the skills and mindset necessary to tackle challenges. Education technology entrepreneur and CEO of Build Something Different, Chris Geary, spoke on ‘Tech Education: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Innovators’ .

A panel discussion titled ‘Navigating Early Stage Funding’ explored the various opportunities for obtaining initial financing for startups. It provided practical advice on overcoming funding challenges and planning for long-term financial sustainability. Panellists included CEO & Founder, CIRCLE, Sadaffe Abid; Founder & General Partner, Zayn Venture Capital, Faisal Aftab; Co-Founder & CEO, Smartlane and Co-Founder, Rent It, Fatin Tariq Gondal; and Managing Director, Endeavor Pakistan, Shehryar Hydri. The discussion was moderated by Co-Founder of Out-Class & Taraki, Ali Nomani. Speaking at the event, CEO Beaconhouse School System and SparkTank, Kasim Kasuri said, “We are incredibly proud of our first cohort of young entrepreneurs. Their dedication and innovation have been truly inspiring, and we are excited to see the impact they will go on to make. SparkTank is committed to supporting innovation among the youth, nurturing their talent while promoting creative thinking and business acumen.”

Launched in 2023, SparkTank provides aspiring student entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to turn their ideas into successful businesses. The first initiative of its kind in Pakistan, SparkTank offers an extensive range of services to support students at every stage of the business development process – from conducting market research to developing a prototype, and ultimately to launching and scaling their businesses – all at zero cost. Students are guided by a dedicated team of experienced mentors, educators, and professionals throughout the incubation process.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

In a significant development for Pakistan’s footwear industry, The Association of Guangdong Shoes Manufacturers, TAGSM of China has expressed its intention to invest billions of rupees in Pakistan’s shoe industry.   Mr Suilong Liu, Chairman AGSM visited Lahore alongwith 10 Chinese Delegates from 3 – 8 June 2024 . PFMA host the Chinese delegation, arranged their B2B meetings with Pakistani footwear industry and government officials.

The Chinese delegation visited Pakistan from June 3 to June 8, 2024 and witnessed various shoe-making factories where they have had B2B meetings with the Pakistani counterparts. In April this year, a Pakistan delegation headwd by Mansoor Ehsan Sheikh, Chairman PFMA also visited China and met with the leading shoe-makers there.

Mr. Suilong Liu, marking a new chapter in bilateral trade relations and potential economic growth. During his visit, Mr. Liu had various meetings with Mr Mansoor Ehsan Sheikh and finally signed a MOU at the Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT) jn the presence of Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Minister of Trade & Investment Punjab, the both Chairmen highlighted the shared enthusiasm for strengthening ties between the two countries’ footwear sectors.

Minister for Trade & Investment, Mr. Shafay Hussain, praised PFMA for their pivotal role in attracting investment in Pakistan. “The success of this visit exemplifies our commitment to fostering international trade relations and attracting foreign investment,” said Mr. Hussain. He further acknowledged the role of PFMA and those of Mr. Ahmed Fawad Farooq, whose dedicated efforts have been instrumental in attracting investors to Pakistan’s shoe industry.

Mr. Liu’s visit underscored the immense potential of Pakistan’s shoe market. “Pakistan represents a burgeoning market for footwear with vast opportunities for growth and development,” stated Mr. Liu. He expressed confidence in the country’s economic prospects and reiterated his commitment to investing substantially in Pakistan’s shoe manufacturing sector. The Chinese delegates plan to invest in 1st phase Rs. 2 bilion, and will increase their investment quantum to Rs. 20 billion in the 2nd phase, reflecting the long-term vision and belief in the Pakistani market,” he added. The collaboration between TAGSM and PFMA is expected to bring state-of-the-art technology, modern manufacturing techniques, innovative designs to Pakistan’s footwear industry and development of supply chain materials market. This partnership aims not only to boost local production capabilities but also to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Pakistani footwear in global markets.

Chairman of PFMA Mr. Mansoor Ehsan, welcomed the investment and highlighted its potential impact on the local economy. “This investment will create numerous job opportunities and contribute to the overall economic development of Pakistan. We look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership with TAGSM,” he remarked.

This landmark investment signals a promising future for Pakistan’s footwear industry, paving the way for increased exports and solidifying the country’s position in the international market. The collaborative efforts of PBIT, PFMA and key figures like Mr. Ahmed Fawad Farooq and Minister Shafay Hussain have been crucial in making this vision a reality.