A technical glitch during Day 1 of the Adelaide Test between India and Australia turned a tense moment for the visitors into a comical show. Mohammed Siraj’s delivery was recorded at an incredible 181.6 kmph, which is well beyond the speed limit. The speed gun’s malfunction caused social media to go crazy, with users making fun of the ridiculous statistic and bringing back the well-known “DSP Siraj” memes. The incident gave a light-hearted moment among the intensity of the contest, providing a respite from the cricketing action.
However, the day’s drama was not limited to the speed gun incident. Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne was distracted by a beer snake made by a fan near the sight screen. Labuschagne and Siraj had a heated discussion and stopped for a moment as a result, adding to the drama. On the field, India’s batting performance fell short, with the visitors being bowled out for just 180 runs. Some resistance from Nitish Kumar Reddy gave India a hope. However, Australia’s bowlers, particularly Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, were in formidable form, dominating the Indian batsmen.
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The Pakistan Advertising Association (PAA) has formally appealed to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority.
Karachi, 06 December 2024: The Pakistan Advertising Association (PAA) has formally appealed to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to reconsider its decision to suspend Television Audience Measurement (TAM) services provided by Medialogic for 30 days. The request was communicated through an official letter addressed to the Chairman of PEMRA by the Chairman of PAA.
In the letter, PAA expressed serious concerns about the potential implications of the suspension for the advertising and media industry. The association underscored that TAM data is a vital tool for advertisers and broadcasters, with billions of rupees allocated monthly based on its insights. The absence of this data could significantly impact operations and threaten the sustainability of the media industry during an already challenging economic climate.
Mr Ahmed Kapadia, Chairman of PAA stated in his letter, “We acknowledge PEMRA’s concerns behind this decision. However, we respectfully request that Medialogic be allowed to continue sharing TAM data during this suspension period. This measure would provide the industry with much-needed stability while PEMRA addresses its underlying concerns.”
The PAA emphasized that this appeal is not aimed at dismissing PEMRA’s reasoning but rather ensuring that stakeholders across the industry are not disproportionately affected during the review process.
The association expressed its hope that PEMRA will carefully consider this request, recognizing its importance for the continued growth, trust, and resilience of the media and advertising sectors in Pakistan.
FBR has implemented a 10% withholding tax on marriage halls for bookings and rental charges. This tax will be added to the rental charges, as confirmed by the marriage hall association. The FBR introduced this measure after failing to meet its November 2024 tax collection target of Rs1,003 billion, falling short of Rs151 billion. Sources reveal that the authority has missed its targets by Rs344 billion for the first five months of the fiscal year, with a total collection of Rs4,292 billion against a target of Rs4,639 billion.
Despite the increase in November’s revenue to Rs852 billion from Rs736 billion in 2023, the gap remains significant. If the FBR continues to miss its targets, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) may push for a mini-budget to meet revenue goals. The Marriage Hall Association supports the new tax, aiming to enhance revenue collection. However, the burden will fall on customers, not hall owners. These developments reflect ongoing challenges in achieving sustainable tax compliance in Pakistan.
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Sarwat Gillani, known for her great performances and inspiring persona, shared her insights on relationships in an interview with Ayesha Omar on Speak Easy. The candid format of the show allowed Sarwat to open up about her life experiences, shedding light on relationship dynamics and the importance of self-awareness when bonding with a partner.
Watch here:
The Importance of Knowing Yourself
During the interview, Sarwat emphasized that self-awareness is a must before stepping into any relationship, whether it’s marriage or parenthood. “Becoming a parent is a huge responsibility, but you should always prioritize yourself first,” she said.
Without self-awareness, she explained that one can feel like a football, constantly being tossed around by others’ expectations. Sarwat highlighted the challenges of postpartum depression, stressing that self-love and setting boundaries are essential for navigating such phases and effectively raising a child.
Respecting Boundaries in Marriage
She also talked about the dynamics of a healthy marriage, saying that people tend to expect others to prioritize them but forget to prioritize themselves. That would be very bad for a relationship. “You have to set and respect boundaries when you are married,” she said.
