Jazz further strengthens market leadership, continues to drive digital ecosystem

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Pakistan’s number one 4G operator and the largest internet and broadband service provider, Jazz has further strengthened its market leadership and continues to drive the digital ecosystem in Pakistan. In the 4th quarter of 2020, Jazz’s overall subscriber base grew by 9.8% year-over-year (YoY) reaching 66.4 million, 4G customer base grew by 61% reaching 25 million, whereas the overall data users grew by 13.4% YoY reaching 44 million. During Q4 2020, Jazz invested PKR 12.3 billion, 4G network investment being the principal focus; enabling the company to take its 4G population coverage to 59%, with the data usage being 4.3 GB per user, a YoY increase of 68.9%. Jazz’s self-care app, Jazz World, has crossed 7.8 million monthly active users, cementing its position as the largest telecom app in Pakistan.

Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz, said, “Our performance this quarter is reflective of the trust our customers have in us. Growth in 4G users and rising data demands show that Pakistan is digital-ready; however, we need to do more in connecting the underserved to fast, reliable 4G and equip them with the digital tools necessary for a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem.” During the reporting period, the number of monthly active JazzCash mobile wallets increased to 12.2 million, a YoY increase of 67%. Overall, JazzCash processed transactions amounting to PKR 2.27 trillion over the past 12 months. Jazz’s content services also enjoyed further growth, with Jazz TV’s monthly active user base rising to 1.2 million. 

PCB is disappointed

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) A player and an official of one of the teams taking part in the HBL Pakistan Super League 2021 have been placed in a three-day quarantine after they came into contact with a person outside the bio-secure bubble on otherday.

The two individuals will now require two negative tests during the three-day quarantine period before they can re-enter the bio-secure bubble in accordance with the re-entry protocols.

“The PCB is disappointed that two members of one of the sides showed carelessness and violated the bio-secure bubble protocols by coming into a contact with a person who was not part of the bubble.

“As reiterated previously, the health and safety of all individuals associated with HBL Pakistan Super League 6 is of paramount importance to the PCB and the event. All players, player support personnel, match officials and family members are once again reminded to diligently follow the PCB Covid-19 Protocols as the PCB will not allow anyone to affect the integrity and credibility of the tournament,” the PCB said.

Separately, a player from another franchise team who had shown symptoms and was in isolation, has tested positive. He will now remain in quarantine for 10 days and will require two negative tests in order to integrate again with the side in accordance with the applicable re-entry protocols.

The PCB will not make any further comment on this matter.

Islamabad United & The Citizens Foundation partner for PSL6!

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) The Citizens Foundation (TCF), a leading non-profit educating the less privileged children of Pakistan and Islamabad United (ISLU), a Pakistani professional Twenty20 franchise cricket team that competes in Pakistan Super League (PSL) and two time PSL Champions have partnered again this year for the upcoming PSL6.

ISLU has supported TCF’s work in the past and has helped in raising support for the cause through its platform. Under the collaboration, the ISLU team will continue to work alongside TCF to bring positive change in Pakistan by bringing more children off the streets and into schools and helping them become agents of positive change.

Regarding the partnership, Ali Naqvi, owner of Islamabad United said, “We have always believed that our duty and responsibility to Pakistan goes beyond our immediate work. We’ve taken pride in being a socially conscious and progressive organization, from our support of WWF-Pakistan to our continued association with TCF, we have always believed in presenting and promoting the best that Pakistan has to offer, while still using the platform of Pakistan cricket, especially the PSL, to achieve those goals. TCF is one of the most admirable organizations in the country, the work they’ve done, the lives they’ve changed are obvious for all. Our players have visited their schools over the past few years and this has only emboldened our partnership. Their belief in youth empowerment and education is something that we share, thus this partnership is a natural fit for us, and we feel happy to continue our association with TCF.”

Asaad Ayub Ahmad, CEO of The Citizens Foundation commented, “We are happy to continue our association with Islamabad United for PSL. Over the past few years our partnership has been a fruitful one: Islamabad United players have visited our various campuses in Lahore and Rawalpindi, inspired our students and raised awareness for the cause of education in Pakistan. Our aim is to remove the barriers of class and privilege to make citizens of Pakistan agents of change, and no one encapsulates that more than our national cricketers. We are glad that we are continuing our partnership with Islamabad United.

Why choose online jewelry stores for artificial jewelry

Have you ever noticed while walking across a street, a glittery jewelry shop display always catches your eye. Sometimes it’s only a single piece of jewelry that grabs eyeballs, and it becomes irresistible to avoid looking at it. However, when you simply type in the word “online jewelry shopping”, you end up getting thousands of jewelry stores that provide options tailored to your needs whether it is filtering results according to your budget or style. All of this happens in a matter of some clicks.

