Bank Makramah Limited Accelerates Recapitalization with Major Capital Injections and Strategic Asset Sale, Signaling Robust Future Growth

Bank Makramah Limited (BML) is making significant strides in its recapitalization efforts, reinforcing its commitment to long-term financial stability and growth. This progress is supported by a recent PKR 5 billion deposit from His Excellency Nasser Abdulla Hussain Lootah, BML's esteemed Sponsor.

 This amount, to be recorded as an advance against share subscription pending regulatory approvals, follows his earlier PKR 10 billion capital injection in 2023. In addition, the proposed merger of Global Haly Development Limited, a company owned by the Sponsor, into BML reflects his substantial commitment, which will total PKR 41 billion. The Bank extends its deepest gratitude to the Sponsor for his unwavering support and vision for BML and Pakistan's banking sector. 

In a concurrent strategic move, BML's Board of Directors has approved the sale of Cullinan Tower in Clifton, Karachi, for a confirmed offer of PKR 12 billion. This landmark transaction represents a major step, which will result in significant liquidity and capital gains for the Bank. 

Further bolstering its financial position, the Bank is in the final stage of recovering over PKR 13 billion of its legacy non-performing loans in the near future resulting in a strong impact on its profitability and capital base. 

All of the above initiatives are projected to increase BML's net assets by around PKR 50 billion. This shall further strengthen the Bank's commitment to better serve its customers and play a significant role in the financial sector of Pakistan.

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Payoneer Hosted “Game Leaders Connect 2025” to Power Global Growth for Pakistan’s Gaming Industry

Payoneer (NASDAQ: PAYO), the global financial technology company powering business growth across borders, hosted Payoneer's Game Leaders Connect 2025 in Lahore on June 21, 2025, an exclusive event focused on empowering 75 founders, decision makers and leaders of gaming studios and game app developers to build borderless brands and export-ready global businesses with industry insights and global market strategies and resources.

The event, held under the theme "Scaling Pakistani Game & App Exports: Growth, Monetization & Global Paydays," brought together ambitious founders, product heads, and ecosystem enablers from companies like InvoZone, Euphoria XR, TF Business Solutions, Solvefy, Fishry/Bramerz, and BDigital. Attendees engaged in sessions focused on overcoming real-world challenges of international billing, streamlining cross-border transactions, and building sustainable revenue streams. Payoneer hosted a workshop for developers and digital entrepreneurs to better understand how to leverage the Payoneer platform to accelerate global growth, including through virtual multi-currency accounts in multiple  global currencies, seamless global billing with multiple payments option for payers, and checkout services that remove global payment barriers and enable businesses in Pakistan to thrive in international markets.

"Pakistan is a priority market for Payoneer, and we are a trusted cross-border payments partner to leading game developers, tech companies, and service exporters in the country who leverage our business-grade features and secure platform for cross-border trade," said Nagesh Devata, SVP, Asia-Pacific at Payoneer. "As the gaming industry in the country rapidly expands, projected to reach nearly $1 billion in revenue in 2025 with over 45 million gamers and $158 million in exports, Payoneer is committed to continuing to support the ecosystem by seamlessly connecting Pakistan's SMBs  to the global, digital economy."

The event featured a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to inspire, inform, and engage attendees across topics including:

• Pakistan's $1B Gaming Exports Playbook: Hilal Khan, Chair of IGDA Pakistan, emphasized, "Building a robust ecosystem with streamlined monetization and global collaboration is key to realizing Pakistan's true potential in the international gaming market." He outlined a clear strategic roadmap to help attendees learn how to navigate ecosystem challenges, optimize monetization, and expand cross-border opportunities to scale their gaming businesses in the billion-dollar export sector.

• Scaling Fast, Getting Paid Faster: Talha Fakhar, Founder TF Business Solutions; Furqan Aziz, Founder and CEO of InvoZone; and Ahmad Malik, Co-Founder and CTO of Euphoria XR, had a panel discussion about the realities of dollar-based pricing, investor confidence in global earnings, and the impact of monetization strategies on scalability.

• Additional sessions on Building Borderless Brands and Building Export-Ready Game Dev Teams, led by Badar Khushnood of Fishry/Bramerz and Furqan Aziz of InvoZone respectively, explored how brands can leverage Pakistan's rapidly growing digital audience and social media platforms to reach global markets. Khushnood noted, "Building borderless brands means enabling game creators to scale beyond borders, turning local passion into global engagement. With Payoneer's seamless cross-border payouts, this vision becomes actionable, fueling Pakistan's game development industry to play on
the world stage."

