Barrister Sultan Bajwa, Parliamentary Secretary for HUD & PHED, Visits CBD Punjab

                                                             

The Central Business District (CBD) Punjab proudly welcomed Barrister Sultan Bajwa, Parliamentary Secretary for the Housing, Urban Development & Public Health Engineering Department (HUD & PHED), for an insightful briefing on the progress and future of its flagship projects.

CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, alongside COO Brigadier (Retd) Mansoor Janjua, extended a warm reception to Barrister Bajwa upon his arrival at the CBD Complex. Imran Amin delivered a comprehensive presentation, spotlighting key initiatives such as CBD Prime, Quaid District, and NSIT City. He emphasized their pivotal role in reshaping the urban landscape and catalyzing economic growth across the region.

"The projects undertaken by CBD Punjab are not just infrastructural developments; they embody our commitment to fostering innovation and prosperity. We are strategically positioning CBD Punjab to attract local and international investments, thereby stimulating economic activities and creating ample job opportunities," remarked CEO CBD Punjab ,Imran Amin during his address.

The briefing session gathered prominent officials, including Waseem Siddiq, Director of Marketing, and Ali Waqar Shah, Director of Business Development & Investor Relations. Waseem Siddiq provided a detailed overview of ongoing and upcoming projects, underscoring CBD Punjab's strategic planning, robust marketing endeavors, and prospects aligned with the vision of establishing the district as a premier business and commercial hub.

At the conclusion of the meeting, CEO Imran Amin presented Barrister Sultan Bajwa with a commemorative token of appreciation from CBD Punjab, expressing gratitude for his visit and ongoing support. Barrister Sultan Bajwa lauded the efforts of CBD Punjab, affirming its transformative impact on Punjab's development trajectory.

"CBD Punjab is emerging as a pivotal player in advancing Punjab's economic landscape," acknowledged Barrister Sultan Bajwa. "The visionary projects being executed here will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the province's growth agenda."

The session concluded on a positive note, with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to realizing CBD Punjab's ambitious goals of sustainable urban development and economic prosperity.

Infinix x WGSN: Where Trends Meet Technology in Vibrant Hues

                                                       

OPPO, a global leader in smart devices, today officially announced a groundbreaking 4-year partnership with Pakistan’s pride, Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem. They appointed Arshad Nadeem as their Quality Ambassador in a press conference held in Lahore.  This collaboration marks the union of two champions—Arshad Nadeem, a symbol of strength, endurance, and excellence in his sport, and OPPO which embodies these same values in the world of smartphones.

OPPO also launched its remarkable series OPPO A3x in partnership with Arshad Nadeem. Designed for all-round, everyday endurance and durability, the new series features a damage-proof body with Military-Grade Shock Resistance and Multiple Liquid Resistance, plus a long-lasting 5,100mAh large battery and 45W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charge that together ensure the optimal user experience for both work and play for up to four years.

Talking to the media Arshad Nadeem shared his excitement about the partnership, he said, “I want to thank OPPO for this incredible opportunity to partner with a brand that represents quality and strength—values close to my heart. Over the next four years, I’ll experience OPPO's reliability not just as a partner, but as a consumer too. The upcoming A Series, in particular, offers the best choice in its price range.”

During the event, Arshad Nadeem gave an exclusive demonstration by performing a live durability test by "throwing" the OPPO’s latest launch A3x phone like a javelin, showcasing its endurance and resistance. With additional features like a 1,000 nits Ultra Bright Display, Ultra Volume Mode, the Snapdragon® 6s 4G Gen1 mobile platform, and ample memory and storage, the new OPPO A3x also elevate entertainment experiences across everything from extreme gaming to video streaming.

Talking about this partnership, CEO of OPPO Pakistan, George Long said, “It’s an honor to announce our 4-year partnership with Pakistan’s pride, Arshad Nadeem. This collaboration aligns us with a champion who embodies strength, resilience, and dedication—values that reflect OPPO's mission. At OPPO, we believe in creating products that stand the test of time, just like our new A Series, which we proudly call the "Durability Champion." We are excited for this journey and are dedicated to supporting the sports industry in Pakistan, inspiring future champions. Thank you, Arshad, for joining the OPPO family; together, we will elevate strength, durability, and quality."

