Power: Mar’25 generation up 5%YoY / 15%MoM - By Taurus Research

Apr 17 2025


Taurus Securities


  • Power generation in March 2025 clocked in at 8,409GWh, marking a 5%YoY increase and a 21%MoM recovery, driven by seasonal improvement in demand as the weather changes. This rebound follows the February slowdown, where generation had declined to 6,945GWh due to reduced industrial and household demand during winter.
  • For the 9MFY25, power generation dropped by 2%YoY, declining to 90,147GWh from 92,345GWh recorded in the SPLY.
  • Hydel generation declined sharply by 41%YoY and 31%MoM, contributing only 1,297GWh amid lower water availability. In contrast, coal-based generation surged 1.2xYoY to 1,938GWh and 68%MoM, likely due to better plant availability and reduction in global coal prices. Nuclear generation rose 7%YoY and 20%MoM, contributing the highest share at 2,223GWh. Elsewhere, generation from expensive sources like HSD and furnace oil dropped to 0%, aligning with the Government’s strategy to transition toward more cost-efficient and sustainable energy sources.

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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."
Economy: Apr’25 CAB posts USD 12Mn surplus - By Taurus Research

May 16 2025


Taurus Securities


  • 21%MoM surge in the trade deficit along with a 22%MoM decrease in remittances, have reduced Pakistan Current Account Surplus in Apr’25 ~1xMoM, to USD 12Mn (USD 1.2Bn in Mar’25). However, cumulatively CA remains in a surplus of USD 1.9Bn during 10MFY25, as against a deficit of USD 1.3Bn in 10MFY24.
  • Trade deficit for the month clocked-in at USD 2.6Bn, up 21% MoM; amounting to USD 21.3Bn for 10MFY25, up 19%YoY. Exports were down 6%MoM owing to 9%MoM drop in Food Exports mainly Rice which fell ~12% during the month. Whereas, textile exports were flat. In addition, exports of Carpets, Sports Goods, Leather Goods and Engineering Goods were down too.
  • Conversely, Imports were up 6%MoM driven by across the board growth including Transport (25%MoM), Agri & Chemicals (14% MoM); and Machinery (up 12%MoM), respectively. This is a likely outcome of pick-up in economic activity in the country. Overall, 10MFY25 exports are up 5% and imports are up 12%, compared to the corresponding period last year. 10MFY25 services deficit stands at ~USD 2.5Bn, up 4% over the SPLY.
Oil Marketing Companies: Apr’25 Volumes surge 20%MoM, up 32%YoY - By Taurus Research

May 5 2025


Taurus Securities


  • Petroleum products off-take for April’25 stood at approximately 1.45Mn tons, reflecting a monthly growth of 20%. Similarly, on a yearly basis, sales were up 32%YoY.
  • The increase in volumes on a MoM basis was primarily driven by lower POL prices along with controlled smuggling activities.
  • Specifically, volumes for MS increased 14%MoM and 24%YoY. HSD volumes witnessed a huge 28%MoM and 33%YoY growth. Similarly, FO sales increased significantly 55%MoM and 1.8xYoY. The increase in FO sales can be attributed to uptick in demand from the power sector.
Honda Atlas Cars Limited (HCAR): 4QMY25 EPS to clocked-in at PKR 4.82; PAT down 50%YoY - By Taurus Research

Apr 22 2025


Taurus Securities


  • MY25: EPS: PKR 12.01; DPS: NIL; PAT: PKR 1.7Bn, down 27%YoY.
  • HCAR’s top line is expected to arrive at PKR 25.8Bn in 4QMY25, up 4%YoY and 45%QoQ, driven by a strong recovery in sales volumes to 5,692 units during the quarter up 13%YoY and 52%QoQ. For MY25, HCAR sold 16,061 units, marking a robust 53%YoY growth from 10,530 units last year supported by easing recovery in demand amid favorable macros.
  • Gross profit is projected to decline slightly by 2%YoY to PKR 2.1Bn, with gross margins compressing due to cost-side pressures despite higher revenues. Operating profit is expected at PKR 1.1Bn, down 12%YoY, amid a rise in administrative expenses by 21%YoY.
Power: Mar’25 generation up 5%YoY / 15%MoM - By Taurus Research

Apr 17 2025


Taurus Securities


  • Power generation in March 2025 clocked in at 8,409GWh, marking a 5%YoY increase and a 21%MoM recovery, driven by seasonal improvement in demand as the weather changes. This rebound follows the February slowdown, where generation had declined to 6,945GWh due to reduced industrial and household demand during winter.
  • For the 9MFY25, power generation dropped by 2%YoY, declining to 90,147GWh from 92,345GWh recorded in the SPLY.
  • Hydel generation declined sharply by 41%YoY and 31%MoM, contributing only 1,297GWh amid lower water availability. In contrast, coal-based generation surged 1.2xYoY to 1,938GWh and 68%MoM, likely due to better plant availability and reduction in global coal prices. Nuclear generation rose 7%YoY and 20%MoM, contributing the highest share at 2,223GWh. Elsewhere, generation from expensive sources like HSD and furnace oil dropped to 0%, aligning with the Government’s strategy to transition toward more cost-efficient and sustainable energy sources.
United Bank Limited (UBL): 1QCY25 EPS clocks-in at PKR 29.3; PAT up 1xYoY/39%QoQ - By Taurus Research

Apr 16 2025


Taurus Securities


  • 1QCY25 EPS: PKR 29.3. 1QCY25 PAT up 1xYoY. UBL also announced an interim cash dividend of PKR 11/sh. The Bank also plans to sub-divide the face value of its shares in the ratio of 2:1 subject to approval by shareholders.
  • Net Interest Income (NII): Up 2xYoY/24%QoQ, in line with expectations amid significant drop in interest expenses due to the lower cost of funds on the back of build-up in current accounts and the revised MDR regime. Deposits are up ~29% YTD.
  • Non-Markup Income (NMI): Down 20%YoY/38%QoQ, owing to ~77% drop in capital gains compared to 4QCY24
United Bank Limited (UBL): 1QCY25 EPS to clock-in at PKR 18.4; PAT up 43%YoY/down 12%QoQ - By Taurus Research

Apr 15 2025


Taurus Securities


  • Board Meeting: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
  • 1QCY25 EPS: PKR 18.4. 1QCY25 PAT up 43%YoY. UBL is also expected to announce an interim cash dividend of PKR 12/sh.
  • Net Interest Income (NII): Expected to go up 2xYoY/9%QoQ, driven by robust growth in current accounts and a lower cost of funds as changes to the MDR regime go into effect, along with a drop in leverage on a sequential basis – offsetting the pressure on yields, specially on the Bank’s investment portfolio.
Mughal Iron & Steel Industries Limited (MUGHAL): 1HFY25 Corporate Briefing Takeaways - By Taurus Research

Apr 9 2025


Taurus Securities


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  • With regards to the non-ferrous sales, the management discussed that the Company’s exports of Copper and Aluminum would remain subdued due to ongoing geo-political issues (US – China trade war), recent price competition in the EVs globally and sluggish growth in China’s industrial activity. However, the management expects slight recovery in exports on the back of anticipating some recovery in Chinese Economy during 2nd half of 2025.
  • The management shared some views regarding benefiting from the recent changes globally i.e. imposition of US tariffs. They told that the US administration did not discuss specifically about imposing tariffs on steel products. So, they expect steel market to remain stable and may not consider a backlash on the recent changes in global dynamics
Fauji Cement Company Limited (FCCL): 2QFY25 EPS clocked-in at PKR 1.6, up 24%QoQ - By Taurus Research

Feb 25 2025


Taurus Securities


  • 2QFY25: EPS: PKR 1.6; PAT: PKR 4.0Bn, up 51%YoY – in line with expectation.
  • FCCL’s net sales clocked-in at PKR 25Bn, up 8%QoQ on account of increase in overall dispatches by 12%QoQ and better retention prices. Further, gross margin arrived at 36% for the quarter, up 2pptsQoQ due to improving cost efficiencies i.e. better fuel and power mix. Further, finance cost was down significantly by 22%QoQ on the back of lower interest rates. 2QFY25 PAT arrived at PKR 4.0Bn, up 24%QoQ. Lastly, the Company did not announce any dividend for quarter.
Fertilizer: Jan’25: Fertilizer off-take down 52%MoM - By Taurus Research

Feb 14 2025


Taurus Securities


  • Total fertilizer off-take down 52%MoM in Jan’25 to 642,990 tons mainly due to seasonality factor i.e. aggressive marketing by the fertilizer companies to off-load higher inventory at the year end along with massive disbursement of Kissan Cards in 4QCY24 (forming high base effect which normalized fertilizer off-take during Jan’25). On a YoY basis, total fertilizer off-take fell significantly by 23%YoY in Jan’25 on the back of lower demand owing to seasonal slowdown post Rabi sowing.
  • Total nutrient off-take up 23%YoY to 290K tons in Jan’25. Where, Nitrogen and Phosphate offtake decreased by 25% and 16%, respectively. Whereas, Potash off-take increased by 26%YoY.
KSB Pumps Company Limited (KSBP): 9MCY24 Corporate Briefing Takeaways - By Taurus Research

Feb 11 2025


Taurus Securities


  • KSBP is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of pumps and valves with extensive operations in Pakistan having a comprehensive range of products as it is the only Company in the country with a foundry to support the local market and huge potential for exports. KSBP has a diverse product portfolio i.e. type series products (local manufacturing and distribution) and export pumps & parts (used to export to South Africa, Germany, Saudi Arabia and USA).
  • Regarding the process of Rights issue (72.54% shares acquisition by KSB SE & Co – A German Multinational Manufacturer of the Pumps), the management told that the Company has completed the process and the proceeds haven been utilized to meet the working capital needs and to pay off outstanding running financing balances. Further, the Company has made a major development by expanding its exports to Germany to increase topline.
  • As per the financial highlights, the management discussed that some proceeds of sales delivery will come in 4QCY24 and 1QCY25 which will significantly increase the topline along with enabling the Company to become cash flow positive in 4QCY24. During 3QCY24, Gross margins improved by 1.5pptsYoY to 19.1% on the back of better sales prices despite lower sales volume (9MCY24 volumes plunged due to supply chain disruptions – Red Sea issues) and turnover. The management believes that the Company will generate higher volumes in CY25 on account of expected increase in sales orders specifically from Germany and other countries. Further, the management also expects gross margins to further improve due to the addition of 850KW solar plant in its production facility – operational from Oct’24. The management also highlighted expected turnaround of the Lahore production facility in CY25.