The accountancy profession has a vital role in meeting the green finance challenge says new report from ACCA

                                              

At a time when access to cheaper capital is more vital than ever to an organisation’s long-term survival, access to green finance can be a lifeline to businesses. However recent research by ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) revealed that business say they’re underinformed on climate finance opportunities and climate risk management. 59% of the respondents to the Global Economic Conditions Survey Q2 2022 said they are not considering using green finance products – an opportunity that must be addressed.

 

With lenders increasingly offering attractive ‘green rates’ to organisations able to meet sustainability requirements, green finance is cheap capital that can keep businesses in business. Professional accountants’ ability to understand the green finance options needed for the transition to net-zero is key to equipping organisations with this expertise. Having the skills to consider non-financial as well as financial business drivers will also leave the profession well placed to lead in training staff and developing the talent needed for enabling transformation and embedding sustainability.

Report author, ACCA senior subject manager – sustainability, Emmeline Skelton said: ‘Green finance is part of the fundamental narrative of ACCA’s research programme on net zero transition and the role of the accountancy profession.

In a world where key stakeholders are demanding more from companies and their net zero objectives, green finance is fast becoming the hot topic for the finance profession as it explores financing options. The profession needs upskilling, especially in volatile times, where access to capital including green finance is crucial for an organisation’s long-term survival.’

John Lelliott OBE FCCA, Non-executive Director of the Environment Agency and ACCA Sustainability Global Forum Chair said: ‘The accountancy and finance profession’s knowledge and skills in evolving market trends, stakeholder requirements and regulatory changes, will be key to transform organisations to operate in a net zero economy.’

Assad Hameed Khan, head of ACCA Pakistan, said that the timing of this research is apt considering the uncertain economic landscape in Pakistan. Green finance is an engine of competitive advantage for organisations to drive value creation by embracing sustainability into all activities. Long-term nature of sustainability continues to be at the intersection of social equity, economic viability and environmental protection.

Because finance and investment professionals have such a critical role to play in helping organisations adapt to build a more sustainable future, ACCA has taken practical steps to upskill its members. In particular, ACCA has worked together with CFA Institute to jointly launch a Climate Finance course designed by experts from both bodies.

The full report can be accessed at www.accaglobal.com/greenfinanceskills

ACCA welcomes newly qualified members in Pakistan

                                              

ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) gave an extravagant welcome to the newly qualified ACCA professionals in the country at the New Member Ceremonies held in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.

Themed ‘Shaping the future in uncertain times’, the events were a living proof of how ACCA is enabling its members to think ahead and turn challenges into opportunities for the benefit of the society. The events celebrated over 700 newly inducted ACCA members and fellow members who come from diverse backgrounds but follow the same journey as their peers globally. The events also recognised ACCA’s prizewinning students, newly awarded approved employers, Practical Experience Supervisors and winners of ACCA advocacy awards.

ACCA’s head of Pakistan, Assad Hameed Khan, initiated the ceremonies by welcoming the new members including fellows and high achievers, emphasising on the vital role played by professional accountants in nation building as well as contribution towards an inclusive, resilient and sustainable national economic growth.

Speaking to the new members, ACCA President, Joseph Owoloabi, said:

‘Accountancy is an increasingly meritocratic profession, where the content of your character and the quality of your mind and your work mean much more than nationality or background. Your global credentials mean that the welcome mat will be

rolled out for you by top employers all over the world, in all of the 178 countries where our members are active.’

In a video message, President Dr Arif Alvi, said,

‘ACCAs certainly have the potential to change and rebuild the economy of Pakistan. The accountancy profession plays a central role in the economic development of any country. Accountants are uniquely placed to help drive transparency and be at the forefront of the global fight against corruption.’

Chief Guest at the ceremony in Lahore, Governor Punjab, Muhammad Baligh Ur Rehman, said,

‘Pakistan looks forward to ACCA’s strategic business leadership for a better tomorrow.’

Notable leaders who spoke at the new member ceremonies included Kabeer Naqvi, President & CEO, U Microfinance Bank, Faisal Mushtaq, CEO, TMUC, Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, Founder, Nutshell Group, Faisal Qamar, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Decibel HRMS and Sajid Hussain, CEO, SKANS School of Accountancy.

Seed Ventures joined ACCA as this year’s co-organisers. Bank Islami and The Coca-Cola Company were the Strategic Partners. Platinum Partners included SKANS School of Accountancy, U Microfinance Bank, and The Millennium Universal College. Telenor Group Adroit Accountax/ Obox Accounting, National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited, National Disaster Risk Management Fund, Tabani's School of Accountancy, PAC Group of Colleges and Mirchawala’s Hub of Accountancy supported as Gold Partners. TCM – The Centrum Media joined as Outreach Partner and KPMG and Nutshell Group were the Knowledge Partners.