Her Golden Rule for Marriage
Offering practical advice, Sarwat shared her golden rule for marital bliss: never go to bed angry. “Always resolve conflicts before sleeping,” she said, adding that this practice ensures the following day begins on a positive note, fostering a stronger bond between partners.
Sarwat’s words remind us that self-love is not selfish but is actually a necessity for maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships.
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Gwadar is ever-evolving, especially with the much-anticipated Gwadar International Airport set to open by the end of December. The airport will be marking a milestone in Pakistan’s development journey. This state-of-the-art facility is more than an airport because it’s a promise of progress, a symbol of connectivity, and a gateway to unprecedented opportunities for the region and beyond.
Officials from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, led by Additional Director-General Saeed, recently toured the construction site. Saeed was joined by Deputy DG Airports Engineer Sadiqur Rehman and Project Director Engineer Faizullah Khattak. The visit aimed to evaluate the airport’s operational readiness. The team, alongside key stakeholders from the Gwadar Development Authority, Gwadar Port Authority, Chamber of Commerce, Pakistan Navy, and Army, reviewed every detail of the project. As a result, in their professional experience, the airport is almost ready to take a flight.
Moreover, during the briefing, the project director highlighted the airport’s impressive features. The airport comes with a world-class terminal building, an expansive runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, and facilities that ensure that this airport rivals the best in the world. Saeed praised the progress and reaffirmed the teams’ dedication to making the airport operational by the end of December. He stated, “We are taking all necessary measures to activate the airport within this timeline.”
This $246 million project is a critical part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Gwadar International Airport is expected to turn the city into a hub of economic activity, such as attracting global trade, tourism, and investment. Furthermore, the airport will connect Gwadar to major cities in Pakistan and international destinations. This will open doors to untapped opportunities.
The airport’s strategic location makes it the perfect spot for global trade routes. It will act as a bridge between East and West, nurturing partnerships and improving Pakistan’s global footprint. Furthermore, for the local community, it means jobs, infrastructure development, and a brighter future.
The countdown has begun, and anticipation is in the air. Gwadar International Airport will usher in a new era of growth and connectivity for Pakistan. Gwadar takes its place on the world stage, making us stronger, connected, and ready to soar.
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Recently Mawra Hocane was a guest at Something Haute where she revealed her experience of shooting for the drama serial Jafaa. Mawra played the role of Dr. Zara in the drama, an educated and self-reliant woman who is emotionally and physically abused—a reality many women face. Her portrayal of the character was quite relatable because even empowered and educated women are not spared from abuse.
Watch here:
The Emotional Challenge of Becoming Dr. Zara
When asked by the host what approach she adopted when portraying the character’s suffering, Mawra revealed how emotionally taxing it was to embody Zara. Immersing herself in the mindset of someone who was stripped of their power was extremely difficult. “It was painful to even imagine being in such a situation where someone makes you feel so powerless,” she said.
Audience Reaction and Real-Life Connections
Mawra also highlighted the feedback she received from people, mainly wondering why Zara did not leave her abusive husband. She commented that this is a harsh reality. “This happens in every household,”Mawra said while narrating the story of a school friend who had to go through a similar situation.
The trickling effect of her performance was not limited to the audience. Mawra shared how her mother was moved to tears and had to switch off the episode due to its intensity.
A Message of Strength
By portraying Zara, Mawra has shed light on the plight of women in abusive relationships, no matter how educated or independent they are. Her performance is a reminder of the strength it takes to endure such painful realities, making her role as Dr. Zara profound and unforgettable.
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Karachi’s minimum temperature is expected to drop to 13°C–15°C tonight, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The city recorded a low of 16.5°C in the past 24 hours, with 76% humidity. Clear skies and cooler nights are forecast for the next 24 hours, signalling the arrival of winter. Winds from the northeast at 6 km/h are adding a slight chill to the air. The weather is expected to remain dry during the day, with no significant rain anticipated.
Karachi’s air quality remains a major concern. The city has an AQI of 173, ranking as the sixth most polluted globally and the fifth in Pakistan. Poor air quality is driven by industrial emissions, vehicular pollution and seasonal crop burning, compounded by cooler temperatures and slow-moving winds trapping pollutants.
Despite alarming conditions, no significant measures have been taken to address the air pollution crisis in the city.