Though some people prefer selecting their jewelry as they prefer trying on a piece before the actual purchase, however, imagine not having you size available at that point can be heart-breaking. Although there are various reasons why shopping artificial jewelry online is better comparatively to the traditional shopping, some reasons are mentioned below:

Better comfort:

In a fast-paced world, convenience is everybody’s priority. It can be tiresome visiting numerous shops and looking out for that particular style of jewelry you desire. In the process of traditional shopping, there is a lot of time consumption involve. On the contrary, shopping jewelry online is extremely convenient. There are various websites that sell jewelry, blumoon.pk is one of them where you will not be limited to the opening times, you can purchase as and when is convenient to you from the comfort of your home.

More options:

Another problem with traditional shopping of artificial jewelry is the limited number of options that may be available. You may not get what you want as the stocks may be limited and ultimately end up placing an order for custom-made product which gets delivered after a few days. Furthermore, the physical shops can indeed hold a limited number of things, and there are regularly numerous strategies influencing the accessibility of items. Online stores enable you to discover numerous items that otherwise wouldn’t be available in an actual store.

Cost-effective:

Shopping at online jewelry stores in indeed exciting. You can look for exclusive items, sort and filter results by value, colors, and sizes etc. You can shop as per your budget without having a sales assistant feeding you with a well-versed sales speech to convince you for going over budget. Though they may be getting their sales commission at the end, but you may end up getting not you would otherwise purchase. With online shopping, you can make independent decisions without any influence. Not only that, there are various deals, discounts, discount coupons that can aid in price reduction. An additional advantage with purchasing online is that you can view the reviews provided by others, or in some cases, customers share the pictures of how does an actual jewelry piece looks like.

In depth documentation:

Last but not the least, online jewelry stores are better documented. They have all the required details available for a client to view. For instance, if your payment method is online, these stores will provide certified payment methods. Similarly, there will always be an “about us” section, where you can read through an online retailer’s history, vision and their story. In case of products like diamonds, certifications are also provided. Furthermore, for products like rings, bracelets, anklets, there will always be size chart shared. Hence, it becomes easier to determine how authentic a jewelry provider really is.

Bayer’s Berocca joins hands with the Quetta Gladiators as official energy partner for HBL PSL 6

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Bayer’s leading Consumer Health brand, vitamin and mineral supplement Berocca, has signed on to become the Official Energy Partner for the Quetta Gladiators in the upcoming HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 6.  

A ceremony to mark the partnership was held on February 17, 2021, at a local hotel, at which members from the leadership teams of the Quetta Gladiators and Bayer Pakistan were present.    

Nadeem Omer, the owner of the Quetta Gladiator franchise was happy to announce that 2021 also marked the second year of partnership between Berocca and the Quetta Gladiators.  

“We are very pleased to be reuniting with this great brand which has helped boost the energy and fitness of our players. Quetta Gladiators is a star team, constantly on the quest for excellence, and our partnership with Berocca reflects this mindset. Energy and fitness are one of our top priorities, and that’s what Berocca stands for. It is a great fit for what we anticipate being a terrific HBL PSL season ahead. By partnering with brands such as Berocca, we are not only increasing our brand equity but also ensuring that strong and recognizable brands are part of the biggest sports event in Pakistan,” said Nadeem Omer, the owner of the Quetta Gladiators franchise.   

To mark the occasion, Dr. Imran Ahmad Khan, CEO and Marketing Director of Bayer Pakistan said, “Bayer Pakistan is really looking forward to the HBL PSL 6 and is proud to be the first life science company in Pakistan investing in the great sport of cricket. Berocca is one of the world’s leading vitamin and mineral supplements and the Quetta Gladiators are some of our best athletes – it’s an excellent fit.”  

“Bayer’s Consumer Health division is going to continue maintaining its focus on supporting sports in Pakistan to promote healthy, active lifestyles among our youth,” added Mirza Khalid Naseem Baig, Country Head of Bayer Pakistan’s Consumer Health division. “This is not only part of our business strategy, but also ties in with Bayer’s global vision ‘Health for All, Hunger for None’.” He added that Berocca reduces tiredness and fatigue by helping improve alertness, concentration, and physical stamina.  

Season 6 of the much-awaited HBL PSL is set to start from February 20, 2021, and the Quetta Gladiators are set to play the inaugural match against Karachi Kings at the National Stadium in Karachi.  

EBM Celebrates Cricket in Gwadar with Sooper Hai Pakistan Cup

Gwadar (Muhammad Yasir) In one of the most scenic stadiums of the world, Gwadar Cricket Ground, EBM in partnership with Aaj Entertainment hosted Sooper Hai Pakistan Cup, a vibrant event with a 20 over celebrity exhibition match between Showbiz Sharks Vs Gwadar Dolphins. The idea of this celebrity match was conceived by Mr. Fakhr-e-Alam, the very popular singer, songwriter and TV host who was inspired by the sheer beauty of the venue, the Gwadar Cricket Ground.

