Economy: MSCI Feb’25 Quarterly Index Review: 2 additions to MSCI Pakistan Index and 3 additions/4 deletions to MSCI FM Small Cap (Pakistan) Index - By Foundation Research

Feb 12 2025


Foundation Securities


  • MSCI, the leading global provider of research-based indexes and analytics, earlier today announced the results of its Feb’25 Frontier Markets Quarterly Index Review. All changes will be implemented from 1st March, 2025.
  • In MSCI Pakistan Index, there have been 2 additions. They are ABOT (Abbott Laboratories Pakistan Limited) and SEARL (The Searle Company Limited).
  • These additions takes the total number of securities in the MSCI Pakistan Index to 23.
Pakistan Economy: May-25 CPI likely at 2.7%, base effect wears off - By JS Research

May 27 2025


JS Global Capital


  • Pakistan's Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to clock in at 2.7% for May-2025. The base effect is now fading, signalling a return to normalized price trends. This is likely to take 11MFY25 average inflation to 4.7%, down from 11MFY24 average of 24.9%.
  • Due to the rapid disinflation during the year, our base case CPI forecast for FY25 averages 4.6%. The rolling 12-month forward CPI estimate stands at around 5.7%.
  • State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reduced policy rate to 11% in the last MPC meeting, owing to rapidly declining inflation. A further rate cut of 50-100bps cannot be ruled out in the near future. SBP is scheduled next to meet on 16th June 2025 for its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.
Pakistan Economy: OPEC’s aggressive output hike puts Pakistan in a sweet spot - By Insight Research

May 26 2025


Insight Securities


  • OPEC+ is expected to announce another output hike of 411 k bbl/day starting July, according to multiple news reports . During the group’s upcoming meeting on June 1st, members are likely to approve a production increase that is three times larger than the previously planned hike of 137 k bbl/day . If materialized, this move could add pressure to already struggling international crude oil prices, which have been weighed down by a weak global economic outlook.
  • Sources close to the group indicate that larger -than -expected output hike may be part of a broader strategy to bring as much as 2 . 2mn bbl/day back into the market by Nov’25 . The decision is widely seen as an effort, particularly by Saudi Arabia to regain lost market share and push high cost producers out of the market . Notably, Saudi Arabia’s market share has been on a declining trend since 2022 , following OPEC+ production cuts that reduced the cartel’s overall share in global oil supply . KSA’s market share declined even faster than the group’s average . The current strategy also appears to target non -compliant OPEC+ members, with Saudi Arabia leveraging its cost advantage to reclaim share from both shale producers and cartel members who are not adhering to quotas . Additionally, experts suggest a geopolitical angle to the move, particularly in the context of U . S . -Saudi relations . The Trump administration is reportedly keen on lower oil prices to curb inflation and restore market confidence especially due to tariff-induced uncertainty . On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is seeking deeper defense cooperation and has recently announced plans to invest US $600bn in US .
  • We believe that Saudi Arabia aims to capture market share from high -cost producers while maintaining some degree of control on prices through monthly OPEC+ meetings, as highlighted in group’s recent press releases . A sharp price decline would not be in KSA’s interest, especially considering its ambitious development plan .
Pakistan Economy: National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) - By AHCML Research

May 26 2025


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • Inflation in May’25 is expected to clock in at 3.0% YoY, up from 0.3% in Apr’25 and down from 11.8% in May’24, as base effects continue to fade. On a monthly basis, CPI is likely to decline by 0.6% MoM, posting the second consecutive drop, mainly due to a 2.3% fall in food prices amid improved supply of perishables. However, poultry shortages are expected to push egg and chicken prices up by 32.8% and 20.7% MoM, respectively.
  • The transport index is expected to decline by 0.7% MoM due to lower fuel prices, while the clothing and footwear index is projected to rise by 1.2% MoM.
  • On a YoY basis, food inflation is anticipated to ease to 0.9%, but non-food inflation is likely to remain elevated, led by healthcare (+12.5%), education (+10.4%), clothing (+9.9%), and restaurants (+8.4%).
Image Pakistan (IMAGE): Corporate Briefing Key Takeaways - By Topline Research

