Skip to main content

Pakistani Stock Market Perspective 2026: Is KSE-100 Boom Real Growth or Speculative Illusion?

The KSE-100 Index has delivered jaw-dropping returns, surging over 425% since 2021 when it stood around 44,000 points closing at 172,170 on February 19, 2026 after a recent 3.74% dip. Market capitalization ballooned from PKR 6.5 trillion in June 2020 to PKR 19.69 trillion (USD 70.25 billion) by December 2025, with free-float at roughly USD 53 billion. Yet renowned chartered accountant Syed Shabbar Zaidi raises sharp questions in his latest analysis: does this rally truly mirror Pakistan’s economic health, or is it largely driven by speculation, high bank profits from government borrowings, and oil & gas gains tied to rupee depreciation and dollar indexation? The full opinion piece is available on Business Recorder . Zaidi highlights stark realities Pakistan’s market cap-to-GDP ratio sits at just 17% (with 2025 GDP around USD 407 411 billion), compared to India’s 130% (market cap over USD 5 trillion) and the USA’s 100%. Listed companies have barely grown (535 today vs 659 in 2005...
Post a Comment

America Has Put Us on Notice Again: Visa Suspension for Pakistan and 74 Other Countries


Honestly, is anyone even surprised anymore? The United States has once again shown us exactly where we stand in their grand scheme of things. The US State Department has announced that starting January 21, they’re suspending immigrant visa processing for Pakistan along with 74 other countries. Yes, you read that correctly  75 countries total.

And what’s their reasoning? Apparently, they want to ensure that new immigrants don’t become a drain on American taxpayer resources.  This, after decades of Pakistanis contributing to every sector of American society – from doctors saving lives in hospitals to engineers building tech companies, from small business owners to hardworking taxi drivers. Suddenly, we’re all potential liabilities.


The timing couldn’t be more telling. This announcement comes just as the new administration is settling in, and it seems like the old playbook is being dusted off once again. For ordinary Pakistanis who have been waiting in queues for years, dreaming of reuniting with family members or seeking better opportunities, this news hits like a ton of bricks.


What hurts most is the blanket approach. Pakistan gets lumped together with dozens of other nations, no nuance, no consideration for individual circumstances. The message is clear: doesn’t matter if you’re a skilled professional, a student with a scholarship, or someone trying to join family – you’re all in the same boat now.


And let’s be honest, this isn’t just about visas. It’s about dignity and respect. It’s about how the world views us and how we’re constantly made to feel like we need to prove ourselves worthy.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Has Social Media Become the Loudest Voice for Justice in the Israel-Palestine Conflict?

  In a world filled with turmoil and suffering, social media emerges as a powerful force challenging narratives, demanding justice, and giving voice to the voiceless. The recent conflict in the Middle East has not only exposed the harsh realities faced by the Palestinians but also highlighted the evolving role of social media in shaping global opinions. The Unheard Voices of Palestine: A Cry for Justice As violence escalated, Palestinian voices struggled to be heard amidst a media landscape seemingly biased against them. The article delves into how mainstream Western media outlets inadvertently became mouthpieces for one side, prompting a surge in social media activism. Social Media as the Unfiltered Truth The narrative unfolds, revealing the dichotomy between mainstream media and the unfiltered truth found on social media platforms. Gripping accounts, poignant images, and raw emotions flooded these platforms, contrasting starkly with the restrained coverage from major news outlet...
Post a Comment
Read more

UAE Reaffirms Strong Ties with Pakistan on 77th Independence Day

 As Pakistan marked its 77th Independence Day, the UAE demonstrated its continued support and friendship. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the leadership and people of Pakistan on this significant occasion. His message was shared via his official account on X (formerly known as Twitter), where he expressed his warm wishes for Pakistan’s progress and stability. In his message, HH Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the enduring relationship between the UAE and Pakistan, emphasizing that as Pakistan moves forward in its journey toward development, the UAE remains committed to strengthening the bonds that unite the two nations. This gesture underscores the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and Pakistan, a relationship built on mutual respect, shared values, and a long history of cooperation. Pakistan and the UAE have maintained close diplomatic, economic, and cultural ...
Post a Comment
Read more

No Ban On Airing Imran's Speeches, Pemra Tells LHC

 In a recent development, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) clarified to the Lahore High Court that there is no longer a ban on broadcasting former Prime Minister Imran Khan's speeches. This revelation came during the hearing of a petition filed by Imran, who had challenged Pemra's decision to prohibit satellite TV channels from airing his speeches and press talks. The initial ban was imposed swiftly after Imran criticized former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, accusing him of shielding current rulers in alleged corruption cases. Imran argued that Pemra's ban was fueled by vengeance, leading to a legal battle that spanned eight hearings. During the recent court session, Justice Shams Mehmood Mirza stressed that Pemra should refrain from pressuring TV channels on the concerns raised by the petitioner. Surprisingly, Pemra's counsel, Haroon Duggal, stated unequivocally that there is no existing ban on broadcasting Imran Khan's speeches. This reso...
Post a Comment
Read more