Payoneer serves customers in 190+ countries and regions, leveraging relationships with nearly 100 banking and payment service providers. With approximately two million active customers, Payoneer processed $80 billion in volume in 2024. Payoneer also has approximately 100 customer success managers in 35 countries, speaking over 20 languages, building strong, localized relationships with SMBs to support their global businesses.

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CBD PUNJAB STRENGTHENS ACADEMIA-INDUSTRY LINKAGES WITH BAHRIA UNIVERSITY STUDENT VISIT

The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as the Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), welcomed a delegation of MS Project Management students from Bahria University for an immersive academic visit to its flagship development, NSIT City. The initiative aimed to provide future project managers with first-hand exposure to cutting-edge project execution and management practices in the heart of Punjab's premier business hub.

 

During the visit, the students received comprehensive briefings on CBD Punjab's operational framework and ongoing development initiatives. Detailed sessions were led by Mr. Asif Iqbal, Director of Project Management at CBD Punjab, and Mr. Yasir Saifullah, Project Manager at NSIT City, who shared insights into the strategic planning, execution, and challenges of large-scale urban development projects.

 

A highlight of the visit was a guided tour of the Celestia IT Office Tower, a hallmark of innovation within NSIT City. Here, students observed real-time infrastructure planning and on-ground project execution, gaining valuable practical knowledge that bridges the gap between academic theory and industry realities.

 

This academic-industry collaboration reflects CBD Punjab's commitment to nurturing the next generation of project management professionals. The visit provided an ideal platform for students to engage directly with industry experts, enhancing their understanding of modern project management methodologies and the complexities of urban development.

 

Imran Amin, CEO of CBD Punjab, commented on the occasion: "At CBD Punjab, we believe in empowering the leaders of tomorrow by fostering strong connections between academia and industry. We are proud to open our doors to students and young professionals eager to learn from the transformational projects shaping the future of our country. By providing real-world learning opportunities, we not only enhance academic growth but also inspire and equip the next generation of nation-builders to drive meaningful change."

 

CBD Punjab remains dedicated to supporting educational initiatives and building a skilled workforce capable of delivering innovative solutions for Pakistan's urban future.

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Zindigi and LDA Launch Plantation Drive to Promote a Greener Future in Lahore

To mark World Environment Day, Zindigi powered by JS Bank and LDA launched a large-scale plantation drive today at LDA Avenue 1 Lahore. The initiative, a part of Zindigi's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, aims to contribute toward environmental sustainability and build a greener Lahore and Pakistan for future generations.

 
The plantation drive was inaugurated by Atif Ishaque, Chief  Business Officer of Zindigi, along with Vice Chairman LDA Mian Marghoob Ahmed and DG LDA Tahir Farooq. Together, the leadership teams symbolically planted the first saplings, marking the beginning of a collective movement to promote environmental responsibility.

 
As the world grapples with the intensifying effects of climate change from rising temperatures to extreme weather events Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. Ranked among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change, it is imperative that immediate and long-term actions are taken to restore ecological balance. Tree plantation remains one of the most effective, nature-based solutions to absorb carbon emissions, improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and preserve biodiversity.

 
DG LDA Tahir Farooq said that the LDA has amended its regulations and made the construction of grey water treatment plants mandatory in one-kanal houses. He emphasized that, with the support of the private sector, development authorities can educate the public and the construction industry to adopt environmentally friendly initiatives and global best practices. DG Tahir Farooq added that the LDA has planted more than 300,000 trees in various schemes with the support of private sector. He appreciated the support of  Zindigi by JS Bank in promoting a greener future.

"At Zindigi, we believe that true business strength lies not just in growth, but in purpose. As we mark World Environment Day, we're not just planting trees, we're planting hope, resilience, and responsibility for future generations." stated Atif Ishaque, Chief Business Officer Zindigi.

On this occasion, Vice Chairman LDA Mian Marghoob Ahmed said that, on the special directions of CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz, the Lahore Development Authority has shifted its focus to promoting eco-friendly initiatives. He said that the LDA, in collaboration with the private sector, is encouraging green buildings, solarization, planned urbanization, and other initiatives to mitigate smog.

This CSR effort by Zindigi not only aligns with UN SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) but also underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing Pakistan's growing environmental challenges. Through this initiative, Zindigi and LDA are setting a precedent for meaningful collaboration that creates lasting, positive change.

 
With this plantation drive, Zindigi reiterates its belief in sustainable innovation—not just in digital finance, but in building a better, cleaner world for the generations to come.