May 23 2025


Topline Securities


  • Topline Securities hosted a Corporate Briefing Session (CBS) for Image Pakistan (IMAGE) today, where senior management discussed the recent financial performance and future outlook of the company.
  • Rs193mn capex was incurred in 9MFY25, and management expects an additional Rs250mn for multi-head embroidery machinery and Rs150mn for store expansions over the next 9 months of CY25.
  • IMAGE currently has 14 outlets, with 4 more in progress (3 new and 1 expansion), bringing the total to 17 physical stores alongside a strong global online presence. Upcoming locations include the expanded Zamzama flagship, Bukhari Commercial in Karachi, F-6 MarkazIslamabad, and Giga Mall Rawalpindi.
Image Pakistan Limited (IMAGE): 3QFY25 Corporate Briefing Takeaways - By Taurus Research

May 23 2025


Taurus Securities


  • IMAGE is a premium fashion retailer specializing in Schiffli embroidery and digital lawn. It operates 14 stores across Pakistan and a growing online platform serving both local and international markets. With subsidiaries in the UK and USA, IMAGE targets the affordable luxury segment, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design for its customers.
  • In 3QFY25, IMAGE reported sales of PKR 1,205 million, relatively unchanged from 3QFY24 sales of PKR 1,204 million. Gross profit margin slightly improved to 45% in 3QFY25 compared to 42% in the same period last year (SPLY). However, net profit after tax (PAT) decreased by 12% to PKR 209Mn in 3QFY25 from PKR 238Mn in the SPLY due to an increase in distribution and selling expenses. EPS stood at PKR 0.91 in 3QFY25 (3QFY24 EPS: PKR 1.81).
  • During 3QFY25, IMAGE expanded its physical presence with three new stores: Multan, Gujrat, and a new outlet at Dolmen Mall Lahore, taking total outlets to 14 nationwide. An additional three outlets (DHA Phase VI Karachi, Giga Mall Rawalpindi, and F-6 Islamabad) are scheduled for launch by the end of CY25, which will bring the total to 17 brick-and-mortar stores. This accelerated rollout indicates management’s confidence in sustained foot traffic recovery and untapped urban demand.
Pakistan Aluminium Beverage Cans Limited (PABC): CY24 & 1QCY25 Corporate Briefing Takeaways - By Taurus Research

May 23 2025


Taurus Securities


  • PABC is the leading manufacturer of beverage cans in Pakistan. The Company is also Pakistan’s first and only manufacturer and exporter of aluminium cans.
  • During CY24, sales revenue increased 17%YoY clocking in at PKR 23Bn. The contribution of the exports to total revenue was around 63% during the year. Export sales increased 53%YoY to PKR 14.4Bn. Gross margin recorded a marginal decrease. Net profit for the year was recorded at PKR 6Bn compared to PKR 5Bn during the SPLY. The net profit margin recorded a marginal increase. As a result, EPS increased to PKR 16.9/sh from PKR 13.9/sh during the SPLY.
  • The Company reported a production of 936Mn cans in CY24, at a capacity utilization of 89%. The production capacity is 1.2Bn cans p.a.
Economy: Pakistan Federal Budget FY26 Preview Fiscal consolidation to continue; Third consecutive year of primary surplus - By Topline Research

May 22 2025


Topline Securities


  • Fiscal consolidation to continue: Pakistan is set to announce Federal Budget FY26 on Jun 02, 2025. We expect this budget to continue fiscal consolidation, focus on IMF guidelines and bring untaxed/low tax areas in tax net. Furthermore, we believe, this Budget FY26 hold high importance from policy point of view as various additional legislative engagements are likely to be undertaken i.e. inclusion of Section 114c, National Tariff Policy, Captive Power Levy Ordinance, removing cap on Debt Servicing Surcharge (DSS) amongst others.
  • Government’s commitment to IMF for FY26 Budget: Government has committed with IMF to continue with fiscal consolidation in FY26 budget to ensure debt sustainability. The government targets primary surplus of 1.6% of GDP (vs. 2.0-2.1% of GDP in FY25), a surplus for third consecutive year after 2 decades. The govt. has also committed to use any windfall dividend expected from central bank over and above 1% of GDP to retire debt.
  • FBR FY26 Tax revenue growth target could be lowest in 6 years: FBR revenue target is expected at Rs14.1-14.3tn, up 16-18% YoY, which will be a lowest % growth in last 6 years. FBR has achieved 5-year revenue CAGR of 25% from FY21-25. We believe, out of this required 16-18% growth, ~12% would be achieved through autonomous growth driven by real GDP growth of 3.6% and inflation of 7.7%. The remaining 4-5% growth translates into additional tax measures of Rs500-600bn, we estimate.
Pakistan Power: Power generation marks highest YoY growth since Apr-2022 - By JS Research

