Economy: IMF Review Underway: Fiscal Discipline and Revenue Challenges in Focus - By IIS Research

Mar 3 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has arrived in Pakistan to conduct an economic review and determine the release of the next $1 billion tranche under the $7 billion loan program, with discussions set to continue until March 15.
  • As of now, there is a PKR 606 billion shortfall in the revenue target. However, we believe this can be largely offset by savings on interest costs, driven by the sharp 1,000 bps reduction in policy rates and a continued decline in government borrowing costs. With market yields already adjusting downward and a shift toward cheaper domestic financing, the government's overall debt servicing burden is easing. This should provide some fiscal space to absorb the revenue gap without requiring aggressive expenditure cuts or additional taxation in the near term.

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Market Wrap: Highlights of the day - By JS Research

May 23 2025


JS Global Capital


  • Dull activity was observed on the last trading day of the week at the PSX, as investors adopted a cautious stance and preferred to stay on the sidelines ahead of the Federal Budget. The benchmark KSE-100 index fluctuated between an intraday high of 119,542 points (+389) and a low of 118,665 points (−487), before closing with a marginal loss of 50 points at 119,102. Trading volumes remained thin throughout the day, with major participation seen in sideboard stocks. Going forward, we expect the market to continue consolidating; hence, investors are advised to wait for dips before taking fresh positions.
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.
Market Wrap: KSE-100 Stays Resilient Amid Budget Uncertainty - By HMFS Research

May 23 2025


HMFS Research


  • The KSE-100 index exhibited a choppy trajectory today as investor sentiment remained cautious ahead of the FY26 budget announcement. Ongoing discussions with the IMF and anticipation of new conditionalities kept market participants on edge, curbing aggressive positions. Still, broader optimism anchored in improving macroeconomic fundamentals— such as expected external financing from the UAE and World Bank, and renewed efforts to enhance trade and exports—offered some stability amidst the turbulence. After hitting an intraday high of +389 points, the index ultimately settled at 119,103, recording a marginal decline of 50 points. Market activity reflected a wait-and-see approach, with muted volumes of 99.8mn shares on the KSE-100 and 337.1mn shares traded overall. Leading the board were BBFL (33mn), WTL (19mn), and DOL (16mn). Going forward, the market is likely to remain sensitive to unfolding budgetary disclosures and IMF-related developments. Nonetheless, a constructive macroeconomic backdrop could provide the necessary support to steer equities toward recovery. Investors are advised to remain vigilant, closely track policy cues, and prioritize fundamentally sound stocks with long-term value potential.
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.
Lalpir Power Limited (LPL): CY24 Corporate Briefing Key Takeaways - By Taurus Research

May 23 2025


Taurus Securities


  • LPL’s Power Purchase Agreement, originally due to expire in Nov’28, was terminated effective Oct 1, 2024, under a Negotiated Settlement Agreement. Receivables up to Sep 30, 2024—including CPP, EPP, and PTI—were cleared by Dec 31, 2024. Delayed payment interest was waived, resulting in significant reversals in the financials. The Company retains ownership of its 350MW oil-fired complex, and no further compensation was provided by the Government. CPPA-G will reimburse the Company for any adverse tax rulings if applicable.
  • Revenue declined 27%YoY to PKR 14.2Bn (CY23: PKR 19.5Bn), reflecting reduced dispatches ahead of PPA expiry. Gross profit fell to PKR 3.55Bn (CY23: PKR 5.6Bn), while PAT sharply dropped to PKR 465Mn from PKR 4.9Bn. This steep decline was primarily driven by non-recurring reversals—including furnace oil inventory written down to net realizable value due to low selling prices and the reversal of interest income due to waived charges under the settlement. EPS declined significantly to PKR 1.22 (CY23: PKR 12.1).
  • LPL reported surplus funds of PKR 9.8Bn as of Dec 31, 2024, ensuring liquidity strength post-PPA. However, Management clarified that it does not plan to distribute excess reserves via dividends in the near term. Instead, the focus is on pursuing high-potential ventures that can deliver superior long-term shareholder value.
Morning News: IMF not too ‘keen’ on relief steps in budget, links them to FBR revenue - By Vector Research