EBM – Makers of Peek Freans, are a pioneer in the industry since its inception. They have over the years cemented their position of being a market leader by taking steps to continuously raise the bar. With this Sooper Hai Pakistan Cup, EBM wants to exhibit the future of Pakistan that is Gwadar.

Showbiz Sharks captained by Waseem Khan have emerged as champions of the Sooper Hai Pakistan Cup after defeating Gwadar Dolphins who were led by Zulfikar (Zulfi) Bukhari with a margin of 12 runs at the Gwadar Cricket Ground. The two teams had some prominent names of the industry with Sowbiz Sharks led by Waseem Khan CEO PCB, Fakhr Alam, Faysal Qureishi, Ali Zafar, Saleem Sheikh, Aijaz Aslam, Shezad Roy, Sami Khan, Kamran Jeelani, Salman Saeed, Ali Safina and Noman Habib while Gwadar Dolphins featured dignitaries including Zulfi Bukhari, Ali Zaidi along with Maj General Aamer Najam GOC 44 Infantry Division at Gwadar.

The closing ceremony held after the nail-biting cricket match in which Chief Guest Dr. Christian Turner – British High Commission of Pakistan along with Humair Kandhari, Senior Brand Manager Sooper- EBM, Shahab Zuberi from Aaj Entertainment and Mr. Fakhr-e-Alam awarded the trophy to the winning team.

Speaking about the event, Dr. Zeelaf  Munir – Managing Director & CEO of EBM said,” We always love to be a part of such exciting events which not just promote sports and healthy activities among Pakistanis but also demonstrate the beauty and openness of Pakistan and its cities. Gwadar is the future of Pakistan, a stunningly picturesque economic gateway that connects Pakistan to the world. We wanted to host the first ever live broadcasted cricket match in this picturesque venue of Gwadar Cricket Ground from the very day we saw photos of it. I want to thank Aaj Entertainment for organizing this event and above all Mr. Fakhr-e-Alam who fulfilled the desire of many to play as well as watch this historic cricket match here in this stadium.”

Sooper Hai Pakistan Cup was an enthusiastic effort by the Nation’s Favorite Peek Freans Sooper and Aaj Entertainment to shed a brighter light on the land of Gwadar for the nation through a sport we all love, cricket.

Golootlo and BankIslami Partner for PayPak Loyalty Program

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Decagon Pakistan Pvt Ltd. (Golootlo) has entered into an agreement with BankIslami, which will allow the bank’s PayPak debit card customers to seamlessly access Golootlo discounts nationwide as part of the PayPak Loyalty Program.

Customers with PayPak EMV Debit Cards issued by BankIslami will now be able to swipe their cards and avail a range of discounts at more than 18,000 merchants. Through these transactions, customers will also be entered into lucky draws and get a chance to win numerous prizes including PSL Tickets, cars, mobile phones and much more.

Chairing the agreement signing was Mr. Fahad Mehmood – CEO, Decagon, and Mr. Bilal Fiaz – Group Head Consumer Banking, BankIslami Pakistan. Furthermore, the signing was also overseen by Mr. Amir Ali – President & CEO, BankIslami Pakistan, Mr. Majid Bashir – Chairman, Decagon, Mr. Najeeb Agrawala – CEO, 1LINK and Mr. Moin Khan-Brand Ambassador, BankIslami Pakistan.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Fahad Mehmood said, “Golootlo is Pakistan’s largest merchant and consumer engagement platform with discounts at over 18,000 merchants across various categories. We’re committed to growing the Golootlo ecosystem and this partnership with BankIslami, one of Pakistan’s top banks is a major milestone in that regard. Thanks to this strategic alliance, BankIslami customers will be able to take advantage of Golootlo’s discount offerings directly through their debit cards.

Speaking at the occasion, BankIslami’s President and CEO, Syed Amir Ali, stated; “With this partnership, BankIslami focuses on offering customers the most lucrative, Shariah-compliant services through digitally-enabled tools in consumer banking to increase value propositions.”

Mr.  Najeeb Agrawalla, CEO 1LINK commented “PayPak is one of the catalyst forces that is playing an instrumental role in furthering the agenda of digitizing the domestic payments landscape of Pakistan and PayPak Loyalty Program is launched to enhance the value offering to cardholders to make it their card of choice. We congratulate BankIslami on this partnership and are confident that their customers will enjoy the benefits being offered.”

Golootlo has been dedicated to forming alliances with all major banks and Telco’s of Pakistan in an effort to catalyze Pakistan’s digital financial revolution. And with the support of BankIslami, one of the nation’s leading Islamic banks with 340+ branches in more than 123 cities, Golootlo is one step closer towards that goal.