May 22 2025


JS Global Capital


  • As per latest data released by National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), Power generation during Apr-2025 clocked in at 10,513GWh, posting a significant increase of 22% YoY. Cumulatively, power generation during 10MFY25 remained flat with a marginal dip of 0.4% YoY, clocking-in at ~100,661GWh.
  • Average cost of generation for Apr-2025 stood at Rs8.95/kWh, remaining flat YoY. Nevertheless, on a sequential basis, average cost dipped 3%.
  • The sequential decline in generation cost is mainly attributable to higher contribution from Hydel plants in generation which stood at 22% in the energy mix during Apr-2025 compared to 15% during the last month.
Pakistan Power: Power Generation up 25%YoY in Apr'25 - By AKD Research

May 21 2025


AKD Securities


  • Power generation for Apr’25 clocked in at 10,513GWh, marking an increase of 22%YoY/25% MoM. The rise is driven by elevated cooling demand amid rising temperatures and reduced reliance on captive generation by industries. Key contributors to the power mix during the month were Coal, Hydel, RLNG, and Nuclear sources.
  • Notably, authorities imposed a levy of PkR791/mmbtu on gas-based CPPs during Mar'25, raising gas tariff to PkR4,291/mmbtu. This translates into a significantly higher effective generation cost of ~PkR42/kwh, assuming a thermal efficiency of 35% for off-grid captives utilizing natural gas. The sharp increase in generation cost likely prompted industries to shift towards relatively cheaper grid electricity in the near term, in light of recent reductions in grid tariffs, which is estimated at ~PkR28/kwh (excluding taxes and duties).
  • More positively, the cost of generation declined by 5%YoY/8%MoM to PkR8.95/kWh, compared to PkR9.75/kWh in Apr’24, reflecting improved fuel economics. On a cumulative basis, total power generation during 10MFY25 stood at 100,648GWh, broadly unchanged YoY.
Pakistan Cement: Earnings rise on margin gains, lower finance costs - By JS Research

May 21 2025


JS Global Capital


  • We review 3QFY25 performance of the Cement sector with our sample size of 8 companies. Our sample posted a 2.3x YoY surge in earnings during the quarter, driven primarily by margin expansion (+4.1ppt YoY) and dividend income from subsidiaries — MLPL (~Rs5.6bn) for MLCF and LEPCL (~Rs6.0bn) for LUCK. While local cement dispatches witnessed a mild YoY increase of 2%.
  • Margin improvement on YoY basis in 3QFY25 was largely driven by declining coal prices across both North & South regions, cost efficiencies, and higher retention prices. However, margins declined 2.7ppt QoQ, primarily due to a drop in cement prices in the North.
  • Looking ahead, we expect margins to improve, supported by a recovery in cement prices, especially in the North region (up Rs60/bag since Feb-2025), while low international coal prices are likely to continue benefiting companies operating in the South.
AirLink Communication Ltd ((AIRLINK): Innovation unplugged - By Foundation Research

May 27 2025


Foundation Securities


  • We initiate coverage on AirLink Communication Ltd. with an ‘Outperform’ rating and a Dec’25 TP of PKR 273.3/sh, implying a 67.8% upside. AIRLINK has established a strong position in the mobile manufacturing market through the local assembly of prominent brands including Xiaomi, Tecno, and Itel. The company has ambitious plans to expand its product portfolio further by venturing into the manufacturing of laptops, TV’s and EV’s.
  • Our positive outlook on AIRLINK is supported by (1) increasing broadband and smartphone penetration in Pakistan, (2) strategic expansion aided by a 10-year tax holiday, (3) rising market share of low budget smartphones, (4) diversification into laptops and TVs, (5) potential in Xiaomi smartphone exports, and (6) expanding horizons with EV’s. Despite growing competition, the company’s forward looking initiatives position it strongly to capitalize on untapped market opportunities.
  • Increasing broadband and smartphone penetration: Pakistan’s smartphone penetration (31%) is significantly lower than in neighboring India (47%) and other developing countries (avg: 54%) with a GDP per capita close to Pakistan’s. Similarly, smartphone penetration in South-East Asia stood at 79% in 2024, highlighting the gap and growth opportunity in Pakistan. Improved internet access and evolving popularity of social apps coupled with digitalization are likely to keep demand for smartphones robust in the near term.
Pakistan Economy: May-25 CPI likely at 2.7%, base effect wears off - By JS Research