May 23 2025


Vector Securities


  • Signaling its reluctance to grant a major relief to the salaried, property, beverage, and export sectors, the visiting IMF team has linked the FBR’s tax collection target with reduction in expenditures. This is the crux of the ongoing parleys, as the team is going to accomplish its visit on Friday (today). However, the Fund will make an exception for the defence budget, as Islamabad will take an appropriate decision to hike the defence spending in view of the current geopolitical environment.
  • Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met with a delegation from the World Bank, led by Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde, to discuss the Bank’s development investment and cooperation in Pakistan. The prime minister said the government is taking practical steps to maximize benefits from the World Bank’s investment under the Country Partnership Framework. He said the framework is expected to bring more than $20 billion in development financing to Pakistan.
  • Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari met with a delegation led by Anna Bjerde, Managing Director Operations of the World Bank, to discuss Pakistan's ongoing power sector reforms. According to a press statement issued on Thursday, the minister shared plans to launch a competitive electricity market soon, noting that preparatory work is underway. An Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) has been established, and experienced professionals are being appointed. The government will no longer be the sole electricity purchaser.
Morning News: Forex reserves exceed $16bn mark on IMF tranche - By WE Research

May 23 2025



  • Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves rose by $1.034 billion in one week, reaching $16.649 billion as of May 16, 2025, largely due to a $1.023 billion IMF loan tranche under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). This marks the highest level in four months. While the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) reserves increased, commercial banks' reserves dipped slightly by $9 million. The IMF also approved a $1.4 billion Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) to help Pakistan address climate challenges and support growth. The IMF funds are expected to attract further international financial support, with SBP projecting reserves to exceed $14 billion by June 2025.
  • World Bank Managing Director Anna Bjerde praised Pakistan’s recent economic reforms as a “globally recognised model,” crediting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership for driving the transformation. During a high-level meeting in Islamabad, Bjerde highlighted Sharif’s focus on sustainable policies, political unity, and development that prioritizes people. She referred to Pakistan’s Country Partnership Framework as the “Pakistan Model,” citing its successful implementation. Sharif thanked the World Bank for its support, especially following the 2022 floods, and noted the partnership will lead to over $20 billion in development investment. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration.
  • Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with a World Bank delegation led by Managing Director Anna Bjerde to discuss development cooperation and the Country Partnership Framework, which is expected to bring over $20 billion in financing to Pakistan. Sharif emphasized the government’s efforts to fully leverage this investment and thanked the World Bank for its support during the 2022 floods. Bjerde praised Pakistan’s progress on macroeconomic stability and called the partnership a global model, now referred to as the “Pakistan Model.” The meeting reaffirmed strong cooperation between Pakistan and the World Bank, with several senior officials in attendance.
Morning News: WB announces USD 55m in additional funding - By Alpha - Akseer Research

May 23 2025


Alpha Capital


  • Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari met with a delegation led by Anna Bjerde, Managing Director Operations of the World Bank, to discuss Pakistan's ongoing power sector reforms.
  • Pakistan is targeting the export of 125,000 tonnes of mangoes in the current season, with an anticipated revenue of $125 million, the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVA) announced. The export campaign is set to kick off on Sunday (May 25).
  • Honda Atlas Cars Pakistan Limited (HCAR) reported a net profit of Rs2.7 billion (EPS: Rs18.97) for the year ended March 31, 2025, marking a 16 per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase and surpassing industry expectations.
Market Wrap: Highlights of the day - By JS Research

May 22 2025


JS Global Capital


  • The market opened on a positive note on Thursday, with the index gaining 767 points to hit an intraday high of 120,699. However, the momentum faded as investors opted for profit-taking at higher levels, dragging the index down to an intraday low of 119,062 before closing at 119,153, down 778 points. Going forward, range-bound activity is likely to persist ahead of the Federal Budget announcement, and investors are advised to remain cautious."
Fauji Fertilizer Limited (FFC): 1QCY25 Corporate Briefing Takeaway - By IIS Research

May 6 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Fauji Fertilizer Limited (FFC) held its corporate briefing today to discuss the financial results of 1QCY25 and future outlook of the company. Key highlights of the briefing are follows:
  • To recall, in 1QCY25 FFC on standalone basis reported earnings of PKR 13.3bn (EPS: PKR 9 .33), up 26%YoY from PkR10.5bn (EPS: PKR 7.39) in SPLY. Along side the result, FFC announced an interim cash dividend of PKR 7.0/sh.
  • The company noted that growth in the agriculture sector slowed sharply to 1.2% in 1QFY25, down from 8.1% during the SPLY. This deceleration was driven by weaker farm activity and lower overall profitability. Farmers faced a significant decline in net income across key crops, particularly wheat and rice. The impact was further compounded by rising input costs and the transition from support prices to a free market system.
Habib Bank Limited (HBL): Corporate Briefing Takeaways - By IIS Research