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Gaming in 2025 Just Got Smarter – TCL’s C6K is the Ultimate Console Companion

If you're a console gamer in Pakistan, your setup isn't complete without a TV that keeps up with your skills, and that's exactly what TCL's new C6K QD-Mini LED TV delivers. Designed to elevate your gaming experience, the C6K brings premium features to the living room at an unbeatable value. Whether you're into fast-paced shooters, FIFA marathons, or open-world adventures, TCL's C6K is built to deliver smooth, responsive, and visually stunning gameplay right out of the box.

144Hz Native Refresh Rate – Game On with Ultra-Smooth Motion
The 144Hz native refresh rate is a standout feature in the C6K, especially in this price segment. This means less motion blur and more precise movement, crucial for competitive gameplay. Pair that with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Game Master Mode, and you've got a display that reacts as fast as you do.

Console-Friendly Features That Do the Work for You
Thanks to HDMI 2.1 support and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), the C6K automatically switches to optimal gaming settings the moment it detects your console. Say goodbye to lag and hello to real-time response and high-speed action.

More Than Just Gaming – It's Your All-in-One Entertainment Hub
The C6K isn't just made for gamers, it's your complete home entertainment powerhouse. With Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos powered by a premium Onkyo 2.1 Channel Hi-Fi sound system, it delivers stunning visuals and immersive audio for movie nights, binge-worthy dramas, and live cricket like never before. Powered by Google TV, you get instant access to YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, and more through an effortless, user-friendly interface that fits perfectly into your lifestyle.

Key Gaming Features on TCL C6K:
• 144Hz Native Refresh Rate for ultra-smooth visuals
• 240Hz Game Accelerator for next-level responsiveness
• AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for reduced screen tearing
• Game Master Mode for optimal performance
• HDMI 2.1 & ALLM for faster response times
• Dolby Vision IQ & HDR10+ for immersive visuals
• Now available across Pakistan in 55", 65", 75", 85" and 98" sizes, the TCL C6K QD-Mini LED TV starts at just PKR 224,900, making premium entertainment more accessible than ever for Pakistani consumers.

Ready to Level Up?
If you're ready to upgrade your console gaming experience without breaking the bank, the TCL C6K is the smart choice for 2025. High-performance visuals, gamer-first features, and cinematic clarity — all from Pakistan's trusted name in smart TVs.

Available now at TCL Flagship Stores, leading electronics retailers nationwide, and online at the official TCL Pakistan website: www.tclpakistan.com

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CBD Punjab's NSIT Silicon Block Notified as Special Technology Zone by STZA

In a significant step toward strengthening Pakistan's high-tech ecosystem, the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) has officially notified the NSIT Silicon Block as a Special Technology Zone (STZ). This landmark development positions Punjab at the forefront of the nation's digital transformation and underscores the region's growing appeal to global and local tech investors.

The notification paves the way for the next phase of development, with the ZD License and Development Agreement currently in process. These crucial steps will ensure the timely execution of infrastructure plans and facilitate streamlined investment processes for future projects.

CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, remarked, "The notification of NSIT Silicon Block as an STZ reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a future-ready ecosystem in Punjab. This move will not only attract global and local tech investors but also foster innovation, job creation, and economic growth. We are working closely with STZA to expedite the next steps, including the ZD license and Development Agreement, ensuring swift and seamless development of the zone."

The NSIT Silicon Block is a flagship initiative under CBD Punjab, envisioned as a cutting-edge technology cluster that will host industries specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, software development, and R&D labs.

By securing this designation, CBD Punjab strengthens its role as a key driver of economic diversification and technological advancement in Pakistan. The STZ status is expected to catalyze innovation, boost exports, and generate skilled employment opportunities, thereby contributing meaningfully to the national economy.

CBD Punjab continues to set benchmarks for progressive urban development and future-oriented economic planning in the country.

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CBD PUNJAB BRINGS STRATEGIC INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY WITH NSIT RESIDENCIA AUCTION

The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as the Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), is all set to hold the auction of premium residential plots in NSIT Residencia this June. Building on the momentum of four previously successful auctions, this latest venture marks another bold step forward in the authority's mission to redefine urban living and development in Punjab.

NSIT City is envisioned as a dynamic urban center comprising three districts  IT, Education and Film districts. Located adjacent to DHA Phase 6 and 7.

NSIT Residencia sits at the heart of this transformative zone, making it a strategic and future-ready investment opportunity offering unmatched accessibility to key locations within Lahore. Positioned as the next sought-after address in the provincial capital, NSIT Residencia combines luxury living with smart city infrastructure, providing investors with an exceptional opportunity.