May 27 2025


JS Global Capital


  • Pakistan's Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to clock in at 2.7% for May-2025. The base effect is now fading, signalling a return to normalized price trends. This is likely to take 11MFY25 average inflation to 4.7%, down from 11MFY24 average of 24.9%.
  • Due to the rapid disinflation during the year, our base case CPI forecast for FY25 averages 4.6%. The rolling 12-month forward CPI estimate stands at around 5.7%.
  • State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reduced policy rate to 11% in the last MPC meeting, owing to rapidly declining inflation. A further rate cut of 50-100bps cannot be ruled out in the near future. SBP is scheduled next to meet on 16th June 2025 for its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.
Morning News: IMF in disagreement over key targets, subsidies - By Vector Research

May 27 2025


Vector Securities


  • The Finance Ministry said on Monday that the presentation of the Federal Budget 2025-26 has been delayed from June 2 to June 10 due to disagreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) over key budgetary figures, including subsidy allocations.
  • Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said that the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Iran which stood at $3billion would be taken to $10 billion volume in the next few years, as there was immense potential of growth. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday departed to Iran after concluding his two-day official visit to Turkiye.
  • Despite projected remittance inflows of $38 billion in the current fiscal year (FY25), Pakistan’s per expatriate remittance remains significantly lower than that of peer countries. “Although remittances have grown at a compound annual rate of 6.1 per cent from 2013 to 2023, per expatriate remittance remains low in comparison to other countries in the region,” said a report released by the Policy Research and Advisory Council (PRAC) on Monday.
Morning News: Budget features bold measures for ‘strategic direction - By HMFS Research

May 27 2025


HMFS Research


  • Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday pledged that the upcoming federal budget would introduce “bold measures” to steer the national economy in a strategic direction and make available whatever support is required by the armed forces. Further said that every possible support would be provided to the armed forces, stressing that it was a national need in light of recent cross-border aggression, not just a military requirement. He said the government would ensure simplified tax returns and forms for the salaried class. He said that around 70 to 80 percent of salaried people did not hold equity and fixed-income portfolios. “They receive salaries through bank accounts with tax deducted at source. They should not have to fill in 140-150 data points,” he said, adding that the government aimed to reduce that number to just nine — five for wealth tax and four for income tax. He said the process would now be accelerated, with transactions involving Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), three power distribution companies and some financial institutions expected to reach completion by the end of this year.
  • The Finance Ministry said on Monday that the presentation of the Federal Budget 2025-26 has been delayed from June 2 to June 10 due to disagreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) over key budgetary figures, including subsidy allocations. “The budget announcement has been delayed by a week because the Finance Ministry’s figures are still under reconciliation. The IMF has placed a cap on subsidies,” he added. He further noted that the IMF has declined to make any changes to the revised budget figures recently presented to the Fund’s team.
  • The government is seriously considering reducing federal excise duty (FED) on beverages (aerated water) in the coming budget (2025-26) to attract foreign investment in this sector. Foreign investors including Turkish investors have promised more foreign direct investment in beverage sector in case of tax relief in the coming budget (2025-26). Leading global players with Turkish and Korean franchise investors have invested over USD 2 billion in Pakistan since 2018. However, no new investments have been made since 2023 due to the current fiscal environment. The industry contributes over Rs 175 billion in taxes annually (FED, GST, income tax, super tax) - one of the highest taxed sectors.
K-Electric (KEL): Transmission and Distribution Tariff Unveiled All three businesses now will get USD tariff - By Topline Research

May 26 2025


Topline Securities


  • In Seven months after securing dollarized tariff for generation business, the K-Electric (KEL) has also secured dollarized tariff for its transmission and distribution business for 7 years, i.e. from FY24 to FY30.
  • Distribution Business awarded USD ROE of 14%: NEPRA has awarded USD IRR of 14% to KEL for distribution business against requested USD IRR of 16.67%. The USD IRR of 14% translates into PKR ROE of 25.6% for Y1 (i.e. FY24). Which is better than previous tariff PKR return of 16.67%.
  • Transmission Business awarded USD ROE of 12%: NEPRA has awarded USD IRR of 12% to KEL for transmission business against requested USD IRR of 15%. The USD IRR of 12% translates into PKR ROE of 21.4% for Y1 (i.e. FY24). Which is better than previous tariff PKR return of 15%
Market Wrap: Highlights of the day May 26, 2025 - By JS Research

