by admin | Aug 28, 2025 | banking, financial services, money, securities, technology
Published on, Aug. 19 — August 19, 2025 7:24 AM
The Central Bank of Pakistan (CBP), known as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), plans to introduce its enhanced payment and settlement platform named PRISM+ on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. The ceremony will be presided over by the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, Mr. Jameel Ahmad, with participation from high-ranking SBP personnel, delegates from banking entities, and important players within the finance industry. This development represents an essential step forward in the continuous improvement of Pakistan’s financial framework.
This innovative framework marks a significant advancement in updating the way funds and governmental assets circulate within the nation’s monetary network.
PRISM+ is based on the global ISO 20022 messaging standard, which is used in many advanced financial systems around the world. It includes two key components:
An improved Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system designed for swift processing of major transactions between involved parties
A completely new Central Securities Depository (CSD) responsible for handling government instruments like Treasury Bills, Public Investment Bonds, and additional government-related financial assets
What PRISM+ Provides: A Quicker and More Intelligent Banking System: PRISM+ introduces various innovative tools and functionalities for banks to enhance their everyday management processes:
Immediate transfer of significant transactions among users Choice to plan payments for a later day
Payment handling based on priority (key transactions are processed initially)
Real-time dashboards displaying account balances, outstanding payments, and transaction processing status
Automated computation of charges and bills
Enhanced Management of Sovereign Securities: The CSD within PRISM+ enables banks to purchase, trade, and oversee government bonds with greater ease:
Primary Market Auctions: Financial institutions may place offers and receive outcomes instantly
Trading in the Secondary Market: Financial institutions may send transaction orders, which are promptly paired and finalized.
Risk Administration: Financial institutions have the ability to monitor and assess their collateralized assets, as well as determine the amount that can be utilized.
Monetary Policy Tools: Assists the State Bank of Pakistan in adding or removing funds from the economy and facilitating immediate transaction settlements
Enhanced Visibility and Safety: Each transaction comes with a complete record of activity
Role-based access ensures only authorized users can perform actions
Real-time alerts notify banks about any issues with settlement
Innovative Solutions for Managing Cash Flow and Payments
Liquidity Saving Queues: To reduce delays and manage liquidity better, PRISM+ uses special queues:
High-priority payments are settled right away
Payments with lower priority are placed in distinct queues and processed in groups to prevent overcrowding.
Reserve Earmarking: Banks can set aside funds specifically for systems like Raast, 1Link, NIFT, or NCCPL. This makes sure critical transactions are not delayed due to general liquidity use.
Intraday Liquidity Facility (ILF): Financial institutions have the option to obtain temporary funding by pledging qualifying government bonds. This mechanism helps maintain seamless transactions despite temporary fund shortages.
Other Improvements
Longer operating hours for better access: Payment cancellation and return messages can now be handled in real time
Facility to deposit or withdraw cash at the SBP Karachi branch for specific transactions
The platform was created in accordance with SBP’s Vision 2028, seeking to build a contemporary, accessible, and strong financial environment. Comprehensive involvement of stakeholders during the creation phase has made sure that PRISM+ incorporates global standard approaches while addressing Pakistan’s specific market requirements.
by admin | Aug 27, 2025 | beaches, local news, pacific northwest, travel destinations, travel in oregon
An attractive coastal village on the
Oregon
The coast is filled with appeal and provides an ideal setting for a tranquil and serene holiday.
However, along with that silence comes very few other activities.
Neskowin, approximately a two-hour drive away from
Portland
It is famous for its vast sea vistas, charming rocky structures, and the soothing noise of crashing waves.
However, its peaceful calm implies that the small town necessitates visitors and residents to be innovative when seeking things to do.
With just around 200 inhabitants, Neskowin features charming little cottages and seaside homes.
The primary draw is the shoreline, which extends for four miles between Cascade Head and Nestucca Bay, offering breathtaking views.
However, the town provides limited options for tourists seeking an active evening entertainment scene or a variety of dining establishments.
It offers only two choices for dining and most prefer to prepare meals at home, as per
The Oregonian
.
A restaurant located at Hawk Creek lets guests enjoy meals such as wood-fired pizzas, seafood dishes, sandwiches, and appetizers, along with an outdoor ice cream kiosk named The Village Scoop.
