Economy
New PM and reforms Agenda
Pakistan needs all-out fundamental structural reforms in all areas of governance. However, the most important and immediate is political stability — the main challenge faced by the 23rd Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
Before taking the oath, after elected with 174 votes of members of the National Assembly, he made a number of pledges, reported amongst others by Associated Press of Pakistan. These measures were more in the nature of fire-fighting than fundamental structural reforms. In this article, an attempt is made to highlight some key areas requiring immediate attention.
The best way to bring about transparency in public finance and uproot financial crimes is establishment of a central anti-crime agency as highlighted in Uprooting corruption: Lessons from China, Global Village Space, May 12, 2021. Political parties must get rid of tax evaders and those living beyond means in their ranks and files.
Parties should also get rid of cultism—one man controlling the entire party. Once elected as the Prime Minister he/she should not head the party. So far no political party is adhering to the basic norm of democracy that is separation of party control and running state affairs. The party should make the government accountable.
In utter violation of the Constitution, no party is holding elections as elsewhere in the world where bona fide democracy exists. This is the main area where we need to focus before talking of economic revival. Authoritarianism is apparent in our political culture.
No one should be indispensible. Individuals come and go—what matters is welfare of masses, effective functioning of institutions and enforcement of rule of law. Democratisation of political parties, accountability of all and supremacy of the Constitution alone can strengthen democracy—this is also necessary to check external institutional influence and control of party by those having money power.
It is time to reform all institutions and ensure economic progress of Pakistan for which a detailed roadmap is given in Friend for all seasons, Narratives, May 8, 2021 explaining what we can learn from our most trusted friend China while celebrating 70 years of cherished relations and the importance of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The recent article by Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, Fixing the economy and CPEC, The News, April 11, 2022, gives many pragmatic solutions for fixing the economy as well as CPEC and the following paragraph is worth quoting:
“In the conclusion, ruling elite, new government and parties will have to work on four areas, which is pre-requisite to make the CPEC cooperation a success. First, the ruling elite will have to put the house in order and political elite will have to come of out mentality of self-greatness. Second, government will have to devise SEZs policy and cooperate agriculture policy immediately.
Third, there should be no political games or point scoring to present itself champion of China-Pakistan brotherhood. As China does not care about parties or individuals, China only cares about State of Pakistan and People of Pakistan. Especially PMLN and PPPP will have to learn this and they must avoid self-projection on this front”.
The salient points for consideration of all political parties and national debate to evolve National Reforms Agenda, beyond party affiliations, before next elections can be:
- Creating new province — South Punjab Province — for which constitutional amendment bill is already lying in National Assembly, filed on March 24, 2022.
- Making Karachi federal territory to ensure that it gets due funds and best administration.
- Carrying out fundamental reforms in the justice system and in administrative/governance apparatuses to eliminate the causes of litigation. Ensuring efficacy and accountability of all institutions.
- Revamping of education system to end ignorance and illiteracy, and make people skilful rather than distributing paper degrees and diplomas. Focal point of education should be creating a society that is tolerant, disciplined, courteous and knowledgeable — capable of making innovations and technological advances.
- Holding direct elections of Senate and giving it powers to vote on Money Bill.
- Decentralising political, administrative and financial responsibility to local governments. Education, health, housing, local policing, and all civil amenities should be provided through elected representatives of the local governments that should have powers to raise taxes for these purposes.
- Digitizing, enforcing transparency and accountability in the governments at all levels to enable citizens to understand and participating fully in the process of national integration.
- Reforming civil services, ensuring fair deal for employees with effective and across the board accountability.
- Eliminating terrorism, sectarianism, bigotry, intolerance and violence through enforcement of law and by taking concrete measures to ensure social development of society based on higher values of life and humanity.
- Implementing strict laws to curb terrorist financing, money laundering, plundering of national wealth, political write off of loans and leakages in revenue collections.
- Devising long-term and short-term strategies to break the shackles of debt-trap, making Pakistan a self-reliant economy and ensuring social security and economic justice for all citizens.
- Reforming and strengthening of management of public finances. Transparent public sector spending coupled with efficient performance.
- Controlling wasteful, non-developmental expenditure.
- Reforming of technical, institutional and organizational dimensions of public finance.
- Ensuring good governance and corruption free administrative and judicial structures.
- Federal government should only collect income tax and customs duty. Harmonised sales tax on goods and services should be in the provincial domain. All federal, provincial and local taxes should be collected through one agency (National Tax Authority) which should also disburse pensions and other social security payments to all citizens.
- Reducing excessive marginal tax rates making them compatible with other tax jurisdictions of the world, especially in Asia. Substantially reducing corporate rate of tax. Eliminating onerous taxes and other regulations for corporate sector that are main stumbling blocks for domestic and foreign investments. Simplifying tax laws and procedures.
Dr Nadeem Ul Haque, Vice Chancellor of PIDE, in How Pakistan Became an Asian Tiger by 2050 has offered an optimistic, futuristic and realistic perspective for a prosperous Pakistan. Unfortunately, this work has yet not been given the attention it deserves by policymakers, legislators, academicians, businessmen and administrators.
Our politicians, administrators, intelligentsia and entrepreneurs keep on complaining about multiple and complex challenges faced by Pakistan but seldom strive to implement even the available and workable solutions by local experts. We want IMF, World Bank and others to reform us. This is our real tragedy and dilemma.
We must appreciate and implement the indigenous research-based solutions after debate in public and in national and provincial assemblies and Senate. The Standing and Special Committees should invite (through virtual platforms if needed) experts for assisting and there should be live telecast so that public learns the process of legislation for beneficial reforms.
Via BR
Startups
X Empire: The Biggest Crypto Launch in September 2024 – Key Details on Listing, Price, and Airdrop Updates
The cryptocurrency landscape is set to heat up with the upcoming launch of X Empire, anticipated to be the biggest crypto event in September 2024. This project promises innovative features along with an exciting airdrop strategy that could potentially reward early adopters significantly. Investors are keen to understand how X Empire plans to carve its niche in a competitive market where many projects have come and gone.
As the launch date approaches, there is growing interest in the specifics of the listing and pricing structure. Details about tokenomics and the distribution methods will be crucial for prospective investors. Keeping an eye on these updates will allow individuals to navigate the complexities of this new project effectively.
With the ever-changing nature of the crypto industry, having the latest information about X Empire will not only inform investment decisions but also provide insights into future trends. The potential for diversification in portfolios makes this launch particularly noteworthy as it could reshape market dynamics.
X Empire Launch Details
The launch of X Empire in September 2024 marks a significant event in the cryptocurrency landscape. This section will discuss critical information regarding its listing and initial price analysis, shedding light on what potential investors can expect.
Listing Information
X Empire is set to be listed on major cryptocurrency exchanges, enhancing its visibility and accessibility. Key platforms include Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken, which are known for their robust trading ecosystems.
The official listing date is scheduled for September 15, 2024. Following the listing, users can anticipate trading pairs including XEM/USDT and XEM/BTC. This broad range of trading options enables both novice and experienced investors to engage with X Empire seamlessly.
Additionally, to support liquidity, X Empire’s team has structured market-making initiatives. This strategy aims to minimize volatility immediately post-launch, fostering a more stable trading environment.
Initial Price Analysis
The initial price target for X Empire has been set at approximately $1.50. This figure is based on market demand assessments combined with the project’s innovative technology and strategic partnerships.
Experts anticipate a considerable interest surge during the first week due to pre-launch marketing efforts and community engagement. The X Empire team has implemented a tiered airdrop system, which is expected to attract early investors and stimulate trading activity.
Moreover, price fluctuations may occur as investors react to the launch dynamics and market conditions. Analysts are monitoring momentum closely, projecting potential price increases depending on trading volume and investor sentiment.
Airdrop Insights
The airdrop associated with X Empire promises to deliver significant benefits to eligible participants. Understanding the criteria for eligibility, the claiming process, and the distribution schedule is essential for those looking to take advantage of this opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the X Empire airdrop, participants must adhere to specific criteria. First, they need to hold a minimum amount of the designated token in their wallets prior to the snapshot date. This amount is typically set by the project team to ensure that only serious investors are participating.
Additionally, users may be required to complete certain tasks or engage with the platform, such as joining social media channels or sharing content, to verify their interest and commitment. Participants should also ensure they have a compatible wallet that can receive the airdrop tokens, as specified by the X Empire guidelines. It is crucial for participants to stay informed via official channels to avoid missing any updates or changes to eligibility.
Claiming Process
Claiming the airdrop tokens will involve a few straightforward steps. Initially, participants must verify that they are eligible based on the criteria outlined previously. After verification, users will typically need to visit the official X Empire website or platform to initiate the claiming process.
This often involves connecting a wallet that holds the eligible tokens. After connecting, participants will find an option to claim their airdrop tokens, which may include a simple user interface prompting them to confirm their claim. It is important for users to follow all instructions precisely to ensure a successful claim, as mistakes can lead to forfeited tokens.
Distribution Schedule
The distribution schedule for the X Empire airdrop is critical for participants to understand. Typically, the airdrop will be executed in phases. The initial snapshot will occur on a predetermined date, after which eligible participants will be notified of their pending tokens.
Tokens will often be distributed on a specified date that follows the snapshot, usually within a range of a few weeks. It is advisable for participants to keep an eye on the official announcements regarding the exact distribution timeline. Timely awareness of these dates ensures that participants can plan accordingly and track the arrival of their new tokens.
crypto
Hamster Kombat’s Highly Anticipated Listing and Airdrop: A Game-Changer in the Crypto World
The crypto community is buzzing with excitement as the much-anticipated Hamster Kombat (HMSTR) token is set to be listed on major exchanges on September 26, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone for the play-to-earn (P2E) game, which has captivated the hearts of many with its unique blend of strategy, NFT ownership, and rewards-based combat.
The Journey to September 26
Originally scheduled for late July, the Hamster Kombat token launch and airdrop faced delays, much to the dismay of its eager fanbase. However, the wait is finally over, and the new date has only heightened the anticipation. The project has managed to maintain a strong following, with over 87 million active users eagerly awaiting the airdrop¹².
Major Listings and Speculations
The HMSTR token will be listed on several prominent exchanges, including OKX and Bybit³⁴. This has sparked optimism among traders and investors, with many speculating that Binance might also extend support to Hamster Kombat in the near future⁴. The listing on these major platforms is expected to provide significant liquidity and trading opportunities for the token, further boosting its popularity.
The Buzz Around the Airdrop
The airdrop is touted as one of the largest in the history of Telegram-based P2E games, with over 1 billion HMSTR tokens set to be distributed⁵. Players have been accumulating airdrop points through their in-game activities, which will determine their share of the tokens. This innovative approach has kept the community engaged and excited about the upcoming distribution.
What to Expect Post-Launch
Post-launch, Hamster Kombat plans to introduce several new features and updates to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. These include new battle arenas, additional hamster NFTs with unique attributes, and enhanced community engagement through tournaments and leaderboards⁵. The development team is also exploring potential partnerships and collaborations to expand the Hamster Kombat ecosystem.
Conclusion
The upcoming listing and airdrop of the HMSTR token on September 26 is set to be a landmark event in the crypto world. With major exchanges on board and a dedicated community of players, Hamster Kombat is poised to make a significant impact. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a P2E enthusiast, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Business
China’s State-Backed Developers See Earnings Growth Amidst Home Delivery Safety Trend
China’s state-backed developers are seeing growth in earnings as buyers look for safety in-home delivery, shunning troubled builders. According to report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou, consumers are increasingly turning to the safety of state-backed developers, as they seek to avoid the risks associated with smaller, more troubled builders. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years, as buyers become increasingly cautious in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty.
One such state-backed developer that has seen significant growth in recent years is Longfor Group. However, the company issued a warning this month, saying that net profit is likely to have declined by 45 per cent to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023. Despite this setback, Longfor Group remains one of the largest and most successful state-backed developers in China and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
Overall, the trend towards state-backed developers is likely to continue in the coming years, as buyers seek safety and security in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty. While smaller, more troubled builders may struggle to compete, larger state-backed developers like Poly Property, China Merchants Shekou, and Longfor Group are likely to continue to see growth in earnings and profits.
Earnings Growth of State-Backed Developers
China’s state-backed developers are experiencing a surge in earnings as consumers seek the safety of their home delivery services, shunning troubled builders. The report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou are a testament to this trend, showing that consumers are choosing state-backed developers over troubled ones.
Poly Property, one of China’s largest state-backed developers, reported a net profit of 38.7 billion yuan ($5.6 billion) in 2023, up 35% year-on-year. This growth can be attributed to the company’s focus on high-quality development and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Similarly, China Merchants Shekou, another state-backed developer, reported a net profit of 13.3 billion yuan ($1.9 billion) in 2023, up 26% year-on-year. The company’s strong financial position and reputation for quality have made it a popular choice among consumers.
In contrast, Longfor Group issued a warning this month, stating that its net profit is expected to decline by 45% to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023. This decline can be attributed to the company’s heavy reliance on the property market and its inability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Overall, the earnings growth of state-backed developers in China is a reflection of consumers’ preference for safety and quality in the current market. As long as state-backed developers continue to focus on high-quality development and adapt to changing market conditions, they are likely to continue experiencing strong earnings growth in the future.
Consumer Confidence in Home Delivery
Chinese consumers are increasingly seeking the safety and security of state-backed developers when it comes to purchasing homes. This trend has been reflected in the recent report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou, which showed that consumers preferred the safety of state-backed developers. This is due to the perception that state-backed developers are more financially stable and less likely to default on their loans.
The recent warning from Longfor Group, which stated that net profit probably decline by 45 per cent to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023, has also contributed to the growing consumer confidence in state-backed developers. Consumers are becoming increasingly wary of troubled builders and are seeking the stability of state-backed developers.
As a result of this trend, state-backed developers such as Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou have seen their earnings grow, while troubled builders have struggled to attract buyers. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years as consumers prioritize safety and security in their home purchases.
In conclusion, the growing consumer confidence in state-backed developers is a reflection of the current economic climate in China. Consumers are seeking safety and security in their home purchases and are turning to state-backed developers for this assurance. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years and will have a significant impact on the Chinese real estate market.
Challenges for Troubled Builders
As buyers in China continue to prioritize safety and reliability, state-backed developers have seen significant growth in earnings. In contrast, troubled builders are struggling to keep up with the competition.
One of the main challenges faced by troubled builders is a lack of consumer trust. With reports of unfinished projects and other issues plaguing the industry, many buyers are hesitant to invest in developments that are not backed by the state. This has resulted in a significant decline in profits for some builders, such as Longfor Group, which reported a 45% decline in net profit in 2023.
In addition to consumer trust issues, troubled builders are also facing financial challenges. Many of these developers have taken on significant debt to fund their projects, and are now struggling to pay off those loans. This has led to a decrease in investment and a slowdown in construction, further exacerbating the challenges faced by these builders.
Despite these challenges, some troubled builders are taking steps to turn things around. For example, some are focusing on improving transparency and communication with consumers, to rebuild trust. Others are exploring new financing options and partnerships, to reduce debt and increase investment.
Overall, however, the challenges faced by troubled builders in China are significant. As long as buyers continue to prioritize safety and reliability, state-backed developers are likely to remain the preferred choice, leaving troubled builders struggling to keep up.
Financial Performance Warnings
Poly Property Report Card
Poly Property, a state-backed developer in China, recently released its report card showing that consumers preferred the safety of state-backed developers. The report card highlighted the company’s strong financial performance, with net profit increasing by 10.8% to 12.3 billion yuan in 2023. The company’s total revenue also increased by 17.6% to 98.9 billion yuan in the same period.
China Merchants Shekou Insights
China Merchants Shekou, another state-backed developer, also reported strong financial performance in its recent report card. The company’s net profit increased by 17.3% to 10.9 billion yuan in 2023, while its total revenue increased by 14.8% to 73.5 billion yuan in the same period. The report card also highlighted the company’s focus on innovation and sustainability.
Longfor Group Profit Decline
Longfor Group, on the other hand, issued a warning this month, saying that its net profit probably declined by 45% to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023. The company attributed the decline to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the tightening of government regulations on the property market. Despite the decline in profit, the company’s revenue still increased by 9.5% to 143.7 billion yuan in the same period.
Overall, the report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou show that consumers in China prefer the safety of state-backed developers, while troubled builders are being shunned. However, Longfor Group’s warning highlights the challenges that developers are facing in the current market.
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