May 26 2025


JS Global Capital


  • The KSE-100 Index fell 0.8% to an intraday low of 118,150, as investor sentiment weakened due to the government's delay in presenting the federal budget and ongoing uncertainty surrounding IMF fiscal targets. The postponement of Budget 2025–26 and unresolved negotiations with the IMF are driving the risk-off behavior. Market direction remains contingent on clarity from upcoming IMF discussions and the budget announcement; volatility is likely to persist until fiscal policy details are finalized.
Pakistan Economy: OPEC’s aggressive output hike puts Pakistan in a sweet spot - By Insight Research

May 26 2025


Insight Securities


  • OPEC+ is expected to announce another output hike of 411 k bbl/day starting July, according to multiple news reports . During the group’s upcoming meeting on June 1st, members are likely to approve a production increase that is three times larger than the previously planned hike of 137 k bbl/day . If materialized, this move could add pressure to already struggling international crude oil prices, which have been weighed down by a weak global economic outlook.
  • Sources close to the group indicate that larger -than -expected output hike may be part of a broader strategy to bring as much as 2 . 2mn bbl/day back into the market by Nov’25 . The decision is widely seen as an effort, particularly by Saudi Arabia to regain lost market share and push high cost producers out of the market . Notably, Saudi Arabia’s market share has been on a declining trend since 2022 , following OPEC+ production cuts that reduced the cartel’s overall share in global oil supply . KSA’s market share declined even faster than the group’s average . The current strategy also appears to target non -compliant OPEC+ members, with Saudi Arabia leveraging its cost advantage to reclaim share from both shale producers and cartel members who are not adhering to quotas . Additionally, experts suggest a geopolitical angle to the move, particularly in the context of U . S . -Saudi relations . The Trump administration is reportedly keen on lower oil prices to curb inflation and restore market confidence especially due to tariff-induced uncertainty . On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is seeking deeper defense cooperation and has recently announced plans to invest US $600bn in US .
  • We believe that Saudi Arabia aims to capture market share from high -cost producers while maintaining some degree of control on prices through monthly OPEC+ meetings, as highlighted in group’s recent press releases . A sharp price decline would not be in KSA’s interest, especially considering its ambitious development plan .
Pakistan Economy: National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) - By AHCML Research

May 26 2025


Al Habib Capital Markets


  • Inflation in May’25 is expected to clock in at 3.0% YoY, up from 0.3% in Apr’25 and down from 11.8% in May’24, as base effects continue to fade. On a monthly basis, CPI is likely to decline by 0.6% MoM, posting the second consecutive drop, mainly due to a 2.3% fall in food prices amid improved supply of perishables. However, poultry shortages are expected to push egg and chicken prices up by 32.8% and 20.7% MoM, respectively.
  • The transport index is expected to decline by 0.7% MoM due to lower fuel prices, while the clothing and footwear index is projected to rise by 1.2% MoM.
  • On a YoY basis, food inflation is anticipated to ease to 0.9%, but non-food inflation is likely to remain elevated, led by healthcare (+12.5%), education (+10.4%), clothing (+9.9%), and restaurants (+8.4%).
K-Electric (KEL): NEPRA approves Multi-Year T&D Tariff for K-Electric - By Taurus Research

May 26 2025


Taurus Securities


  • NEPRA has approved Multi-Year Tariff for Transmission & Distribution (T&D) network segments of K-Electric for FY24- FY30. Salient features of the multi-year tariff approved by NEPRA are as follows:
  • Control Period: 7 Years, from FY24- FY30.
  • Allowed Debt-to-Equity Ratio: 70:30.
Pak Aluminium Beverage Cans Ltd (PABC): Exports outlook gets weaker; Reiterate Sell - By JS Research

May 26 2025


JS Global Capital


  • We tweak down our CY25E/CY26E EPS estimates for Pak Aluminium Beverage Cans Ltd (PABC) by 9% and TP by 4%. The revision is mainly led by the expected fall in volumes led by border issues with Afghanistan coupled with the upcoming capacity expansions in Central Asia, which may adversely impact PABC’s export prospects to the region. We reiterate our Underperform rating for the stock with a TP of Rs110.
  • Furthermore, any reduction in regulatory duty in the upcoming budget (from 22%-26% currently to 15% or less) given to the local industry, may create pressure on sales volumes from dumping of cheaper products in the country.
  • We consider resumption of dividend payout and announcement of any Capex or investment plan as key triggers for the stock going forward. To highlight, PABC stands at net cash position of Rs10.7bn (Mar-2025).
AirLink Communication Ltd ((AIRLINK): Innovation unplugged - By Foundation Research