Alternatively, Neskowin Provisions serves as the nearby grocery store, providing options like sandwiches and breakfast wraps, along with coffee and homemade treats.
A 15-minute trip offers those seeking additional choices an opportunity to reach Pacific City, home to establishments like Pelican Brewing, Grateful Bread Bakery, and Sportsman’s Pub-n-Grub.
Just twenty minutes away, Lincoln City provides options like the seafood eatery Kyllo’s, the food truck The Pines Dine, or Thai Bay for those craving Thai cuisine.
The small population of Neskowin leads to limited choices for accommodation, with most of its lodgings and seaside homes being independently owned.
To obtain a reservation, travelers must make arrangements via firms like Grey Fox Vacation Rentals, which oversees properties at The Chelan and Neskowin Resort, or Meridith Lodging for cabins located at The Breakers and Proposal Rock Inn.
If you’re looking for indoor fun, your single visit should be to Hawk Creek Gallery.
The creative venue was established in 1978 and showcases pieces by regional artist Michael Schlicting, who regularly visits the gallery during the summer months to engage with guests.
For those seeking a complete break from urban living, Neskowin offers an ideal getaway.
Cascade Head is an area spanning 102,110 acres where hikers can explore a system of paths providing sweeping sea vistas, including a well-known 6.6-mile trail starting at Knights Park.
The shoreline offers glimpses of Proposal Rock, a coastal cliff sanctuary covered in vegetation that rises out of the water.
In addition, the beach features its own nine-hole golf course called the Neskowin Beach Golf Course, which was established in 1932.
The Neskowin Ghost Forest – thought to date back to the 1700s due to an earthquake that drowned a grove of Sitka Spruces – presents a somber landscape of tree trunks close to Proposal Rock.
The remains stand as a strange sight rising from the sand on the southern part of Neskowin Creek, a flowing body of water separating the shoreline, which came into view following intense winter storms during the late 1990s.
The community was designed as a residential area, with its limited number of residents contributing to calm traffic conditions and ample tranquility.
Read more
by admin | Aug 27, 2025 | lifestyle, relocation, retirement, retirement planning, Travel
Dhaka, August 10 – Debra Taylor has experienced many significant events this year, including going through a divorce, getting ready for retirement, and moving from southern California to Portugal along with one of her children.
Following her decision to move overseas, Taylor narrowed down possible nations considering tax factors (Spain was eliminated because of property taxes), weather conditions (Costa Rica proved excessively warm), and convenience of traveling across Europe, which she loves. She visited Portugal through Expatsi, a moving assistance company, and opted to reside in Aveiro—a lovely coastal town on the western side recognized as the “Venice of Portugal” for its appealing waterways.
From that point onward, the procedure became more about logistics. Taylor obtained a one-year rental agreement (necessary to move forward), hired Viv Europe to manage documentation and governmental formalities, finished an FBI criminal record check, and set up a visa interview for later in September.
The decision was influenced by her youngest child. “Following the election of our current president, my 18-year-old transgender daughter expressed a desire to leave the country as quickly as possible,” Taylor said. “I fully supported her.”
Her older daughter, who is 20 years old, will stay in the United States to complete her university studies. Taylor stressed that this decision is not final: “I intend to use it as a starting point for further exploration of the area. My intention is to purchase a house someday, but just after having spent additional time residing in different neighborhoods.”
Authorities specializing in aging and moving advise that Taylor is opting for sensible decisions.
Retirement relocation trends
The rate of relocation among older adults differs based on elements such as political environment, availability of affordable homes, and expense of living. While elderly individuals tend to relocate less often compared to younger generations, more than 3 million Americans who are 65 years old and above moved within the country during the five-year period preceding the pandemic, according to census statistics.
Students encounter detentions and phone calls from authorities due to mistaken alerts from AI monitoring systems.
Of those relocating overseas, U.S. political issues have become the primary reason, as stated by Jen Barnett, co-founder of Expatsi. Nonetheless, several well-known retirement locations tend to favor younger workers rather than older residents.
Many older Americans remain in their current homes, yet staying put comes with difficulties such as increasing housing expenses, costly alterations to living spaces, and insufficient local support systems including medical care, essential services, and security. Rodney Harrell from AARP highlights the significance of preparing for upcoming requirements, covering aspects like health, movement capabilities, and financial shifts.