The OPPO A3x is now available in Nebula Red and Ocean Blue colors for PKR 34,999. It is available for purchase nationwide and online on OPPO’s official stores.

INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES EYE EXPANSION AT CBD PUNJAB’S EDUCATION DISTRICT IN NSIT CITY

                                                          

A high-level delegation from the Scotland Chamber of Commerce and Robert Gordon University, led by Scotland's Trade Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Jeanette Forbes, OBE, paid an official visit to the Punjab Central Business District Development Authourity (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab).

 The delegation included the Vice Principal Robert Gordon University Scotland, Professor Lynn Kilbride, Dr. Elliot Pirie, Associate Dean for Academic Development and Student Engagement, Robert Gordon University, Scotland, Director FPCCI Pakistan-UK Business Council Arslan Ijaz Anwer, and Project Manager Taar Consulting Sana Mehwish, highlighting the growing interest of international institutions in CBD Punjab's projects.

The delegation was warmly received by the CEO CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the various ongoing projects under the CBD Punjab banner. A special emphasis was laid on the development of the Education District within the landmark CBD NSIT City project, which has become a cornerstone of CBD Punjab’s vision to promote higher education and foster innovation in the region.

During the briefing, Imran Amin shared the authority’s plans for the Education District, stating, “CBD NSIT City's Education District is designed with state-of-the-art infrastructure and world-class facilities to accommodate local and international universities. Our goal is to create an academic hub where institutions from across the globe can establish their campuses and contribute to the intellectual and economic growth of Punjab.”

He further mentioned that CBD Punjab is actively engaging with several prestigious international and local universities to set up their campuses in the Education District. The ongoing discussions reflect CBD Punjab’s commitment to transforming the area into a global knowledge and research center that aligns with international educational standards.

Dr. Janet Forbs, Scotland's Trade Ambassador, praised the initiatives taken by CBD Punjab, particularly the innovative concept of CBD NSIT City. She remarked, "The projects of CBD Punjab, especially the Education District, have the potential to significantly contribute to the economic development of Punjab. The forward-thinking approach of the authority is commendable, and we look forward to furthering collaborations that can benefit both Scotland and Pakistan."

In addition, the Vice Principal and Dean of Robert Gordon University expressed keen interest in exploring the possibilities of establishing a campus within the Education District of CBD NSIT City. They recognized the district’s strategic significance in providing quality education and fostering international academic partnerships.

The visit also saw active participation from CBD Punjab’s Chief Operating Officer, Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua, Director Business Development CBD Punjab Ali Waqar Shah, Director Marketing CBD Punjab, Waseem Siddiq and Director Architecture & Planning CBD Punjab Sameer Aftab Sial. The visit concluded with a mutual agreement to continue discussions and explore potential collaborations in the fields of education, research, and economic development.

Apple’s New Rival? Infinix Plans to Release the World’s Thinnest 6mm Phone!

                                                               

As the highly anticipated launch of Apple’s iPhone 16 approaches, the tech world is buzzing with speculation. But here’s a twist: recent leaks indicate that Apple might not be making as many changes as we expected. Reports suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro Max will likely retain the same 8.3mm thickness as its predecessor. While this means the phone will still house a larger battery and advanced components, it seems Apple is opting for a design that remains familiar rather than revolutionary.

Just when we thought the smartphone race couldn’t get any more interesting, Infinix swoops in with a game-changing proposition. Founded in 2013, this up-and-coming Android brand has been making a name for itself by focusing on the needs of younger consumers. Now, Infinix is poised to steal the spotlight with a potential breakthrough: a smartphone that could become the slimmest in the world. Early leaks suggest that this new device might come in at less than 6mm thick—an astonishing feat in today’s market!

