Planning for Economic Survival on May 24, 2023The transformation of New Zealand’s economy is a tale of brilliant economic understanding and strategy. The humble beginnings of this Agri-based economy had the power and the prowess to transform. After experiencing its “wool boom” in the 1950s, New Zealand enjoyed one of the world’s highest standards of living in the world for 70 years. […]
The Economics of Smuggling on May 12, 2023The unfortunate political discourse has taken the spotlight away from many real issues facing Pakistan. I tweeted a few days ago, “Economics demands stability.” Without the presence of micro and macroeconomic stabilizers, a country cannot achieve economic growth. Yes, political stability is crucial to economic growth, but have we given any thought to the leakages […]
Pakistan’s Economic Reformation on May 6, 2023Pakistan is a country with 75 years of history, but countless challenges and opportunities to learn seem to have taught us nothing. We still find ourselves amidst the economic crisis, domestic challenges, political turmoil, and weakened international relations. As political debate takes over the media and our daily lives, I, like a handful of economists, […]
Global Isolation & Economic Failure on April 25, 2023Neighbouring India is turning the pages of history with its constant economic growth and prowess. The country that was only seen as one of the fastest-growing IT hubs, or one of the most lucrative consumer markets will now be trading with 18 countries in the Indian rupee. As countries around the globe gradually de-dollarize, we […]
The Vicious Circular Debt on April 8, 2023Is Pakistan’s power and energy sector on the verge of collapse? I was asked. “The fact that we have electricity and gas; if not in most then parts of the country is nothing less than a miracle,” I responded. I could feel a subtle quietness in the room, “Well everything is in god’s hand in […]
What a Sad Dar! on March 20, 2023The four-time Minister of Finance, respected Mr Ishaq Dar, who is considered a financial wizard by the PML-N supporters seems to have lost his magic with numbers. A few analysts believe that it is only due to the deteriorated economic conditions that were truly out of anyone’s control so Mr Dar is no exception. I, […]
Economic Lessons from Regional Actors on February 25, 2023When it comes to the regional discussion, South Asia remains incomplete without the mention of Pakistan. However, Pakistan has been in discussion for its crumbling economy, poor negotiations with the IMF, consistent political turmoil and a looming default threat especially in the aftermath of Sri Lanka’s Economic Default. There have been many solutions presented by […]
The Political Mavericks and The Neo-Economists on February 15, 2023The Muddling 90s as rightly titled by Dr Ishrat Hussain dragged Pakistan through four interim- appointments, four elected and a military coup that would change the country. The era is a stark reminder of the ongoing economic turbulence. Even though the economic challenges were no less different or difficult than in the muddling 90s compared […]
Oil Diplomacy: a Test of Nerves on January 20, 2023With the rising pressure on Pakistan’s economy and multiple major economic indicators predicting a grim situation. The newspapers continue to report the grim energy situation in the country. As the oil, gas and electricity challenges increase – both for the masses and the government; the decision-makers need to have a serious discussion about how they […]
Economic Case for a Technocratic Government on January 12, 2023The discussion of a technocratic government has been making headlines lately in Pakistan’s political arena. Nothing gets me more excited than the idea of technocracy at least being part of the political circle and being introduced to the masses. Even though I am a huge supporter of a meritocratic setup and a believer in its […]