By 2034, the number of individuals aged 65 and above in the United States is expected to surpass those younger than 18, representing a significant shift in population structure.
Beyond climate and family
Selecting a place for retirement goes beyond just considering climate or being close to family members. Think about your personal lifestyle needs such as availability of colleges, places of worship, and opportunities for community involvement. Harrell suggests evaluating the social environment—whether locals are welcoming or prefer privacy—and utilizing tools like the AARP livability rating.
In case proximity to family is important, retirement advisor Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons suggests open dialogue regarding participation levels and assessing the stability of grown-up kids prior to relocating.
Casey and Dave Bowers, now living on Portugal’s Silver Coast, enjoy the region but struggle with being separated from their families, even though they have adapted to the scenery and daily life.
Retirement advisor Sarah Friedell O’Connell advises those who have retired to consider how they wish to utilize their additional spare time.
Assess your lifestyle carefully
Financial advisor Chad Harmer suggests that retirees start with a “lifestyle review,” imagining their perfect everyday schedule several years from now, incorporating factors like location, social interactions, interests, medical care, and time spent with relatives, prior to considering tax implications.
He advises setting aside funds for unexpected charges such as insurance in areas prone to disasters and ongoing travel expenditures. Parsons suggests opting for temporary leases to assess lifestyle suitability prior to making a long-term relocation decision.
Harmer’s rule: If 80% of your ideal daily life can be maintained at your new home for 80% of the year, you’ve probably discovered the suitable spot. Anything less could indicate pursuing unattainable goals.
Source: Agency
by admin | Aug 26, 2025 | agriculture, economics, international relations, international trade, politics
Released on, Aug. 19 — August 19, 2025 at 10:47 AM
Pakistan and Iran have committed to increasing their agricultural trade value to $3 billion over the coming two years, representing a major move toward enhanced mutual economic collaboration and improved food stability.
The deal was concluded in Tehran, where Pakistan’s Federal Minister of National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, headed a senior delegation and issued a joint statement alongside Iranian authorities.
Throughout the discussions, Pakistan managed to persuade Iran to purchase a significant portion of its rice needs from Pakistan, securing a consistent and dependable export market for Pakistani rice farmers.
In addition, both parties discussed matters related to the export of Pakistani mangoes, with Iran pledging prompt approvals and provision of foreign currency to eliminate current obstacles and ensure seamless commerce.
The Iranian Minister of Agriculture, Gholam Reza Nouri, mentioned that present agricultural commerce between the two nations amounts to $1.4 billion, yet emphasized significant mutual potential to meet one another’s seasonal demands.
He mentioned that Iran would provide Pakistan with milk products, dried nuts, fresh produce, and vegetables, whereas Pakistan would meet Iran’s needs for rice, corn, and about 60% of its meat imports.
The two countries also committed to enhancing cooperative research efforts regarding climate change and food stability, forming a shared agricultural committee that meets biannually, and striving to develop a comprehensive free trade agreement over time.
Furthermore, actions like enhancing customs procedures, establishing cold supply chains, and modernizing frontier facilities were completed to enable time-sensitive products to arrive at markets swiftly while upholding excellent quality requirements.
by admin | Aug 26, 2025 | health, healthcare and medicine, humanitarian aid, humanitarianism, medicine and healthcare
Kathmandu, August 19 – Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) South Asia held the third iteration of its Health and Humanity Summit in Kathmandu with the focus being “Beyond the Aid Crisis: Shared Responsibilities in a Fractured International Order.” Over 180 attendees, comprising public health professionals, aid workers, representatives from civil organizations, and legal authorities, gathered for this two-day gathering to discuss increasing worries about the decline of humanitarian values and international healthcare safeguards.
The summit discussions centered around three main topics: the challenge to humanitarian authority, managing sexual and reproductive health during conflicts and emergencies, and the importance of community strength along with mutual support among developing nations.
Experts pointed out issues including political influence over health services, declining confidence in humanitarian groups, and the importance of fair collaborations that strengthen community involvement.
Farhat Mantoo, head of MSF South Asia, kicked off the conference by highlighting the significance of ethical medical care, whereas Gopal Krishna Siwakoti, founder president of INHURED International, urged increased international cooperation to assist marginalized groups.