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According to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company xAI has raised an astounding $6 billion in funding. Each of the 97 investors in this investment round contributed at least $77,593. Although the names of these investors were not revealed, sources claim that Sequoia Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, Qatar Investment Authority, and Valour Equity Partners were probably involved.
This amounts to xAI’s total funding of $12 billion, after the $6 billion that was raised earlier this year, doubling its worth.
Chasing Leaders in the AI Race
xAI is trying to compete with other companies like OpenAI and Anthropic. Moreover, xAI plans to release another app by December, with similar features to OpenAI’s ChatGPT app.
xAI has a unique strategy which involves training its AI models using data from Musk’s other companies, such as Tesla and SpaceX. Apparently, the company is also in talks with Tesla to provide AI research and development in exchange for a portion of Tesla’s revenue.
However, not everyone agrees with Musk’s vision for xAI. Some Tesla shareholders have voiced their concerns and even filed lawsuits against Musk. They claim that he is taking away critical resources and talent from Tesla to xAI, which they view as competition.
Revenue and Market Competition
Despite these controversies, xAI has achieved annual revenues of around $100 million. However, it still trails behind competitors like Anthropic, which is expected to earn $1 billion in 2024, and OpenAI, aiming for $4 billion by the end of the year.
Stay tuned to Brandsynariofor the latest news and updates.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah hosted 22 children at the historic CM House in Karachi from the Karachi Down Syndrome Programme (KDSP). The event was designed to inspire the children. It also gave them a sense of governance, power and hope.
A Day to Remember
The Chief Minister spoke warmly to the children as KDSP Co-founder and CEO Tabish Shehzad showed them around the 100-year-old CM House. The visit was laced with light moments as Shah questioned, “Who among you wants to become a CM?” Several hands shot up. However, one stood out: Baby Dua confidently stated that she wanted to lead.
Source: Tribune
The CM fulfilled the children’s dreams by calling them to sit on his chair and jokingly teasing them that he would be their assistant. The crowning glory of the day was Baby Dua who chaired a mock cabinet meeting as “Chief Minister for the Day.” She asked everyone to “keep Pakistan clean,” which the real CM vowed to implement in all sincerity.
Empowering Dreams and Celebrating Potential
The children also visited the CM House gallery, which featured portraits of previous Chief Ministers. That’s where they participated in a Q&A session. One child, Angela, asked Shah how the country could improve, to which he told her that democracy was very important.
Source: News International
The visit concluded with photographs, gifts, and heartfelt moments that would forever leave a mark on the children as well as their hosts. “Miss Dua CM, your laughter will echo here for years,” Shah said as the children departed, leaving behind a legacy of joy and inspiration.
The visit happened at a time when the Sindh government was focusing on broad inclusivity efforts. Weeks prior, CM Shah attended a function at Clifton Park in observance of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities. The program highlighted the capabilities and imagination of the disabled as the government rededicated itself to creating a society free from exclusiveness.
“This day reminds us of the strength and contributions of persons with disabilities,” Shah observed.
The Bigger Picture
It warms the heart to imagine and see the opportunities provided to children with different needs. Empowering them to dream big and making them work along with leadership roles sparks hope for a better tomorrow.
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Sources report that PSL 10 management is considering top international players for the draft. Franchise owners are urging management to finalise the schedule and draft dates promptly to ensure a successful tournament.
The league has approached players like Steve Smith, David Warner, Kane Williamson, Jonny Bairstow, Finn Allen, Keshav Maharaj, Shakib Al Hasan, Jimmy Neesham and Tim Southee. Salman Nasir is currently occupied with Champions Trophy responsibilities. He will join discussions in the next key meeting between PSL franchises and management.
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After Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat’s term ended on December 8, Khurram Mushtaq became the acting CEO of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Corporation Limited. The Board of Directors of PIA met and reached the decision. Amanullah Qureshi, Ammar Ali, and Khurram Mushtaq were the three nominees who were ultimately selected for the position.