Leaked Images: What We’re Seeing

Recent leaks offer a tantalizing preview of what Infinix has in store. A leaked image from an Infinix employee showcases a device with a remarkably slim profile—almost too thin to believe. The images also reveal a tri-camera setup, reminiscent of the HOT 50 5G, but with an even sleeker design. It can also be seen with a 3D curved display, a feature often found in flagship devices.

The HOT 50 5G, which was launched in India just a few days ago, has already made a significant impact. Despite its impressively slim 7.8mm profile, it boasts a tri-camera setup, a substantial 5000mAh battery, and an IP54-rated build. This device has demonstrated that Infinix can deliver a slim design without compromising on essential features. If these leaks are accurate, Infinix might be on the brink of a major design breakthrough while maintaining functionality.

Slimness vs. Functionality: The Balancing Act

Creating an ultra-slim phone is no easy task. While Apple’s recent models have grown thicker to accommodate more advanced features and larger batteries, Infinix’s approach might be a game-changer. Achieving a thickness of under 6mm while still packing in high-performance components would be a monumental achievement. It’s a testament to how far smartphone design has come and a glimpse into what the future might hold. The burning question now is: how did Infinix manage to achieve this impressive feat, if these leaks turn out to be true?

Android vs. Apple: The Innovation Battle

The rivalry between Android and Apple has always driven innovation, and this latest development is no exception. From foldable screens to rapid charging and advanced camera systems, Android brands have consistently pushed the boundaries. Infinix’s potential breakthrough with the world’s thinnest phone could set a new standard for what’s possible in mobile design, and it’s certainly something to keep an eye on.

Conclusion: The Future of Smartphone Design

As we count down the days to the official unveiling of the iPhone 16 Series, one question lingers: will Apple surprise us with a slimmer design, or stick with the tried-and-true approach? Meanwhile, Infinix’s ambitious plan to release the world’s thinnest phone could redefine the limits of smartphone design. With both Apple and Infinix pushing the boundaries, it’s an exciting time for tech enthusiasts. Stay tuned—this is one race you won’t want to miss.

Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited (PQFTL) becomes the first company in Pakistan to introduce Instant Withdrawal facility in Takaful industry

              

Pak-Qatar Family Takaful Limited (PQFTL), a leading provider of Family Takaful solutions and part of Pak-Qatar Group, Pakistan's premier and pioneer Islamic financial services group, is pleased to announce a unique instant withdrawal facility for its Mahana Bachat customers. This innovative service allows participants to withdraw partial funds in case of emergencies in a matter of minutes with ease and instant access through PQFTL's mobile app, 'Pak-Qatar Financial Solutions' (PQFS) or its online portal. 

This is the first time that a Takaful operator in Pakistan has offered such a facility, reinforcing PQFTL's position as a pioneer in the industry. This integration will enable participants to easily draw their funds, enhancing convenience and accessibility for the users.

Mr. Waqas Ahmad, CEO of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are delighted to offer this innovative instant withdrawal service. Our strategic approach not only enhances our end-to-end service delivery but also aligns with our vision to provide innovative and customer-centric financial solutions. We believe this facility will greatly benefit our participants by providing them with unprecedented ease of access to their funds."

This unique facility represents a significant step forward in the evolution of Islamic financial services in Pakistan, providing customers with more flexibility and control over their financial assets. PQFTL remains committed to driving innovation and excellence in the Islamic financial services industry and this initiative is a display of PQFTL’s dedication to prioritizing customer satisfaction and convenience.

Finance teams - evolve now or become irrelevant

               

           

Finance teams have just five years to transform or risk becoming irrelevant, according to a new report by ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and Chartered Accountants ANZ in association with PwC. The report, Finance evolution: Thriving in the next decade, stresses the vital role finance teams play in building sustainable businesses and urges CFOs and finance leaders to take immediate action.