May 27 2025


Foundation Securities


  • We initiate coverage on AirLink Communication Ltd. with an ‘Outperform’ rating and a Dec’25 TP of PKR 273.3/sh, implying a 67.8% upside. AIRLINK has established a strong position in the mobile manufacturing market through the local assembly of prominent brands including Xiaomi, Tecno, and Itel. The company has ambitious plans to expand its product portfolio further by venturing into the manufacturing of laptops, TV’s and EV’s.
  • Our positive outlook on AIRLINK is supported by (1) increasing broadband and smartphone penetration in Pakistan, (2) strategic expansion aided by a 10-year tax holiday, (3) rising market share of low budget smartphones, (4) diversification into laptops and TVs, (5) potential in Xiaomi smartphone exports, and (6) expanding horizons with EV’s. Despite growing competition, the company’s forward looking initiatives position it strongly to capitalize on untapped market opportunities.
  • Increasing broadband and smartphone penetration: Pakistan’s smartphone penetration (31%) is significantly lower than in neighboring India (47%) and other developing countries (avg: 54%) with a GDP per capita close to Pakistan’s. Similarly, smartphone penetration in South-East Asia stood at 79% in 2024, highlighting the gap and growth opportunity in Pakistan. Improved internet access and evolving popularity of social apps coupled with digitalization are likely to keep demand for smartphones robust in the near term.
Pakistan Fertilizer: Recovery still far away - By Foundation Research

May 15 2025


Foundation Securities


  • The dry spell continues for the Fertilizer sector with urea dispatches recorded at only 1,350KT (↓37% YoY) in 4MCY25. Fertilizer offtake continued with its sluggish trend fueled by Govt’s decision to abolish support prices that has severely impacted farmer income. In Apr’25, Urea sales recorded a decline of 24/18% YoY/MoM to only 251KT, a five-year low. Company wise analysis reveals that FFC urea offtake declined 52/42% MoM/YoY to 108KT in Apr’25, whereas EFERT/FATIMA recorded an incline of 7/56% YoY and 38/14% MoM to 81/42KT, respectively. AGL urea offtake dwindled 17% MoM but picked up 11.2x YoY to reach 20KT in Apr’25. Industry DAP offtake jumped 3/96% YoY/MoM in Apr’25 to 95KT. FFC/EFERT DAP offtake declined/inclined 34%/3.1x YoY and surged 2.0/3.8x MoM to 54/31KT, respectively.
  • Fertilizer sales remained lethargic in Apr’25: Pakistan domestic Urea offtake declined by 24/18% YoY/MoM in Apr’25, reaching 251KT. DAP offtake increased 3/96% YoY/MoM to 95KT. NP offtake remained jumped 46/31% YoY/MoM in Apr’25 to 71KT, while CAN offtake increased 28/15% YoY/MoM to 45KT. In Apr’25, industry urea inventory levels increased drastically to 1,104KT, a five year high, due to sluggish demand amid weak crop pricing. Similarly, DAP inventory has reached 204KT. Company-wise urea inventory was recorded at 292/487/279/46KT for FFC/EFERT/FATIMA/AGL, respectively, in Apr’25. DAP inventory of FFC/EFERT reached 129/32KT.
  • EFERT offtake picked up: EFERT/FATIMA urea offtake inclined 7/56% YoY, respectively, to reach 81/42KT, in Apr’25. We attribute this incline to the seasonality factor and company incentives to clear inventory. AGL urea offtake showed a massive jump of 11.2x YoY, due to low-base effect. Where the whole industry has undergone a jump in offtake, FFC experienced a decline in Urea dispatches to the tune of 52/42% YoY/MoM to reach 108KT
Oil Marketing Companies: Fuel demand picks up further - By Foundation Research

May 5 2025


Foundation Securities


  • POL sales surged 32% YoY (↑20% MoM) to 1.5mn tons during the month of Apr’25 driven by the low base effect and pickup in economic activities amid reduced pilferage of Iranian fuel. Product-wise breakdown reveals that MS/HSD sales enhanced 24/33% YoY during Apr’25 whereas FO sales grew 182% YoY. Company-wise analysis depicts that PSO/APL/WAFI/HASCOL volumes expanded 12/28/23/76% YoY during the month. Total sales during 10MFY25 settled at 13.2mn tons, up 6% YoY.
  • White oil: Domestic petroleum sales (ex-non Energy) improved 32% YoY in Apr’25 while white oil sales increased 28% YoY. Sequentially, volumes went up 20%. Productwise analysis reveals that MS/HSD sales clocked-in at 660/622K tons, up 24/33% YoY (↑14/28% MoM) while prices of MS/HSD remained stable MoM. This takes 10MFY25 sales of MS/HSD to 6.2/5.6mn tons, reflecting growth of 6/11% YoY respectively.
  • In the black oil segment, FO sales shot up 182% YoY to 84K tons during Apr’25. During 10MFY25, FO sales fell 31% YoY amid lower demand from power producers given higher proportion of hydel, nuclear, RLNG, gas and coal power generation.
Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC): 3QFY25 EPS recorded at PKR 11.0/sh, DPS PKR 3.0/sh - By Foundation Research