CBD Punjab is offering four premium plots of up to four kanals each in this prime location. The reserve price has been set at PKR 95 million per kanal, with earnest money fixed at PKR 20 million. To ensure greater ease and accessibility for potential buyers, a flexible three-year payment plan has been introduced, making this an attractive prospect for both local and overseas investors. Applications for the auction must be submitted by June 16, 2025.

Commenting about the upcoming auction, CEO CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, said: "NSIT Residencia is a key part of our vision for a future-ready Punjab. By integrating IT, education and film districts within a single urban ecosystem, we are creating a city of opportunity. This auction is not just a real estate event it's an invitation to invest in the next chapter of Punjab's growth story."
The development of NSIT Residencia is expected to generate a positive ripple effect on the regional economy. From job creation and increased real estate value to improved infrastructure and sustainable urban planning, the auction will contribute significantly to Punjab's socio-economic advancement.
CBD Punjab continues to lead with forward-thinking initiatives that align with the government's vision for a modern, inclusive, and globally competitive Punjab. The upcoming auction of NSIT Residencia reflects the authority's unwavering commitment to building smart, connected, and future-ready urban communities.

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Karandaaz and GrowTech Partner to Empower Smallholder Farmers through AgriTech and Financial Inclusion

In a strategic move to reshape Pakistan's agricultural ecosystem, Karandaaz Pakistan, an impact investment platform dedicated to driving sustainable economic growth and strengthening financial and social protection systems for inclusion, has partnered with GrowTech, an AgriTech innovator, to expand digital and financial access for smallholder farmers. This collaboration will accelerate the adoption of smart agriculture practices and digital financial tools across underserved regions of Punjab.
GrowTech, recognized for its tech-driven approach to farming, will leverage its digital platform to extend agriculture practice advisory, and access to agri-markets and input suppliers in new geographic areas. The initiative will support farmers in boosting productivity and profitability in an increasingly competitive market.
"This partnership with GrowTech reflects our commitment to harnessing technology and finance to uplift Pakistan's agriculture sector. By reaching farmers where they are – digitally and physically – we're enabling a more inclusive, productive, and climate-resilient agri-economy," said Waqas ul Hasan, CEO, Karandaaz Pakistan.
To further strengthen the link between digital solutions and on-ground support, the project will establish Farmer Facilitation Centres in two new regions of Punjab. These centres will serve as community hubs, offering in-person assistance, digital training, and capacity-building programs. Local leaders will also be engaged through digital marketing and e-commerce workshops, ensuring widespread adoption and empowerment.
Recognizing logistics as a key enabler in agricultural success, the partnership will foster new alliances with local logistics providers to streamline supply chains. Farmers will benefit from more reliable and timely distribution networks, enhancing their market reach and operational efficiency.
A key element of the partnership is piloting the provision of financing to farmers leveraging electronic warehouse receipts allowing them to store their agriculture produce and use it to alleviate their capital constraints. Furthermore, in order to benefit female farmers, livestock and health advisory is also being integrated onto the digital platform.
"Through its partnership with Karandaaz, Growtech is digitally transforming agriculture by empowering farmers, especially smallholders and women, expanding rural market access, and building Pakistan's leading platform for inclusive, sustainable, and technology-driven farming growth," said Faisal Bilal, CEO, Growtech.
"Karandaaz is committed to driving financial inclusion, and agriculture remains one of the most financially underserved sectors in Pakistan while being the cornerstone of Pakistan's economy. As part of this mission, Karandaaz is actively partnering with agritech firms, financial institutions (FIs), and fintech companies to ensure inclusion at the last mile. With our support and GrowTech's proven expertise, we aim to deliver a comprehensive and commercially sustainable suite of financial services and agriculture advisory solutions to cater to the specific needs of the smallholder farmers across Pakistan." said Sharjeel Murtaza, Chief Digital Officer (CDO), Karandaaz Pakistan.
The project is expected to impact tens of thousands of farmers, creating a replicable model for future AgriTech and financial inclusion partnerships in Pakistan.

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Transforming Small Business Finance for Inclusive Growth

In a major step toward strengthening small business finance in

Pakistan; Karandaaz Pakistan, Accelerate Prosperity (AP)- an AKDN initiative, and Parwaaz Financial
Services Limited (PFSL) have entered a strategic partnership, with a particular focus on women-led
enterprises, climate-tech start-ups, and innovation-driven ventures.

This initiative aims to bridge a critical market gap by addressing the financial needs of businesses too
large for microfinance yet perceived as risky by traditional commercial banks. Leveraging
Karandaaz's extensive expertise in small business finance, AP's provision of capital to early stage
companies, and PFSL's innovative lending models, the partnership seeks to foster sustainable
economic growth and financial inclusion across underserved sectors.