One of PIA’s highest-ranking officers, Khurram Mushtaq, offers a wealth of aviation knowledge to the role. Throughout his career, he has served as the head of several important divisions within the national carrier, such as security and vigilance, flight services, airport services and commercial operations. On Sunday, Amir Hayat, who has been acting as CEO on deputation, will finish his term. The acting CEO will assume charge immediately following Amir Hayat’s tenure.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
If you’re looking for inspiration to start your fitness journey, Pakistan’s fitness influencers are here to guide you. These influencers are known to be inspiring and their dedication and personal stories are there to motivate you to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Whether you aim to shed a few pounds, build muscle, or adopt a better lifestyle, these pros have many tips and tricks. Let’s dive into the top five Pakistani fitness influencers you need to follow right now!
1. Nida Butt
Nida is a dedicated woman so full of energy and motivation. She is a transformation coach and is known for her high-intensity workout videos and unique fitness routines. She is a go-to for anyone wanting to build strength and resilience. This influencer also shares practical advice on nutrition and fitness that fits well into everyday life. Her content is easy to follow and inspiring, making fitness accessible for all levels.
Ali brings a unique flair to the fitness scene. While he is still pretty young, he has had great success. He offers focus on holistic well-being makes him a favourite among fitness fans. Ali’s routines often emphasize ensuring a balance between physical health and mental peace. His Instagram is full of motivational posts, workout hacks, trending reels, and glimpses into his fitness philosophy. Following Ali is perfect for anyone aiming to lead a balanced lifestyle.
Aliza is breaking stereotypes and redefining fitness for women in Pakistan. Her workouts focus on empowering women to feel strong and confident. Aliza often shares her journey, which is both relatable and inspiring. From strength training to yoga, her content covers it all. Aliza is particularly loved for her focus on mental health and body positivity, encouraging her followers to embrace their uniqueness while trying to be fitter.
Saboor fitness content is all about simplicity and consistency. He specializes in effective routines that don’t require fancy equipment or hours at the gym. Saboor also dives deep into nutrition, debunking myths and providing easy meal-prep ideas for healthier living. His down-to-earth approach makes him relatable and a favourite among those looking for sustainable fitness tips.
Yasir Khan combines health with fun, making workouts something to look forward to. His platform, Fit & Fad, offers diverse routines for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an advanced buff, Yasir’s energy is infectious. His videos often include creative challenges that keep followers hooked. He also highlights the importance of rest and recovery, emphasizing a well-rounded approach to health.
These influencers are more than just health experts online; they’re motivators and role models. All of these influencers share authentic insights into their fitness journeys, making it easier for followers to connect and stay consistent. From workouts to meal plans, their content can help transform your lifestyle.
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The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has allowed a meagre 20-paisa per unit increase in electricity tariffs under the first quarterly adjustment for the fiscal year 2024-25. This adjustment will be applicable to consumers of all DISCOs and K-Electric except the lifeline customers, who are exempted from this increase.
A Closer Look at the Decision
NEPRA, after careful analysis of data filed by DISCOs and a public hearing held on November 20, 2024, agreed to revise the tariff as this would reflect the changes in the generation cost of electricity as well as the operational expenses faced in the first quarter of FY 2024-25.
Source: BR
The adjustment will replace the former quarterly adjustment of Rs1.74 per unit, which was levied up to November 2024. With the new adjustment, consumers will see a drop of Rs1.54 per unit in comparison to the rates applicable for the previous quarter, hence a little relief amidst continuous economic turmoil
Pending Implementation
Although NEPRA has announced its decision, the new rates will come into effect only after the government formally notifies them. This procedure ensures that the new rates conform to the regulatory guidelines; therefore, the government should make an announcement about them soon.
Why the Hike is Important
Quarterly adjustments in tariffs are an integral part of the NEPRA regulatory framework. They are intended to ensure that the distribution companies remain financially viable. These adjustments cover variable costs of generation and operational costs, thereby ensuring a supply of electricity to consumers.
For cash-strapped DISCOs, such measures would be very important in solving liquidity problems, especially at a time when Pakistan continues to grapple with global energy price increases and fiscal constraints at home.
The adjustment is a mixed bag for electricity users. Although the 20-paisa increase might be heavy for some, it is less than the previous quarterly increases. Lifeline consumers, on the other hand, will remain exempt from this increase, which means they will continue benefiting from subsidized electricity, an almost silver lining to low-income households.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
Source: Samaa
The Bigger Picture
Frequent tariff adjustments reflect the broader challenges of Pakistan’s energy sector, including dependency on imported fuels, inefficiencies in power distribution, and mounting circular debt. As NEPRA continues balancing operational needs and consumer affordability, addressing these structural issues remains paramount.