Apr 30 2025


Foundation Securities


  • Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC PA) earnings in 3QFY25 remained stable at PKR 47.1Bn (EPS PKR 11.0/sh) vs. PKR 47.8Bn (EPS PKR 11.1/sh) during 3QFY24. While in 9MFY25, the profitability clocked-in at PKR 129.6Bn (EPS PKR 30.1/sh), down 24% YoY, against PKR 171.1Bn (EPS PKR 39.8/sh) in the SPLY. The earnings are in-line with our expectation.
  • The result was accompanied by a cash payout of PKR 3.0/sh taking 9M payout to PKR 10.1/sh.
  • The bottom-line in 3QFY25 remained stable despite a 17% YoY decline in gross profit. We attribute this to (1) stable PKR-USD parity, (2) steady other income (↑5% YoY), and (3) effective tax rate of only 30% against 41% in the SPLY which we believe is due to depletion.
Pakistan Oil and Gas: Lower production and softer oil prices to hamper sector profitability in 3Q - By Foundation Research

Apr 24 2025


Foundation Securities


  • We expect E&P sector profitability to decline 11% YoY during 3QFY25. This is attributable to: 1) avg. oil prices tumbling 5% YoY in 3Q, 2) oil/gas avg. production plummeting 12/5% YoY, and 3) stable PKR/USD parity. On a QoQ basis, we expect sector profitability to inch up 4% on the back of improvement in production stats (oil/gas avg. production surge by 1/7% QoQ) and receding exploration costs.
  • Oil and gas industry production receded in 3QFY25 due to forced curtailment: Oil/gas production declined 12/5% YoY in 3Q, this trend has been ongoing for the last 4 quarters mainly due to forced curtailment of local production to facilitate imported RLNG flows. It is pertinent to highlight that pressure of gas supply led to constraints in system capacity forcing domestic oil & gas production to fall. Considering the same and following some resentment from domestic players, the government has delayed some planned shipments.
  • Status of drilling activity: In 9MFY25, a total of 15/23 of exploratory/development wells were spud as against planned 27/40 in the beginning of FY25. Last year, 11/30 exploratory/development wells were spud against 21/35 planned. Improved exploration activity in the E&P’s space symbolizes easing of cash flows along with multiple block auctions.
Pakistan Steel: No change in fortunes - By Foundation Research

Apr 22 2025


Foundation Securities


  • We expect profitability for long steel players to remain unappealing attributable to (1) weak rebar prices, (2) higher delta of graded vs. ungraded steel, and (3) lower utilization.
  • As for flat steel, profitability is anticipated to weaken YoY due to (1) lackluster domestic sales, (2) inflated energy cost, and (3) compressed Int’l HRC-CRC spreads. However, on a quarterly basis the same is expected to increase on account of (1) sequential decline in HRC prices, (2) easing flows from FATA/PATA region, (3) stable local sales volumes, and (4) rise in exports.
  • We expect ISL’s profitability to ↓/↑46/8% YoY/QoQ to PKR 0.88/sh. As for the long steel players, we expect ASTL to report LPS of PKR 1.65/sh in 3QFY25 against LPS of 2.24 in 3QFY24, whereas MUGHAL is forecasted to post an EPS of PKR 1.33/sh, (↑4.3/2.1x YoY/QoQ).
Sazgar Engineering Works Limited (SAZEW): 3QFY25 EPS is recorded at PKR 103.1/sh, DPS PKR 12.0/sh - By Foundation Research