The conference included an exhibit along with interactive sessions designed to showcase grassroots efforts and highlight the vulnerability of aid networks. Hosts stated that the gathering sought to encourage discussion, promote responsibility, and develop real-world approaches for providing medical care in areas impacted by conflicts.
by admin | Aug 26, 2025 | cricket, cricket players, sports
Kathmandu, Aug. 19 — The Nepali men’s senior team was handed their third straight defeat in the Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia, on Monday, as they went down to Melbourne Stars Academy by 31 runs while chasing 176 runs at TIO Stadium.
A 120-run stand for the second wicket between Thomas Rogers and Blake Macdonald helped Melbourne Stars move past the setback of losing an early wicket.
The team’s captain and top-order batter, Campbell Kellaway, was dismissed for 2 runs from the third delivery of the first over bowled by Sompal Kami. Nevertheless, his teammate Rogers remained at the crease alongside Macdonald, forming an effective partnership, scoring 44 from 30 balls and 74 from 47 deliveries, respectively.
When Macdonald was dismissed for the second wicket in the 13.1 over, Melbourne Stars had scored 122 runs. Rogers continued to score a fifty and was out for 65 from 46 balls when the fourth wicket fell in the 18th over.
The Melbourne Stars fell for seven wickets during the opening innings, as other batsmen managed just 30 runs in total.
Of the six bowlers used by Nepal, Sandeep Lamichhane bagged three wickets while Kami and Shahab Alam picked one each. There were two run-outs for the Australian side.
In turn, Nepal, who were chasing the target for the third time in three games, could not complete the chase as the batting order stayed inconsistent as in the previous two losses-against hosts Northern Territory Strike on Friday and Bangladesh ‘A’ on Saturday.
Nepal had fallen short of 42 runs against NT Strike and 32 runs against the South Asian neighbour.
Opener Kushal Bhurtel departed after a cameo on Monday, scoring 25 off 13, while his partner Aasif Sheikh went on to cross the 50-run mark. When Sheikh departed as the fourth wicket in 16.1 overs, Nepal were at 120 runs, requiring 56 runs in 23 deliveries.
Skipper Rohit Kumar Paudel had scored 33 off 31 before departing as the third wicket. Kushal Malla (11 off 11) was the only other Nepali batsman to reach double figures.
Melbourne Stars had used eight bowlers in the game, and four of them remained wicketless. Doug Warren and Austin Anelzark claimed two each while Aryan Sharma and Chris Howe bagged one each.
Inconsistent batting
Each of the 11 teams in the tournament is playing six games each in the single round-robin league stage; the top four teams progress to the semi-final stage and compete for the trophy. Nepal’s chances for the title are now almost over as, with three losses, the Rhinos are placed 10th in the table. They are above Australian Capital Territory on net run rate.
Nepal have lost the three games batting second and failing to chase the target, a role of the batters. However, Nepali batters have been struggling to remain consistent and score sufficiently.
Malla, who made a comeback to the national team after being dropped when the Rhinos travelled to the UK in June, is currently the highest run scorer of the team in the tournament.
Malla accumulated 104 runs across three matches. He made 34 from 26 balls against NT Strike and remained unbeaten on 59 from 47 deliveries versus the junior Tigers. He now holds the eighth position among batsmen who have scored the highest number of runs in the competition.
Only Sheikh’s score of 53 from 49 balls and Paudel’s 33 from 31 deliveries saw Nepalese batsmen besides Malla reach more than 30 runs during the competition.
Nepal’s head coach Stuart Law has also been making changes to the squad regularly in the tournament. Lokesh Bam, who failed to deliver in the first two games, was replaced by Bhim Sharki on Monday while Aarif Sheikh was also brought in for his first appearance in the series.
However, both Sharki and Aarif were not up to the mark on Monday. Sharki departed for 1 off 2 while Aarif was not out at 8 off 9.
Nepal now have three games remaining in the series. They will face Hobart Hurricanes Academy on Tuesday, Melbourne Renegades Academy on Wednesday and Pakistan Shaheens on Friday.