The new adjustment, though minor, underscores the need for long-term reforms to stabilize the energy sector and shield consumers from frequent rate hikes.
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The Pakistan cricket fraternity is no stranger to controversy, and Ahmed Shehzad has added fuel to the fire with his sharp criticism of the PCB’s latest squad decisions. The batter didn’t hold back as he questioned the exclusion of off-spinner Sajid Khan and pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi from the upcoming South Africa tour.
Sajid Khan: A Wicket-Taker Ignored
Let’s talk about Sajid Khan. Just last year, the off-spinner was Pakistan’s hero against England, grabbing an impressive 19 wickets in two Tests. His performance wasn’t just good—it was match-winning. So, naturally, his exclusion from the squad for the South Africa tour has left fans and players scratching their heads.
Ahmed Shehzad didn’t mince his words either. In a fiery video on his YouTube channel, he lashed out at the PCB: “You have dropped Sajid Khan from the South Africa series; are you people blind or out of your minds?”
Shehzad was right to point out that Sajid has been one of the bright spots in Pakistan cricket’s recent struggles. He didn’t just take wickets—he gave fans something to cheer about during a rough patch. Dropping him now feels not just puzzling but downright disrespectful to his contributions.
Shaheen Afridi: Workload Management or?
Then there’s Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler and a crowd favorite. The PCB cited “workload management” as the reason for resting him from the Tests. But Shehzad isn’t buying it.
“So, you’ve dropped Shaheen and brought in your own group. What did you achieve by dropping Shaheen? Managing workload, right? You’re just fooling the public,” Shehzad said, voicing the frustrations of many fans.
Sure, resting players to prevent burnout is crucial in modern cricket. But was South Africa the right series to rest your star bowler? It’s a high-profile tour where Pakistan will face formidable challenges. Wouldn’t it have been better to have Shaheen leading the attack?
The Bigger Picture
Ahmed Shehzad’s rant isn’t just about two players; it’s about a larger pattern of questionable decisions. Inconsistent selections have plagued Pakistan cricket for years, and fans are getting tired of seeing match-winners dropped without clear explanations.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced that the $246 million New Gwadar International Airport, including a Chinese donation, will open its doors by the end of this month. Acting DG PAA Zeeshan Saeed recently visited the site with senior officials to evaluate the status of the final preparations. Project Director Faizullah Khattak updated the team on the facility’s preparation during the visit. Furthermore, he explored commercial potential related to the airport and its adjacent economic zones.
The airport can accommodate all kinds of large aircraft because it has a huge runway and a contemporary terminal structure. It is anticipated to be crucial in improving connectivity and trade in the area, transforming Gwadar into a major commercial centre.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
The rivalry between Crumble Pakistan and Blinkit India took another playful turn when the dessert shop posted a reel mocking Blinkit using Spotify Wrapped’s iconic theme. Crumble’s witty caption highlighted that Blinkit “got played multiple times” over the year. Not one to back down, Blinkit retorted with a cricketing reference, alluding to the BCCI’s decision to withhold sending the Indian cricket team to Pakistan: “BCCI jo khel gaya aapke mulk ke saath uska kya?”
Crumble Pakistan, quick on the draw, fired back with a cheeky nod to Pakistan’s iconic 2017 Champions Trophy victory under Sarfaraz Ahmed’s captaincy, where they outclassed India in the final. The exchange not only reignited the cricketing rivalry but also set social media ablaze with laughs and engagement.
Crumble is one of the most popular dessert brands in Pakistan, offering fresh-baked cookies such as chocolate chip, peanut butter, and double chocolate. It has a very active online presence with its marketing using humor, relatable moments, and sometimes digs at the competition to keep customers entertained and engaged. Their Instagram battles with Blinkit have become an integral part of their brand identity.
Formerly Grofers, Blinkit is one of India’s top quick-commerce platforms, with grocery and essentials delivery promised within minutes. Wide arrays of products are offered using Blinkit, which banks upon the speed and convenience of getting by the fast pace of Indian urban lives. The voice for their brand is sharp, often responding humorously to customer feedback or competitor rants.