Setting the tone at the event, Mr Akhtar Iqbal, CEO Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan (AKF-P), spoke
about the growing need for innovative partnerships to support Pakistan's entrepreneurial
ecosystem. Introducing the collaboration between AP, Karandaaz, and PFSL, he noted, "Having
deployed over USD 15 million across 500+ businesses in Central and South Asia through various
instruments, AP is now deepening its engagement with the ecosystem — cultivating strategic
partnerships, advancing innovative financing mechanisms, and enabling co-investment opportunities
to maximize support for these businesses."

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Mr Waqas ul Hasan, CEO Karandaaz, stated, "Small
businesses form the backbone of our economy, driving job creation, economic stability, and
innovation. As a pioneer and market leader in developing innovative financial solutions, Karandaaz
consistently strives to set an example for the sector. It's a momentous occasion that these
institutions namely AP, Karandaaz and PFSL are coming together for delivering a market
development access to finance solution for small businesses."

The partnership is closely aligned with broader development priorities, including inclusive economic
growth and climate resilience. Ms Henrietta Hamilton, Deputy Development Director at the UK's
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), reaffirmed the UK's commitment to
supporting such initiatives: "The UK government supports inclusive economic growth, gender
equality, and climate resilience. This collaboration shows how development finance and private-
sector expertise can work together to overcome market barriers and promote sustainable economic
development."

Mr. Sebastian Jacobi, Director at KfW, noted the broader impact this partnership will have on the
startup ecosystem in Pakistan: "This collaboration between AP, Karandaaz and PFSL sets an
important precedent for the startup ecosystem in Pakistan. The KfW financed startup project will
surely benefit from this collaboration."

Mr Javed Iqbal, CEO PFSL, added further context about the importance of tailored financial products:
"Small enterprises, particularly those led by women or working in climate resilience, face specific
challenges that traditional banking models don't address. This collaboration enables us to offer
inclusive, flexible financial solutions designed specifically for their unique needs, helping them scale
and thrive sustainably."

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itel Energy Showcases Innovative Solar Solutions at Pakistan Sustainability Week 2025

itel Energy, a pioneering solar energy solutions provider, is proud to announce its participation as a Gold Sponsor at Pakistan Sustainability Week 2025, taking place at the Expo Center Lahore from February 21st to 23rd. Setting new industry standards in customer service and reliability, itel Energy offers a comprehensive sales and service policy, including a 3-year replacement & 5-year replacement warranty, a 48-hour replacement guarantee, and access to 48 service shops across Pakistan. These key commitments ensure unparalleled support and convenience, making itel Energy a trusted choice for Pakistani homes and businesses.

As a brand dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, itel Energy is set to showcase its latest advancements in renewable energy solutions, aimed at empowering Pakistani homes and businesses with clean, affordable, and reliable power. At the itel Energy booth (Hall 2, Booth M-2-03 to M-2-10), visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of cutting-edge solar energy solutions, including the IP54 4kW Pro LV Battery 2.56 kWh (Wall Mount), IP54 6kW Pro LV Battery 5.12 kWh, Hybrid IP54 8KW-SP, LV Battery 5.12 kWh Rack, IP66 12kW Pro, IP66 6kW Pro, On-Grid IP66 12KW-3P, On-Grid IP66 17kW, and Smart All-in-One ESS.

These solutions have been designed to address Pakistan's energy challenges by offering high performance, superior protection, and cost-effective alternatives tailored to the country's growing energy demands. Recognizing the distinct energy needs faced by Pakistani homes and businesses, itel Energy has developed products that deliver exceptional performance, robust protection, and affordability, ensuring reliable and efficient power for a brighter future.

Mr. Eason, Vice President at itel Energy, emphasized the company's dedication to revolutionizing Pakistan's energy landscape, stating, "itel Energy is committed to driving sustainable energy adoption in Pakistan by offering cutting-edge, reliable, and affordable solar solutions. Our goal is to empower businesses and households with innovative technology that ensures energy independence while contributing to a greener future."

With a strong commitment to promoting sustainable energy, itel Energy continues to focus on delivering solutions that combine efficiency, durability, and affordability. Attendees at Pakistan Sustainability Week 2025 are invited to visit itel Energy's booth to explore the latest advancements in solar technology, engage with industry experts, and witness live demonstrations. As an added highlight, visitors will also have the chance to participate in an exciting lucky draw for a chance to win exclusive prizes. Don't miss this opportunity to discover how itel Energy is shaping the future of renewable energy in Pakistan, while enjoying an interactive and rewarding experience at the expo.

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