The event was also supported by the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), Pakistan Stock Exchange, Special Technology Zones Authority, Pakistan Software Houses Association, KP Board of Investment and Trade, The Centre of Excellence in Responsible Business (PBC), ICMA Pakistan, National Incubation Center, Universal Service Fund, Punjab Board of Investment & Trade, Punjab Information Technology Board, Central Power Purchasing Agency, and the CFA Society Pakistan.

ACCA has more than 227,000 fully qualified members and 544,000 future members worldwide. They're among the world’s best-qualified and most highly sought-after business professionals - and they work in every sector, everywhere in the world.

Get a chance to win PSL finale tickets for free!

         

Pakistan’s leading selling smartphone brand, Infinix, has stepped up to give fans a chance to watch PSL finale for free.  All that is required to do is to correctly predict the winners of ongoing PSL matches onto Infinix Facebook page and increase their chances of winning PSL tickets via lucky drawer taking place on Infinix Facebook page as well.  

As PSL 8 is heating up with nail-biting competitions, Infinix brings fans a unique opportunity to be a part of this legacy. Starting from today, in this out of the box contest, fans have to simply guess and comment the winner of the ongoing matches of PSL 8 on the Facebook page of Infinix. Those who guessed the right winner will enter the Lucky Draw. The winner(s) of the exciting Lucky Draw will get to witness the live cricketing clash of PSL 8 final playoffs and finale as well.

CEO Infinix, Mr. Joe Hu, urged the fans not to miss out on the opportunity of winning exclusive tickets to PSL 8 matches: " Infinix also aims to provide fans with innovative experiences & cherish able memories. This time around, we're thrilled to offer a chance to watch the best teams in action at PSL 8. We're eager to see who comes out on top in our lucky drawer."

Stay tuned to Infinix's Facebook page and find out more about this lucky drawer. In addition to this, there will be more surprises and gifts to make this cricket season worth remembering.

Shop Smart and Save Big During the Ramadan Sale on Iffalcon and TCL Products Exclusively on Daraz

                                                

Pakistan’s No.1 LED TV Brand TCL and Daraz announces the Exciting Ramadan Sale on Iffalcon and TCL Products. Starting from the today, 15th to the 25th of March, customers can enjoy massive discounts on a wide range of electronics, including TVs, sound systems, and more.

 

In addition to the discounted prices, TCL and Daraz also offer free shipping for all orders placed during the sale. This means that customers can shop from the comfort of their homes and have their products delivered right to their doorstep without any additional fees.

 

To make the deals even more affordable, monthly installments are offered on all products during the sale period. This allows customers to spread the cost of their purchases over several months, making it easier to manage their budgets while still getting the products they want.

 

"We're thrilled to offer such amazing discounts and deals to our customers during the holy month of Ramadan," said Majid Khan Niazi, Head of Marketing TCL Electronics. "We understand that this is a special time of year, and we want to make it easier for our customers to shop for the electronics they need without breaking the bank."

 

Iffalcon and TCL products are known for their quality, durability, and advanced features. Customers can expect to find the latest models and technology during the sale, including 4K Ultra HD TVs, smart TVs, and more. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to upgrade your electronics and save money—visit the TCL flagship store on Daraz today to enjoy these fantastic Ramadan deals.

 

Store Link: https://bit.ly/3l9mjXK

Alibaba.com Highlights Value of Export E-commerce at Textile Asia International Trade Fair

       

Alibaba.com, a leading platform for global business-to-business (B2B) trade, has concluded its participation as Gold Sponsor in the 24th edition of South Asia’s leading textile trade show, Textile Asia International Trade Fair. Held at the Karachi Expo Centre from 10-12 March, the event brought together textile industry experts and businesses from around the world in Pakistan to explore the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the textile sector.

Over three days, the trade fair attracted the attendance of more than 35,000 visitors and over 450 exhibitors. The Alibaba.com booth at the event attracted more than 500 visitors, who interacted with experts from Alibaba.com on-site to learn about the role of B2B e-commerce in transforming the way traditional businesses conduct global trade, as well as the opportunities and tools provided by Alibaba.com to support their export development. Visitors also took part in interactive activities to win prizes, including coupons for free e-commerce training from Alibaba.com.

Engr. Sami Abdullah Al Khanjari, Consul General, Sultanate of Oman also graced the Alibaba.com booth on the last day of the event. “We appreciate Alibaba.com’s effort in facilitating Pakistani textile companies’ global export journey through e-commerce. It shall open new business pathways for Pakistan,” he said.

“The textile industry has been the backbone of Pakistan’s export sector and we are dedicated to helping Pakistani textile companies grow to the next level by exploring online opportunities. To this end, we are greatly honored to be able to meet hundreds of local industry players at the Textile Asia International Trade Fair to highlight the value of B2B e-commerce to them,” said Mr. Rocky Lu, Head of Alibaba.com Pakistan.