PayPro receives USAID SMEA Innovation Grant “Digital Payment Disruption for SME’s in Pakistan

PayPro, one of Pakistan’s fastest growing fintech companies which focuses on B2B and B2C payments, was awarded a PKR 7.473 million Innovation Grant by the USAID Small and Medium Enterprise Activity (SMEA) to digitize the MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium sized Enterprises) who’re looking to collect payments through digital channels. The grant will allow PayPro to invigorate the development of its marketplace platform with integrated digital commerce solution for MSMEs, which will include a merchant portal as well as a mobile wallet for users to manage their personal finances, enabling a seamless experience for the Pakistani consumer.

PayPro has become a prominent player amongst the emerging fintechs in Pakistan, catering to a variety of MSMEs belonging to sectors such as agriculture, education, digital commerce, healthcare, hospitality, NGOs, real estate, insurance and travel. With continuous onboarding of merchants, the ever-expanding digital ecosystem is being facilitated by PayPro in a way which will digitize the informal business segment and enable seamless integration for both businesses and customers.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ali Janjua, the Chief Executive Officer of PayPro Pvt. (Ltd.) stated;

“Digital finance has become the cornerstone for progressive economies as a strong reminder that in order to be sustainable, transactions have to be conducted through digital channels, especially with the COVID-19

Pandemic in the equation. As customers in Pakistan begin to accept the new normal, PayPro is making sure to provide them with the tools necessary to perform a diverse range of financial transactions based on their day to day routine lives.

The USAID Small and Medium Enterprise Activity (SMEA) Innovation Grant is a testament to the efforts and the potential that the organization has displayed since its inception. It bolsters our confidence to continue on our mission of transforming the digital financial infrastructure within the country.”

PayPro was launched in September 2019 with a vision to enable enterprises to manage their business operations proficiently. Today, the company has processed approximately 70,000 transactions valued at more than 1 billion in throughput till date, with more than 430 merchants accepting payments through its services and a market accessibility of 25+ financial institutions including all major banks, digital wallets, MFI’s, branchless banking services, local and international card schemes and a nationwide network of over the counter cash collection partners.

PSDF to launch Digital Verification and Validation system developed by Jazz Business

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) The Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) has launched Digital Verification and Validation (DVV) system deployed by Jazz to offer an end-to-end digitalized attendance system and a comprehensive stipend disbursement solution. This collaboration is an initiative of Jazz Business, which has the largest and most comprehensive portfolio of B2B ICT services and is currently serving 95 of the top 100 PSX listed companies. In the approval phase with NADRA for biometric integration, the project will benefit over 100,000 PSDF’s students across Punjab.

The DVV system will digitize students’ data by collecting, biometrically verifying, and validating it against NADRA’s database. It will also help integrate trainee profiles into PSDF’s management information system, validate student attendances, and monitor the distribution of training learning resources. Using portable biometric devices, the system will ensure reduced staff-hours, quicker turnaround times, and the elimination of fake and ghost trainees. Moreover, through JazzCash, allocated monthly stipends will be deposited directly into the trainees’ accounts, giving them instant access to stipend and subsequently increasing digital financial inclusion.

Jawad Khan, The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PSDF, stated: “PSDF is the most modern and technology-savvy development sector company in Pakistan. The partnership with Jazz in the deployment of advanced technologies at PSDF training partner locations is part of our continuous efforts to deliver digital solutions to manage our entire operation.”

Ali Naseer, Chief Business Officer of Jazz, said, “Jazz Business provides unique solutions, offering reliability, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency to our customers. The DVV project will equip PSDF with high levels of data accuracy and security while decreasing operational costs through the use of best-in-class technologies. This collaboration is in line with our vision to develop a safe and robust digital ecosystem.”

Groove Mera hits 10 million views with a bang!

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) HBL PSL 6 anthem, ‘Groove Mera’ performed by Naseebo Lal, Aima Baig and Young Stunners has finally crossed 10 million views on Youtube.

Groove Mera premiered worldwide on February 6 and created a buzz amongst the fans who had a lot to say about the new PSL anthem.

After almost two weeks of its release, it is still trending on number 2 in Pakistan, which, along with crossing 10 million views in such a short time, is a huge win for the new anthem.

While a lot of fans had strong opinions about it on its release, it definitely grew on all of us. It is the kind of song that fans cannot help but sing along. It is fun and festive and can get one in a celebratory mood which is what PSL is all about.

The song crossing 10 million views is no surprise at all because of the fact that the anthem has a catchy beat and the lyrics are also captivating. Its trajectory means that crossing the 100-million-views mark is a matter of when and not if.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBdjwrywyKo