Latest news with #14thAugust
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Intra-day update: rupee maintains upward momentum against US dollar
The Pakistani rupee maintained its upward momentum against the US dollar, appreciating 0.13% during the opening hours of trading in the inter-bank market on Friday. At 10am, the currency was hovering at 281.85, a gain of Re0.37. On Wednesday, the rupee had closed at 282.22. The inter-bank was closed on Thursday on account of the 14th August holiday. The local currency has maintained a positive trajectory against the greenback in recent days on account of improved sentiment in the currency market amid an ongoing crackdown by law enforcement agencies against illegal currency dealers and smugglers. Internationally, the US dollar held on to previous session gains on Friday after hotter-than-expected inflation data prompted traders to trim wagers on rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve. The euro and sterling were steady against the dollar after falling 0.5% and 0.3% on Thursday, respectively, while the Japanese yen rose 0.3% to 147.395 following stronger-than-expected GDP data for the second quarter. Overnight, markets had to contend with US producer prices showing the quickest rise in three years in July amid a surge in the costs of goods and services, pointing to a broad pick up in inflationary pressures, which analysts say could pose a dilemma for the Fed. The hot measure of producer price inflation followed a comforting consumer inflation outcome earlier in the week, which had boosted expectations of policy easing in the world's largest economy and helped lift risk assets across the board. Odds of a 25-basis-point cut by the US central bank retreated slightly after the producer price figures, per CME's FedWatch tool. Oil prices, a key indicator of currency parity, nudged higher on Friday to fresh one-week highs after US President Donald Trump warned of 'consequences' if Russia blocked a Ukraine peace deal, injecting concerns about supply. Sentiment was also boosted by strong economic data out of Japan, which is among the largest global crude importers. Brent crude futures gained 16 cents, or 0.2%, to $67.00 a barrel by (0017 GMT). US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were up 14 cents, also 0.2%, to $64.10. This is an intra-day update
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Showbiz shines in green and white
On Pakistan's 78th Independence Day, the country's entertainment industry joined the nation in a vibrant display of patriotism, unity, and hope. Clad in the national colours of green and white, many prominent personalities from television, film, and music took to social media to share their sentiments, combining heartfelt messages with powerful imagery of the country's flag and symbols. The celebrations were not only marked by festivity but also underscored a sober recognition of the challenges Pakistan continues to face, including poverty, unemployment, and security concerns. Yet, the overall tone remained one of resilience, with celebrities using their platforms to inspire optimism for a stronger and more prosperous future. Actors, singers, and influencers posted photos and videos from a variety of settings — from toddlers performing national songs in classrooms to homes adorned with flags. The images and words reflected pride in Pakistan's history and a shared determination to contribute to its progress. Among the well-known figures who shared their Independence Day messages were Muneeb Butt, Momina Iqbal, Maryam Nafees, Mishi Khan, Feroze Khan, Hiba Bukhari, and Ahsan Khan. Their posts resonated with thousands of followers, blending patriotic passion with calls for unity. Actress Areeba Habib hoisted the national flag outside her home and posted a photograph to mark the occasion, captioned, "Happy 78th Independence Day" alongside a Pakistan flag emoji. Actor Sana Faysal, in her note, reflected on her childhood joy during 14th August celebrations while voicing concern over the country's recent struggles. She wrote, "Until I see that old, strong, prosperous Pakistan, I can't celebrate with the same spirit. This year, my prayer is my celebration." Humayun Saeed, star of Punjab Nahi Jaungi and The Crown, appeared alongside Samina Humayun Saeed, both dressed in green and white. Singer and actor Ali Zafar shared a video of schoolgirls performing a patriotic presentation, greeting his followers with "Happy Independence Day everyone!" Actor Danish Taimoor extended his wishes by saying, "Azadi Mubarak," and prayed, "May ALLAH keep Pakistan strong in faith, rich in unity, and endless in prosperity," sharing a post of himself waving the national flag. Actress Ayeza Khan posted a serene photograph taken from her car window with the caption, "May the winds of peace touch every corner of our homeland, may prosperity bloom in every heart." Actress Sonya Hussyn used a video message to rally patriotic energy, telling her followers, "Repeat after me... PAKISTAN ZINDABAD," before adding, "Khuda hamare mulk ko hamesha salamat rakhay. Aamin." Mawra Hocane posted a smiling photograph with the flag, describing Pakistan as her "sweet home" and offering prayers for kindness, prosperity, and compassion Actress Minal Khan marked the day with a photograph alongside her child, captioned simply: "Independence Day celebrations with toddlers." Actress Neelam Muneer summed up her message with the words, "Freedom in our minds, faith in our words, pride in our souls. My Pakistan, my pride," and expressed her wish that the flag "always flies high." Across all these posts, a common theme emerged — love for the homeland, pride in its heritage, and hope for a better future. Whether through personal memories, prayers, or symbolic gestures like waving the flag, these celebrities reflected the spirit of the day in both personal and public ways.