Apr 21 2025


Foundation Securities


  • Sazgar Engineering Works Limited (SAZEW PA) reported profitability of PKR 6.2Bn (EPS PKR 103.1), up 134/159% YoY/QoQ in 3QFY25. This takes 9MFY25 bottom-line to PKR 12.9Bn (EPS PKR 212.7), up 215% YoY. Results is higher than our expectation of PKR 89.2/sh due to higher than anticipated gross margin.
  • The result is accompanied with an interim cash dividend of PKR 12.0/sh in 3QFY25, pulling 9MFY25 pay-out to PKR 32.0/sh. The dividend is lower than our expectation of 18.0/sh given planned expansions which are to be financed completely with internally generated cash.
  • SAZEW posted sales of PKR 36.7Bn (↑83% YoY) in 3QFY25 which were driven by volumetric sales growth and upwelling gross margins. SAZEW’s 4-wheeler sales volume clocked-in at 3,486 units (↑85/80% YoY/QoQ) in 3QFY25, whereas, 3-wheeler sales were 7,170 units, registering a growth of 41/4% YoY/QoQ.
Pakistan Economy: Power sector circular debt resolution plan in the offing - By Foundation Research

Apr 18 2025


Foundation Securities


  • Pakistan's power sector has become a key challenge in the country's macroeconomic balancing act. Stabilizing the economy hinges on resolving power sector issues, which took center stage in recent IMF negotiations for the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility. In a bid to settle the amount in a single go, the government has plans to inject Rs1.5 trillion to tackle the circular debt crisis, clearing overdue liabilities and paving the way for sector stability.
  • Commercial banks will provide nearly Rs1.275 trillion of the bailout package, despite already having significant exposure to the power sector's circular debt. The deal, negotiated between the government and banks, offers below-KIBOR interest rates, potentially saving the government 3-5% on debt servicing costs. Contrary to news flow of banks being pressured into the deal, top banking executives and government officials have assured that the agreement was reached mutually.
  • According to news flow, a term sheet was signed between the government and banks at a large commercial bank in Karachi, with disbursements slated to begin next month. This financial intervention aims to curb the energy crisis and prevent further debt accumulation.
Economy: Rating upgrade: Fitch upgrades Pakistan’s rating to ‘B-’ from ‘CCC+’ - By Foundation Research

Apr 16 2025


Foundation Securities


  • Fitch has upgraded Pakistan’s long term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to ‘B-’ from ‘CCC+’ and has termed the country’s outlook ‘stable’.
  • The ratings agency highlighted key metrics behind the upgrade which included the following:
  • Fitch expressed confidence in Pakistan’s progress on the fiscal front with reduced deficits and implementation of structural reforms. Further, the agency stressed upon tight economic policy that is expected to support build-up of forex reserves and limited external financing needs
Pakistan Automobile: Strong auto sales momentum carried into Mar’25 - By Foundation Research

Apr 11 2025


Foundation Securities


  • In Mar’25, automobile sales grew 18% YoY, however, on a sequential basis volume declined 8% MoM to 11k units due to Ramadan effect. During 9MFY25, sales expanded by a mammoth 46% YoY to over 100k units. This surge can be attributed to declining interest rates, attractive auto financing schemes and promotional offers by both banks and auto assemblers. Player-wise breakdown portrays a notable volumetric surge of 84/87% YoY in INDU/SAZEW, respectively while HCAR recorded a decline of 35% YoY in Mar’25. Total automobile sales clocked in at 13k units (↓ 8/7% YoY/MoM) in Mar’25 whereas 9MFY25 sales were 127,463 units (↑20% YoY).
  • Positive sales growth remains prolific: The automobile sector witnessed a surge in sales during Mar’25 as Jeeps/Vans&LCVs/800/1300cc sales improved by 85/42/6/17% YoY while 1000c sales dropped by a sizeable 71% YoY. During 9MFY25, automobile sales surged 46% YoY to 100,868 units led by growth in INDU, HCAR, Pak Suzuki & SAZEW at 58%, 29%, 41% and 153% YoY, respectively. The healthy volumetric growth is on the back of (1) declining interest rates, (2) attractive auto financing schemes by banks & auto assemblers amid increasing market competition, (3) stable exchange rate and HRC prices, and (4) improving macroeconomic environment
  • INDU: INDU recorded volumes of 3,131 units, up 84% YoY (↑20% MoM) during Mar’25. The surge in sales is driven by a rise in sales of Corolla+Cross+Yaristo 2,378 units, a jump of 54% YoY (↑31% MoM), which we believe is owed to higher Yaris sales. Additionally, Fortuner+Hilux sales climbed 4.8x YoY (↓5% MoM) to 753 units with Hilux being the major contributor. During 9MFY25, sales of Corolla+Cross+Yaris/Fortuner+Hilux swelled 49/90% YoY to 15,980/5,638 units respectively.
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