“We are delighted with the success of 24th Textile Asia International Trade Fair,” said Uzair Nizam, Project Director, Textile Asia Exhibition - Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd , the event organizer. “The textile industry is constantly evolving, and it’s great to see global e-commerce players like Alibaba.com joining hands with industry players to promote the industry’s digitalization and help expand the global reach of quality products from Pakistan. We believe that this event has played an important role in shaping the Pakistan’s Textile industry for the future,” says Uzair.

Alibaba.com’s participation at the 24th Textile Asia International Trade Fair was a demonstration of its commitment to supporting the growth and development of the local textile industry. In the 12 months ended March 31, 2022, more than 40 million buyers from over 190 countries sourced business opportunities or completed transactions on Alibaba.com.

realme Launches realme C33 as a Stylish Budget King, Offering a Unique Design and Segment-only 50MP Camera

                                             

realme, the world’s fastest-growing smartphone brand, has announced its next budget king - realme C33 in Pakistan. Raising the bar for its segment, realme C33 has a stylish look and a next-level 50MP camera resolution. realme C33 (4GB + 128GB) is currently available for purchase with a price tag of PKR 54,999/-

 

Stylish Design that Stands Out

Unlike many of its uninspiring counterparts in the market, the all-new budget king outstands itself with a stylish look and classy finish. It adopts a micron-level processing and lithography technology to create a unique line pattern on its back case, creating a dynamic visual effect when looking from different angles. In addition, the phone comes coated with a shimmering and brightening sand composite to mimic a flowing water texture. 

 

Instead of just plastic, realme C33 adopts both PC and PMMA materials for the back case design, offering a translucent visual effect while also ensuring durability. The product also attends to every detail by featuring a uni-cover back cover with a premium right-angle bezel and no interrupting camera bumps. The product also comes in an 8.3mm ultra-slim body, providing a light and comfortable grip in hand. realme C33 comes in two color variants for users to choose from – Aqua Blue, and Night Sea. While the Aqua Blue variant offers a sleek and romantic ocean-like color that reminds the boundless sea, the Night Sea color variant provides a subtle and elegant option to go with users’ everyday style.

 

The First and Only 50MP under PKR 55,000/-

realme C33 provides best-in-class camera capability by being the first in its price range to feature a 50MP AI primary camera. Users can access blockbuster shots with crispy details by activating the 50MP Mode on their device. Moreover, the phone also offers Night Mode, HDR Mode, Timelapse, Panoramic view Mode, and more to capture all kinds of inspiring moments in life. The product also features a CHDR algorithm to enhance its picture quality further. For example, when taking shots under a backlit scene, the algorithm enables a better image dynamic that helps provide rich details for the overexposed area and improves the highlight suppression effect.

 

Solid All-rounder that Elevates Experience on All Front

On the display front, realme C33 offers a full-screen experience with a 6.5-inch(16.5cm) mini-drop display. It also comes with a massive 5000mAh battery capacity that lasts up to 37 days on standby while supporting Ultra-Saving Mode to offer up to 1.8 hours of calling time even with only 5% of battery left. The product sports a Unisoc T612 processor and UFS 2.2 to offer a fast and fluid system experience and is also the first C series to offer Android 12 out of the box. The product also supports a fast side-fingerprint sensor for added security.

CBD Punjab steals the show at Jashan-E-Baharan & Punjabi Culture Day celebrations

                                   

The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA) has successfully concluded its participation in the Jashan-E-Baharan celebrations (Spring Festival), organized by the Government of Punjab from March 4, 2023 till March 12, 2023

This yearly festival was aimed to promote the culture of Punjab by representing different themes, thereby bringing joy and entertainment to the people of the province. PCBDDA, also known as Central Business District Punjab, supported numerous activities during the festivity days, including Dangal (wrestling), Cycling, and Marathon. The authority also designed an ingenious social media campaign for Punjabi Culture Day to showcase the beauty and diversity of Punjab's rich culture. The campaign, supported by videos and still images, highlighted Punjabi traditions like food, folk-music and sculptures.

The CBD Punjab float remained the center of attraction throughout the festival. The float showcased the signature projects of CBD Punjab, including SIRIUS, The Runway, and The Regalia. The float was beautifully decorated with flowers and vibrant colours, thus capturing the essence of this spring.

The commissioner Lahore division Mr. Mohammed Ali Randhawa appreciated the efforts of CBD Punjab of showcasing its unique projects in a lively manner, which illustrated the efforts of authority in building quality infrastructural projects in the province  

CEO CBD Punjab. Mr. Imran Amin while expressing his view, said, "CBD Punjab has always backed government initiatives in promoting soft activities. We try to keep ourselves ahead in adding value to the community. Our participation in Jashan E Baharan is a testament to our commitment to promoting the rich culture and heritage of Punjab."

CBD Punjab is a leading development authority, aiming to create vibrant and sustainable business districts in Punjab. The authority focuses on developing state-of-the-art infrastructure, providing world-class facilities, and promoting a business-friendly environment. CBD Punjab's participation in Jashan E Baharan is part of its broader strategy to engage with the community and showcase the authority's vision and mission.