May 2 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Habib Bank Limited held its corporate briefing today to discuss the financial results of 1QCY25 and future outlook of the bank. The key takeaways of the briefing are listed below:
  • In 1QCY25, wherein the bank posted consolidated profit of PkR16.6bn (EPS: PkR11.3) for the quarter (up by 9.2%YoY/15% on QoQ). Further, the bank also announced interim cash dividend of PkR4.5/share.
  • Net Interest Income (NII) increased by 14% YoY to PKR58.1bn, driven by PKR454bn growth in average balance sheet. Despite ~1,000 bps KIBOR drop, margin impact remained limited due to only 15bps KIBOR compression. Non-Fund Income (NFI) rose 17% YoY to PKR17.6bn, led by cards, banking fees, and treasury gains. Treasury income was supported by capital gains on fixed income portfolio.
Pakistan Oilfields Limited (POL): EPS Clocked in at PKR23.3 – Inline with Expectations - By IIS Research

Apr 28 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Pakistan Oilfields Limited (POL) has announced its 3QFY25 results, reporting a Profit After Tax (PAT) of PKR 6.6bn (EPS: PKR 23.3/share), down 47% YoY and 13% QoQ. The result is broadly in line with our expectations. However, a few deviations were noted: taxation turned out lower than anticipated, while exploration costs were higher than projected, slightly offsetting operational performance.
  • During 3QFY25, Revenue witnessed decline of 11% YoY, because of drop in hydrocarbon production and lower oil prices. Moreover, operating costs increased by 17% YoY and declined by 7% QoQ.
  • Exploration expenses increased by 3.5x YoY and 2.25x, possibly de to higher seismic activity during the qtr. Other income decreased by 28% YoY and 38% QoQ, due to decline in interest rates. Other charges decreased by 39% YoY and 22% QoQ.
Mari Energies Limited (MARI): Earnings Beat by Lower Than Expected ETR - By IIS Research

Apr 25 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Mari Energies Limited (MARI PA) has announced its 3QFY25 profit of PKR 15.9bn (PKR 13.25/share), up by 13% YoY & 42% on QoQ basis. The result is above our expectations mainly due to lower than anticipated ETR.
  • Revenue fell 5% YoY (up by 10% QoQ) in 3Q, driven by lower oil prices. Royalty rose 2x YoY due to a 15% hike in MARI field charges amid lease extension from Nov’24.
  • Operating expenses declined by 27% YoY and 45% QoQ, mainly because of absence of amortization of dry well costs. Exploration expenses also decreased by 81% YoY and 22% on QoQ basis, mainly because of no dry well during the qtr.
Fatima Fertilizer Company Limited (FATIMA): Earnings Dip 39% QoQ on Lower Offtake - By IIS Research

Apr 25 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • FATIMA announced its 1QCY25 results today. On a consolidated basis, EPS came in at PKR 3.99 (our expectations of PKR 4.21). with Sales declining by 21% YoY and 40% QoQ to PKR 51.96 billion, primarily due to lower Offtakes. Despite this, gross margins remained better at 40% (vs. 42% YoY and 32% QoQ) indicating cost efficiencies as production levels remained largely consistent.
  • Inventory levels remain high, with FATIMA holding 233KT of urea, which accounts for 28% of the total industry stock, as well as 258KT of CAN, a product it produces exclusively within the industry. The overall industry continues to struggle with offtake, primarily due to reduced farm incomes following the shift from a crop support price regime to a free market system, while input costs have remained unchanged.
  • Finance costs rose sharply by 131% YoY, due to higher borrowings. The effective tax rate for the quarter stood at 39%, compared to 49% in the SPLY and 37% in the previous quarter.
Pakistan Economy: CPI expected at 0.8% in April'25 - By IIS Research

Apr 25 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Inflation for Apr’25 is projected at 0.8%, sharply down from 17.3% in SPLY, indicating significant easing in price pressures. On a MoM basis, CPI is expected to decline by 0.29%, reversing the 0.89% increase in Mar’25. This drop is mainly driven by lower prices of Wheat, Eggs, Fresh fruits, Onions, and Tomatoes, leading to a 1.5% MoM decline in overall food inflation. The Housing index is also expected to fall by 0.8% MoM, despite rent adjustments, due to a reduction in the electricity index from negative fuel price adjustments in April.
  • Core inflation is projected to ease to 8.4% from 15.6% in SPLY, with urban core at 7.6% and rural core at 9.5%. The sharp decline is due to the high base effect and improved price stability. However, rural core inflation remains relatively elevated due to persistent challenges like supply chain inefficiencies and higher transportation costs in rural areas.
  • In its last meeting, the SBP maintained the policy rate at 12%, opting to pause after a cumulative 1,000 bps rate cut to evaluate its impact on inflation and overall macroeconomic stability. The MPC flagged persistent risks from elevated core inflation and possible upticks in food and energy prices. Meanwhile, the government raised the PDL by another PKR 8/liter, pushing the total to PKR 78/liter. The IMF has also stressed the need for continued monetary discipline, noting that the full effects of recent rate cuts are yet to be seen. Additionally, with the federal budget due in June, policymakers are likely to monitor its potential inflationary implications closely. Given these factors, we expect a status quo in the upcoming MPC.
Oil & Gas Exploration: Earnings to Dip on Lower Oil Prices and Production - By IIS Research