Drawing on insights from over 150 finance professionals and 2,300 survey responses, the report shows that businesses now demand a broader skill set from their finance teams, as retrospective reporting and traditional approaches to planning and forecasting alone no longer meet key decision-makers' needs. Being pre-emptive is the order of the day. 

The report highlights some ongoing concerns raised by survey respondents:

·         A lack of clarity on how finance can add value to the business (38%)

·         Finance being seen mainly as a cost centre (32%)

·         Current technology not meeting the needs of the organisation (30%)

Finance teams must embrace technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics, to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. These technologies help finance teams reduce manual tasks, boost efficiency, and be recognised as key drivers of growth rather than merely number crunchers. The role of finance has also expanded to include leadership on long-term value creation including sustainability issues.

However, the report also emphasises that as finance teams undergo this transformation, the importance of ethics must remain at the forefront. With the increasing reliance on technology and data, maintaining a strong ethical foundation is crucial to building and sustaining trust.

Helen Brand OBE, Chief Executive of ACCA, said, ‘For finance teams to stay relevant, they need to look ahead. CFOs and finance leaders must ensure they are measuring both the long-term and short-term goals of sustainable business models effectively. The role of the CFO is fast evolving beyond finance to encompass wider value creation and management.’

Ainslie van Onselen, Chief Executive Officer of Chartered Accountants ANZ, stated, ‘While the arrival of new technology presents exciting opportunities to radically transform and improve the way we work, the one thing that must never change is our profession’s strong ethical standing.  While we upskill and future proof our technology capabilities, we must also remain firmly focused on the ethical role that financial professionals – especially Chartered Accountants – must play.’

Moreover, the report highlights significant skill deficits in the areas of digital, data, and sustainability. Addressing these gaps is essential for finance teams to lead effectively in the next decade.

Simon Seymour, Partner at PwC, noted, ‘Respondents highlighted their biggest skills gaps as digital skills, data skills and sustainability skills.  A critical question for the industry, as a whole, is why these skills gaps remain so pronounced and how far organisations should go to own the skills agenda, and not just rely on traditional training.’

The report is a clear call for action: finance teams must embrace new technologies, develop critical skills in digital, data, and sustainability, and uphold the highest ethical standards to ensure they remain integral to their organisations’ success in the years to come.

Read the report online.

ICAP Awards Pak-Qatar Group Accreditation as an Approved Training Organization outside Practice (TOoP)

                 

Pak-Qatar Group (PQG), Pakistan’s premier and pioneering Islamic financial services group, proudly announces its recent accreditation by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) as an Approved Training Organization Outside Practice (TOoP). This prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone in PQG’s ongoing commitment to nurturing and developing Chartered Accountancy professionals.

The official accreditation ceremony was graced by senior officials from both organizations, including Mr. Farrukh V. Junaidy and Mr. Muhammad Kamran Saleem, Board Members of Pak-Qatar Group, and Mr. Farrukh Rehman, President of ICAP. The event underscored the importance of this partnership in advancing the accounting profession within Pakistan.

Mr. Farrukh Rehman, President of ICAP, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, "ICAP is delighted to partner with Pak-Qatar Group in offering a comprehensive Chartered Accountancy Training Program. Our objective is to ensure that future chartered accountants are thoroughly prepared to meet the evolving challenges of the industry. Pak-Qatar Group’s designation as a Training Organization Outside Practice reflects their unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards in training and professional development."

Expressing his enthusiasm, Mr. Muhammad Kamran Saleem, Director of Pak-Qatar Group, said, "We are honored to be recognized as an accredited Training Organization Outside Practice by ICAP. This accreditation is a testament to our dedication to fostering professional growth and excellence in accountancy. Our collaboration with ICAP represents a shared vision of empowering aspiring CA professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers."

The Chartered Accountancy Training Program is designed to provide hands-on training and real-world experience to emerging chartered accountants. By equipping them with essential practical skills and strategic insights, the program aligns with ICAP’s mission to enhance the quality and impact of accounting education and training in Pakistan.