The Champions Trophy Connection
In 2025, the Champions Trophy will take place in Lahore, Pakistan, and cricket enthusiasts are excited again. It’s the golden opportunity for brands like Crumble and Blinkit to connect with both the audiences on either side of the border and blend humor with nostalgia.
Source: Reuters
Social media banter between brands, though unconventional, actually boosts engagement, crystallises brand personalities, and produces free publicity. In a masterclass of tapping into nuances in the culture and communal rivalries, for Blinkit and Crumble, it has been their Instagram spats ongoing for weeks.
While some point out that such exchanges risk losing customers, their viral appeal often outweighs the con. Brands that get their tone right find that “wars” can create dedicated followers and ensure they stay under the public eye.
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Elon Musk’s Starlink project has attracted attention worldwide as a high-speed satellite internet option, particularly in areas where access is still problematic. The issue still stands for Pakistan: Will Starlink launch here? Even while the answer isn’t simple, new information suggests that it might arrive soon.
Why Starlink Isn’t Here Yet
The main obstacle to Starlink’s entry into Pakistan has been the licensing process. The business encountered numerous technological and legal challenges even after submitting an application for a licence in February 2022. According to confirmation from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Starlink has not yet met all the conditions needed to conduct business in the nation.
Is Pakistan Getting Starlink? Source; TechJuice
A major concern is that Starlink’s non-geostationary satellites could interfere with geostationary satellites, a serious problem that has been brought to light by a number of governmental organisations, including the Strategic Plans Division, SUPARCO, and the Frequency Allocation Board. The lack of a license system for non-geostationary satellites in Pakistan further complicated the situation and slowed down progress.
A New Space Policy
When Pakistan issued its National Space Policy in late 2023 and the Pakistan Space Rules in February 2024, the scene started to change. Starlink and other satellite internet providers now have an easier time operating in Pakistan, thanks to these regulatory changes.
Now that this structure is in place, Starlink has started working again to register and meet local regulations. In an effort to get beyond the last obstacles, the business has also applied for a Long-Distance International license.
For Pakistan’s rural and isolated areas, where traditional web service is either unreliable or absent, Starlink’s satellite internet might be revolutionary. Fast internet could help close the digital gap and boost the nation’s quickly expanding freelance sector.
What’s Ahead for Starlink?
The successful launch of Starlink in Pakistan depends on resolving issues with satellite interference and navigating a challenging regulatory system. Even while there has been development, it is obvious that a deployment is unlikely to happen anytime soon.
The outlook is better than it was a year ago because of the new space policy and the ongoing talks with the government. Nonetheless, technical problems and administrative roadblocks continue to be major obstacles.
As of right now, Starlink’s entry in Pakistan is still pending. The measures thus indicate that the conversation is far from ended, even though the timeframe is undetermined. As work continues behind the scenes, there is reason for optimism among those who believe in its potential.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
QAMC’s position as a real emerging force in Pakistan’s asset management industry, highlighting the company’s operational excellence.
Karachi 05 December, 2025 – Pak-Qatar Asset Management Company Limited (PQAMC)-Rated AM2 with stable outlook by PACRA, Pakistan’s emerging dedicated Islamic Asset Management Company and part of Pak-Qatar Group, Pakistan’s premier and pioneer Islamic financial services group.
PQAMC proudly announce a remarkable achievement in Pakistan’s Islamic financial sector, surpassing PKR 50 billion in Assets Under Management (AUM) within just two years of operations. This milestone establishes PQAMC as the truly emerging asset management company in the country, demonstrating exceptional growth and market penetration in Pakistan’s competitive financial landscape.
“This extraordinary milestone reflects our commitment to excellence and the trust our investors have placed in us,” said Mr. Farhan Shaukat, Chief Executive Officer of PQAMC. “Reaching PKR 50 billion in AUM by the end of its second operational year is not just a number; it is a testament to our team’s dedication, our strong investment strategies in Shariah-compliant financial solutions, and our promise to deliver superior value to our stakeholders while maintaining the highest standards of Shariah compliance.”