Pakistan Shaheens, Melbourne Renegades and Hobart Hurricanes are placed second, sixth and seventh in the table. Shaheens and Renegades have two wins in three games while Hurricanes have one in three. The results suggest that Nepal will not have an easy time in the last three league-stage encounters.
by admin | Aug 26, 2025 | climate change, disaster management, disasters, environmental disasters, environmentalism
Released on, Aug. 19 – August 19, 2025 at 7:02 AM
Throughout history, natural disasters have consistently been a part of human life. However, advanced and accountable democratic nations draw lessons from such tragedies. They examine their shortcomings, develop strong infrastructures, and ensure the safety of citizens against upcoming dangers. Their choices are guided by long-term planning, established laws, and evidence-based studies rather than temporary political strategies or catchy phrases. Regrettably, Pakistan’s experience with the environment presents another narrative—one marked by remorse, slow reactions, unfulfilled commitments, and relief requests lost among bureaucratic procedures.
Take the example of the Netherlands, a nation mostly situated beneath sea level, which emerged from the catastrophic floods of 1953. The country redesigned its rivers, launched the “Room for the River” initiative, and built the “Delta Works,” considered among the most sophisticated flood defense networks globally. This network consists of tidal gates, dams, and locks that safeguard countless lives and crucial economic assets. Consequently, even with increasing ocean levels, the Netherlands has maintained nearly no fatalities due to flooding over many years.
By passing the Clean Air Act in 1970, the United States introduced strict environmental rules. These actions significantly cut down air pollution, enhanced public well-being, and provided a global model for combining economic development with nature protection. South Korea launched extensive tree-planting initiatives, sowing more than 9 billion trees from 1970 to 2000, turning lifeless areas into vibrant mountainous regions. This effort contributed to lessening soil erosion, enhancing air purity, and increasing wildlife diversity.
Despite being classified as a lower-middle-income nation with scarce resources, Bangladesh implemented community-driven cyclone readiness initiatives. These early alert mechanisms, along with cyclone safe havens and awareness campaigns, have cut down cyclone-related fatalities by almost 90% since the 1970s, demonstrating how collective action and preparation can preserve human lives. On the contrary, Pakistan faces significant challenges. Following the disastrous floods of 2010, each subsequent natural calamity followed a similar cycle: alerts were overlooked, destruction occurred, politicians issued declarations, assistance was pledged, yet nothing came after. The 2010 flooding affected more than 20 million individuals, damaged two million houses, and led to financial damages approximated at $10 billion. The UN requested over $2 billion in relief funds, but Pakistan managed to secure approximately $600 million.
The 2022 flooding caused greater destruction—resulting in the loss of 1,739 lives, impacting over 33 million individuals, and causing economic losses estimated at around $40 billion, which accounts for almost 9% of the nation’s GDP. Although commitments made during the 2023 Geneva summit included providing $9 billion in assistance, only slightly over $1 billion has been actually distributed so far. A significant portion of the promised support is stuck within administrative procedures or hindered by IMF requirements and political protocols. The World Bank cautions that should Pakistan not tackle climate issues effectively, it could face a reduction of up to 20% in its economic production by 2050. The Asian Development Bank ranks Pakistan among the top five nations highly susceptible to climate-induced catastrophes. Reports from Amnesty International identify Pakistan as one of the five most sensitive countries worldwide regarding climatic changes.
However, governmental policies and focus reflect indifference instead of concern. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) typically respond only following disasters. Pakistan dedicates just 0.2% of its GDP to environmental studies, far below the world average of 2.3%. Moreover, most available resources end up being spent on consulting services and ineffective initiatives rather than supporting practical, scientifically grounded solutions. Nature keeps reminding us constantly. The 2023 storm in Bonair, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, devastated many—over 200 individuals lost their lives, crops were ruined, and houses collapsed. The wails of a nursing baby buried under debris and the quiet sorrow of grieving mothers deeply affected the country’s sense of morality. Still, in Islamabad and Peshawar, political maneuvering took precedence over compassion, with official systems remaining slow to act.
Residents keep asking: Where are the one billion trees that were promised? Where are the billions committed for assistance? What happened to the climate strategy that was introduced with great excitement? Where is the government that swore to clear drainage systems, study cloudbursts, and implement advanced technologies? Scholars such as Professor Shafiq Ahmed Kamboh from Punjab University had previously cautioned about rising instances of cloudbursts and unpredictable rainfall. However, their warnings went unheard, buried under bureaucratic delays and political apathy. Pakistan does not possess a Nationwide Flood Strategy, an all-encompassing Drainage Development Plan, nor a contemporary early warning mechanism linked with weather forecasts. Meanwhile, nations like China have started “Soaking Urban Areas” initiatives designed to capture storm water and minimize floods, whereas Pakistan continues using obsolete structures and temporary solutions. Bribery and poor administration continue to undermine citizen confidence. Audit Office findings indicate that as much as 40 percent of the reported outcomes from the million-tree planting initiative cannot be confirmed. The expansive Living Indus Initiative faces irregular financial support and insufficient monitoring.
Pakistan should focus on improving environmental governance by setting up an elite Climate Change Commission that includes input from scientists, government officials, and members of the general public to support comprehensive and data-driven decisions. Adopting nationwide flood and drainage strategies inspired by the Netherlands could enable rivers to spread out naturally when flooding occurs, thereby easing stress on levees and city areas. Enhancing grassroots disaster readiness initiatives and funding early alert mechanisms, storm shelters, and awareness campaigns—similar to what has worked well in Bangladesh—can protect many lives. Boosting financial support for scientific exploration and technological advancements is essential, targeting a minimum allocation of 2 percent of GDP towards ecological and climatic research. Encouraging tree planting efforts through open oversight frameworks and involving nearby populations in eco-friendly land use practices can assist in restoring nature’s balance. It is vital to implement environmental regulations rigorously, reinforcing both the National Climate Strategy and methods aimed at controlling contamination. Lessening dependence on outside assistance by developing domestic capabilities to handle crises linked to weather changes will enhance Pakistan’s strength and independence.
At this moment, grief is all that remains—grief for the children lost due to flooding, the mothers who had to bury those they cherished, the farmers whose means of survival were destroyed, and a government that prioritized political maneuvering over genuine protection. Will Pakistan provide coming generations with a safe, independent, and environmentally sound home? Or will it keep sinking beneath floodwaters, unfulfilled pledges, and governmental indifference? The choice does not rest solely with leaders; it lies with the people as well. It is up to the country’s population to insist upon transparency, support efforts toward resilience, and create a Pakistan that genuinely protects both nature and its inhabitants. Now is the hour to take action—the future will not tolerate more waiting.
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | news, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel, world
Unguja. In July, Zanzibar achieved record-high monthly visitor numbers, receiving 98,370 international guests—a 44.2% growth when compared to the same time last year, according to official tourism statistics published on July 7. This number marked an impressive 45.7% increase from June 2025. Europe continued to be Zanzibar’s primary tourist origin, comprising 64.4% of all incoming visitors. Italy topped this list with 10,403 entries—accounting for 10.6% of overall arrivals—an exceptional recovery from June’s count of 2,660, which saw a remarkable 291% month-over-month boost. France followed closely behind at 7.7%, whereas Japan had the lowest percentage at just 0.2%. The data indicated that 99.4% of those who visited in July did so for recreational purposes; nearly 91% arrived via air travel. Men made up 54% of these visitors, while women comprised 46%. Over 86% of the tourists fell within the ages of 15-64, with senior citizens forming about 4.5% of the group. Almost one-third of vacationers stayed precisely a week, with most intending stays extending slightly past seven days. Hotel room availability reached 81.1%, with approximately 741,000 out of the 913,911 beds occupied throughout the month. Emerging destinations including Poland, India, Russia, Israel, China, and Ukraine experienced a collective 42.2% rise in guest counts relative to June, highlighting increasing diversity away from conventional European sources. These July outcomes reflect not only Zanzibar’s rising worldwide popularity but also Italy’s significant contribution towards boosting summer-time tourism. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | casinos in las vegas, disasters, entertainment, incident, las vegas attractions
A fierce forest fire has covered
Las Vegas
with its famous central street enveloped in heavy fog as the struggling tourism spot endures another setback.
Smoke from the
California
The Gifford Fire near Santa Barbara has been expanding and affecting the Las Vegas Valley since Sunday.
A video shared on social media by the National Weather Service in Sin City on Monday captured cloudy skies over the Las Vegas Strip.
The National Weather Service cautioned that dangerous circumstances might continue for additional days because of southwest winds spreading toxic fumes.
“Smoke from the Gifford Fire located north of Santa Barbara is still spreading into the Las Vegas Valley, causing decreased visibility and poorer air conditions,” authorities stated.
The Gifford Fire has scorched over 65,000 acres and was still contained at only three percent as of Monday afternoon.
A huge fire keeps spreading harmful smoke across state borders into Nevada.
Authorities are urging locals and visitors to reduce outdoor exposure and ensure windows remain shut due to ongoing smog affecting air quality throughout the region.
Smoke reached the area as Las Vegas faces challenges due to a significant decline in tourist numbers.
A leading hotel and resort chain in the world’s premier casino destination has recently experienced an unexpected decline in operations.
Caesars Entertainment, operating eight casino hotels and one non-casino accommodation along the Las Vegas Strip, announced a 3.7 percent decrease in net income compared to the same period last year during the second quarter of 2025,
SEC filings
revealed.
The corporation, owner of Caesars Palace and Harrah’s Las Vegas, additionally experienced a 21 percent year-over-year decline in net profit during the second quarter.
Between April and June, the company generated $1.054 billion in Las Vegas, a decrease from $1.095 billion during the same period in 2024.
One of the factors causing difficulties for businesses in Sin City is due to
International tourists have kept avoiding the United States.
– involving some dissatisfaction with the presidential term
Donald Trump
.
A further factor causing visitors to avoid the Strip could be its expensive costs.
A guest recently expressed her surprise following her experience of being
billed $26 for a bottle of Fiji Water
from the mini bar located in her room at the Aria Resort & Casino.
And a UK illusionist found himself furious following
He received a charge of $74.31 for two beverages.
at Sphere in Las Vegas.
The city of Las Vegas received 3.39 million tourists in March, marking an approximately eight percent decrease compared to 3.68 million visitors in February, as stated in a report from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.
Hotel occupancy stood at 82.9% during the same period, versus 85.3% in March 2024.
Casinos also noted nearly a five percent decline compared to the previous year. Across the state, the number decreased by 1.1 percent.
Read more
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | business, exports, international economics, international trade, pakistan
August 10, Pakistan – Exports of services in Pakistan saw notable growth during the financial year 2025, amounting to $8.39 billion, largely driven by robust activity in telecom, computing, and information sectors. This represents an increase of 9.23% compared to the previous year’s figure of $7.68 billion, as reported by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The rise indicates ongoing revival and development within the service industry, which has experienced continuous improvements since February 2024, with only a short drop of 6.5% recorded in August.
Service exports increased by 7.86% in rupees, amounting to Rs 2.345 trillion as opposed to Rs 2.174 trillion from the prior year. This upward movement remained consistent even amid changes in exchange rates, highlighting strength within the industry. Year-over-year figures for June showed an increase of 12.91%, with service exports totaling $726.68 million versus $643.59 million during June 2024. Much of this growth stems from tech-based services, which still hold a leading position in Pakistan’s export mix.
According to figures released by the State Bank of Pakistan, the telecommunications, computing, and information services sector—the biggest contributor among service exports—increased by 18.18% to reach $3.809 billion, compared to $3.223 billion in the previous year. Additional professional services saw an upward trend as well, with a growth rate of 7.35%, amounting to $1.665 billion. Meanwhile, export earnings from transportation services climbed by 27.86% to $982.0 million due to increased needs related to shipping and freight operations. On the contrary, revenue generated through travel-related services declined by 4.88%, settling at $721.0 million down from $758.0 million.
This expansion follows two years of modest progress, during which service exports increased by just 2.77% in FY2024 and 2.78% in FY2023. For FY2023, export values reached $7.30 billion, up from $7.10 billion in FY2022. The administration has established an aggressive objective of boosting IT exports to $15 billion over the coming five years, seeking to position the digital sector as a major catalyst for upcoming economic development.
On the import front, service imports grew by 2.01% during FY2025, rising to $11.02 billion from $10.79 billion in the previous fiscal year. Nevertheless, in June, imports fell significantly by 24.01% compared to the prior year, amounting to $851.56 million as opposed to $1.122 billion in the same period last year. Transportation fees experienced a minor decrease of 0.68%, totaling $4.645 billion, whereas travel imports went up by 6.17% to reach $2.406 billion, indicating higher levels of domestic tourism and international travel.
Although imports increased, Pakistan’s trade deficit in services decreased by 15.84% during fiscal year 2025, dropping to $2.618 billion from $3.11 billion in the previous year. The decline persisted in June, as the deficit fell by 73.9% compared to the same period last year, reaching $124.89 million versus $478.41 million in June 2024. This progress reflects the beneficial effect of robust exports alongside reduced expenditure on imports.
