NATIONALPakistan’s beverage industry has proposed cutting FED on aerated waters from 20pc to 15pc in the upcoming budget. It says the move would expand the documented market and raise tax collections over three years.
NATIONALPrime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting in Islamabad to review sectoral reforms and policy measures aimed at increasing investment and supporting long-term economic growth, the PMO said.
WorldEuropean luxury brands are increasing their focus on the United States through new stores and fashion events as weaker demand in China, Europe and the Middle East weighs on the sector. Analysts say affluent American shoppers have remained comparatively resilient.
WorldAlphabet said it plans to raise up to $80 billion through stock sales to expand its artificial intelligence infrastructure. Berkshire Hathaway will invest $10 billion as part of the funding plan.
WorldIntel said Nvidia’s new Windows PC chip is a positive sign for the market, saying AI is creating new openings in personal computing. The company also announced upgrades to its AI data-centre products and new supply-chain partnerships at Computex in Taipei.
NATIONALSecurity forces foiled a suicide attack on a military post near Miranshah in North Waziristan, according to security sources. Four terrorists were killed and further operations were continuing in the area.
SportsPakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first against Australia in the second ODI in Lahore. The hosts lead the series 1-0 after a strong win in Rawalpindi led by debutant Arafat Minhas.
WorldA viral video shared as footage of Iranian strikes on US military bases in Kuwait actually shows an explosion at a fireworks factory in Malta, according to a fact check by iVerify Pakistan.
WorldNew Zealand has barred three Israelis from travelling to the country over alleged involvement in violent expansion of illegal West Bank settlements. The move aligns Wellington with Australia and the EU amid growing scrutiny of settler attacks on Palestinians.
NATIONALThe federal cabinet has approved a nationwide track and trace system for pharmaceutical products in Pakistan. The new framework will require standardised 2D barcodes on medicine packaging to help curb counterfeit drugs and improve supply chain oversight.
NATIONALItalian police have arrested two Pakistani nationals after four Pakistani farm workers were found dead in a burnt-out minivan in Calabria. Investigators say CCTV footage showed the van being sealed and set on fire.
NATIONALThe Pakistan Stock Exchange recovered on Tuesday after the previous session’s steep decline, with the KSE-100 Index rising more than 780 points by early afternoon. Buying was seen in key sectors including autos, cement, banks, and oil and gas exploration.