The achievement reinforces PQAMC’s position as a real emerging force in Pakistan’s asset management industry, highlighting the company’s operational excellence and strategic vision in building a diverse portfolio that resonates with both corporate/institutional and individual investors.
Instagram, with over 2.11 billion monthly active users, has introduced major updates to its broadcast channels, allowing creators to enable replies from followers. Previously, the one-way communication model limited direct engagement. This update creates a two-way interaction space where followers can respond to posts. Furthermore, replies appear below the original messages so the chat can stay organized.
Additionally, Instagram has launched prompts, encouraging creators to ask questions or share statements to ignite conversations. Followers have 24 hours to respond with text or photos and can like other responses, create a more dynamic and interactive environment. With added features like metrics on interactions and story shares, creators gain valuable insights into audience engagement, transforming broadcast channels into a vibrant and community-focused platform.
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Spotify Wrapped is one recap that everyone waits for. Whether you’re just a regular music listener or a fanatic, Spotify Wrapped explains personalities through music and in an impartial way. What else could we want? It’s the highlight of the year, and it tells us how our year truly went. Was it filled with The Weeknd hits or Atif Aslam classics? Let’s be honest,we all know what it means if you listen to Atif Aslam the most… (you’re a Simp!) As per schedule, Spotify Wrapped for 2024 was released, and as per schedule, it’s on everyone’s socials. So, get on the bandwagon!
Now, even if you don’t have Spotify and you still use YouTube to listen to music, that’s fine, although you are missing out. This year, Spotify-ers, or Spotify listeners, were left slightly disappointed. Let’s break it down and see where Spotify hit the mark. Or didn’t.
Spotify Wrapped 2024 is Here – But What Changed?
The Peak
In 2023, Wrapped offered a satisfying dive into peak listening months, connecting them to the music people were listening to in a specific month. This, in turn, led people to reminisce about the year that just passed. For instance, I listened to Taylor Swift the most in August. Why, you ask? Cruel Summer of course, and Hozier in December, and well, that’s self-explanatory. The same way other people had their peak listening months with the artist they loved, which everyone pondered over. I am pretty sure that in December the most listened-to artist is probably Arijit Singh, shadi season and all.
The 2024 Wrapped, in contrast, seemed to skim over this insight. While it still highlights the day you streamed the most and what song, it removed the ‘Peak Month for Music’ feature. To the public, it was slightly underwhelming, as everyone loves to reflect back on their year. It was less about who you listened to most in, let’s say, July, and more about why, which was left up to the listeners.
The Personalities
This feature is and has been a fan favourite. Last year, Spotify nailed it. The steaming platform assigns you a ‘personality’ that is unique to your music-listening history. This personalised , unbiased and intriguing personality description according to your music type, was such a fun way to end 2023.
However, in 2024 this feature was surprisingly omitted altogether. For many, this personality type represented a way to look inward and outward simultaneously. It was a way to connect with their identity as listeners, and its absence left the Wrapped feeling incomplete.
The City
SoundTown was a fresh and new addition to 2023’s Wrapped, creatively matching users with a city that mirrored their music tastes. Although I live in Karachi, the citizens of Bombay listened to the same music as I did. Crazy, honestly! It was informational, fascinating and really fun to know what other cities were up to.
SoundTown didn’t return this year sadly. While it might not have been the most data-heavy insight, it provided a fun cultural angle that resonated with users.
Spotify Wrapped 2023 nailed it with its genre feature, giving fans their “Top 5 Genres” and celebrating diverse music styles like Afrobeats, K-pop, jazz, and classical. It felt personal, exciting, and, frankly, very “you.” Genres were more than just statistics—they connected listeners to their identity.
Fast forward to 2024, and this feature is gone!
The Shortening
Perhaps the most noticeable change in 2024 was the drastic reduction in slides; from 18 in 2023 to just 8 this year. While most fans liked how brief and to the point it was, others missed the detailed Wrapped of 2023.
While Spotify Wrapped 2024 may not have reached the high bar set by the previous years, it still provided a moment for us to reflect on our music journeys and to share on our Instagram IDs. The excitement around Wrapped is always sky-high. This year’s feedback offers Spotify a chance to recapture the magic and add more slides. I mean come on, we wait the entire year for this.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates
