The untamed frontier of foreign exchange
A stable and predictable forex market is a beacon for foreign investors. Their confidence fuels economic growth, creates jobs, and bolsters a nation’s financial strength. Foreign exchange reserves act as…
The quagmire of local-law domestic debt restructuring
With collaboration from an investment professional. As is widely understood, Pakistan is facing the dual dilemma of foreign debt servicing that has placed her foreign exchange reserves under significant pressure,…
The 80/20 rule for maximising foreign exchange earnings
Pakistan’s economy has been facing a number of challenges in recent years, including low growth, high inflation, large fiscal and current account deficits, and declining foreign exchange reserves. Despite various…
Local but complicated
International fuel prices have been increasing consistently for the last few months. The prices of imported coal have increased three times their original prices – from $80 to over $240…
Exchange rate volatility and exports
The exchange rate is a crucial component of trade and a dynamic macroeconomic determinant. The trade balance is impacted by exchange rate fluctuations. The growth process is slowed down as…
Navigating exchange rate labyrinth
Classical economic theory of demand and supply for goods applies just as well to a currency, the Pak rupee, the dollar or any other. The demand for the Pak rupee…
‘Now I’m nothing’: Zimbabwe floods leave local traders destitute
In eastern Zimbabwe's Rusitu Valley, heavy rain brought by Cyclone Idai this month caused flooding that rampaged through dozens of small grocery stores and market stalls. Their owners have been…
Liberalizing foreign exchange regime
One important factor in facilitating foreign capital (investment) inflow into the country is to allow it to move out easily. Lesser the friction, better is the investor confidence. The capital…
The power of cultural exchanges
I have made nearly 200 trips to Pakistan, during which I deeply felt the sincere friendship extended by the Pakistani people. Premier Zhou Enlai once said that the Pak-China friendship…
On globalization and localization
After the demise of the Soviet Union, millions of people started declaring it a great triumph of humankind. They asserted that no power could prevent the world from emerging as…