Apr 24 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • We preview the IIS E&Ps universe, where 3QFY25 earnings are expected to decline by 12.6% YoY, though improve slightly by 1.8% QoQ. The YoY drop is mainly attributed to a 6.5% fall in oil prices, reduced hydrocarbon production, and a rise in MARI’s royalty expense following a lease extension. Revenues are projected to contract by 13.4% YoY (flat QoQ), led by the decline in both oil prices and production volumes. Meanwhile, other income is likely to shrink 20.1% QoQ, driven by lower interest rates.
  • Exploration expenses are expected to decline by 67.8% YoY, mainly due to the absence of dry wells during the quarter and a high base effect stemming from a one-off impairment booked by MARI in the same period last year. On a QoQ basis, exploration costs are also lower. Although OGDC encountered a dry well (Chak 202- 2), it was developmental rather than exploratory, and its cost will be amortized accordingly. Operating expenses are projected to fall by 10% YoY and 15.6% QoQ, largely due to the absence of amortization-related charges recorded by MARI in the previous quarter.1
  • At the company level, we expect YoY earnings declines across most of E&Ps universe. POL’s earnings are projected to drop by 43.1% YoY, owing to a one-off tax allowance in 3QFY24. OGDC & PPL are also likely to post lower earnings, down 10.1% and 9.4% YoY, respectively, on account of weaker oil prices and lower production. MARI’s earnings, however, are expected to remain flat YoY, with the impact of higher royalty charges offset by a lower effective tax rate in base period.
International Steels Limited (ISL): Earnings drop 41% YoY on Lower Sales and Margins - By IIS Research

Apr 24 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • International Steels Limited (ISL) announced its 3QFY25 results today, reporting a PAT of PKR 417 million (EPS: PKR 0.96), compared to PKR 706 million (EPS: PKR 1.63) in the same period last year, down by 41% YoY, mainly due to lower sales and gross margins. However, earnings increased by 18% QoQ.
  • The company’s topline declined by 15% YoY and 24% QoQ to PKR 13.9 billion, primarily due to lower volumetric sales as cheaper imported material in the market made the company less competitive. Additionally, falling product prices further impacted revenue.
  • Gross margins stood at 8.6% in 3QFY25, declining 300 bps YoY due to a contraction in CRC-HRC spread, while improving 50 bps QoQ.
Maple Leaf Cement (MLCF): Earnings beat expectation on lower tax - By IIS Research

Apr 23 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Maple Leaf Cement (MLCF) announced its 3QFY25 results today, where the company posted consolidated PAT of PKR 2.8bn (EPS: PKR 2.64) compared to PKR 1.5bn (EPS: PKR 1.44) in the same period last year, reflecting a 2x YoY increase. This strong performance was driven by improved gross margins and a lower effective tax rate.
  • The company’s topline grew by 4% YoY to PKR 16.6bn, mainly due to higher bag prices. However, revenue declined by 13% QoQ, owing to a 10% drop in total dispatches and a 5% QoQ decline in prices.
  • Gross margins stood at 36% compared to 30% in the same period last year, benefiting from an efficient fuel mix, increased use of alternative fuels and a decline in coal prices. On a QoQ basis, it declined by 400 bps.
Meezan Bank Limited (MEBL): Earnings Down 13% YoY; Dividend Maintained - By IIS Research

Apr 21 2025


Ismail Iqbal Securities


  • Meezan Bank Limited has announced 1QCY25 result, where the bank has posted unconsolidated earnings of PKR 12.28/sh, down by 13% YoY and 8% on QoQ basis. The result is inline with our expectations. The bank has announced interim cash dividend of PKR 7/sh.
  • Net spread income declined by 9% YoY and 15% QoQ, reflecting the impact of asset repricing concentrated in 3Q/4Q and the implementation of the Minimum Deposit Rate (MDR) for Islamic banks. Fee income rose 10% YoY but dropped 8% QoQ, while FX income surged 3x amid higher trade activity and volumes.
  • Operating expenses down by 7% YoY and increase by 11% QoQ. Bank also recorded a provisioning of PKR 1.86 billion in 1QCY25 vs. Reversal of PKR0.35 bn in SPLY.