Pakistan’s banking sector has significantly reduced lending to businesses, with private sector credit now accounting for only 22 percent of total assets as of March 2026. This shift reflects a growing preference among banks to finance government borrowing, as they seek lower-risk investment opportunities and stable returns in an uncertain economic environment. Total banking assets […]
economic impact
Hormuz disruption triggered fears of increase in global oil markets
The ongoing disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has triggered a major upheaval in global oil markets, raising fears that crude prices could surge to as high as $200 per barrel. The crisis, now stretching beyond a month, is being described as one of the most severe oil supply shocks in modern history, with far-reaching […]
Vietnam shatters records with 20 million tourists in 2025
Vietnam welcomed nearly 20 million international visitors in 2025, marking a 20.9% growth from last year. This surge surpasses pre-pandemic tourism levels and highlights the country’s strong recovery. Tourism revenue has also increased significantly, benefiting multiple sectors across the nation. The growth comes from government initiatives, including visa policies, global marketing campaigns, and diversified travel […]
FinMin warns population growth could slow Pakistan’s economic gains
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday warned that unmanaged population growth could undermine the country’s economic progress, urging stakeholders to implement actionable measures. Read More: Pakistan population summit highlights urgent growth challenges Speaking at the Pakistan Population Summit-2025, he said real GDP growth alone would not unlock Pakistan’s potential unless population […]
Pakistan urged to confront escalating climate crises
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Musadik Malik on Wednesday issued a stern warning about the scale of climate-driven devastation facing Pakistan. Speaking at the 4th edition of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dialogue on the Economy 2025, he urged policymakers, businesses, and international partners to address the country’s climate vulnerabilities with urgency. Read […]
US government shutdown hits millions, Trump voters stay loyal
WASHINGTON: The longest government shutdown in US history is affecting millions of Americans financially, as federal workers miss paychecks and families face interrupted public benefits. Despite the disruptions, many Trump voters continue to support the former president, highlighting deep ideological divides in the country. Interviews with a panel of 20 Trump voters reveal that while […]