Copper prices around the world have been rising rapidly, driven by strong demand, concerns over future supply deficits, and growing investment interest in the metal as a critical component of electrification and clean energy infrastructure. Analysts now warn that copper could become much more expensive in the coming decade as production struggles to keep pace with demand. Benchmark copper futures hit multi-year highs on global exchanges in early 2026 as traders reacted to a weaker U.S. dollar and expectations of long-term demand growth tied to electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy systems, and power grid expansion. Speculative buying and tighter market balances have also lifted price forecasts. Why Copper Demand Is Exploding Copper plays a central role in technologies fundamental to the energy transition. It is essential in electric motors, EV batteries and charging infrastructure, solar panels, wind turbines and modern power grids. Analysts at S&P Global project that global copper demand could rise about 50% by 2040, and deficits could widen without major new mining projects. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), copper’s end-use is heavily concentrated in: Building construction (about 42%) Electrical and electronic products (23%) Transportation equipment (18%) Other industrial and consumer products China remains by far the largest single consumer, accounting for a majority share of refined copper use globally, while major economies in Asia continue to absorb additional copper for infrastructure and industrial growth. Where the Largest Copper Reserves Are Chile and Peru dominate copper production and reserves globally, with Chile alone contributing around one-third of global production. Other major mining countries include the United States, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Australia. Pakistan’s Role: Reko Diq and Domestic Copper Reserves Pakistan is not just a consumer — it also holds some of the world’s largest undeveloped copper reserves. The Reko Diq project in the Chagai District of Balochistan is a globally significant copper-gold deposit, with estimated resources of approximately 5.9 billion tonnes of ore grading around 0.41% copper and large associated gold quantities. Once fully operational, Reko Diq is expected to produce 200,000 to 250,000 tons of copper annually in its initial phase, with potential expansion to produce up to 400,000 tons per year. The mine life is projected to span more than 40 years, with a total economic output exceeding $60 billion based on feasibility studies. Reko Diq is being developed jointly by Barrick Gold (50%), the Government of Pakistan (25%), and the Government of Balochistan (25%). Production is slated to begin as early as 2028, supported by international financing from institutions like the Asian Development Bank and the International Finance Corporation to help with infrastructure and sustainability efforts. If completed, Reko Diq will place Pakistan among the world’s key copper suppliers, attracting global industrial attention as nations seek to diversify sources of critical minerals. It could rank among the largest copper mines globally once fully operational. Challenges and Broader Impacts Despite its promise, the Reko Diq project faces challenges including historical legal disputes, infrastructure constraints, and environmental concerns, particularly regarding water usage in arid regions. Environmental advocates and local rights groups have called for strict oversight to ensure sustainable development that benefits local communities. For Pakistan, Reko Diq represents not just an economic opportunity but a chance to transform its mining sector and reduce reliance on imports for industrial metals. In a world rapidly shifting toward electrification and green technologies, copper’s strategic importance — and the value of reserves like Reko Diq — can hardly be overstated.
16,000 Jobs at Risk as Amazon Sends Layoff Email to Workers by Mistake
Amazon has sparked fresh anxiety among its workforce after an internal email revealing a new round of global job cuts was sent in error to employees at its cloud computing division, Amazon Web Services (AWS). The message, which circulated internally on Tuesday, suggested that layoffs were imminent and that affected employees in the United States, Canada and Costa Rica had already been informed — a claim later found to be incorrect. The email appeared as part of a meeting invitation sent to AWS staff and was later cancelled. It contained what looked like a draft internal communication outlining planned job cuts under a project code-named “Project Dawn.” The message was signed by Colleen Aubrey, a senior vice president overseeing applied AI solutions at AWS. “Changes like this are hard on everyone,” Aubrey wrote in the email. “These decisions are difficult and are made thoughtfully as we position our organisation and AWS for future success.” The email also referred to a separate message from Amazon’s head of human resources that, according to reports, was never sent, adding to confusion among staff. Screenshots of the message quickly circulated on internal forums and social media platforms, intensifying speculation over further layoffs. Amazon has not officially confirmed a second round of job cuts, but the incident comes against a backdrop of continued workforce reductions. In October, the company announced plans to cut 14,000 corporate roles as part of efforts to reverse a pandemic-era hiring surge and rein in costs. Several media outlets have since reported that Amazon was preparing additional reductions, particularly within AWS and its core retail operations. The company employs roughly 1.5 million people worldwide, the majority of whom work in logistics and warehouses. Corporate and technical roles form a much smaller share, but they have been the primary focus of recent cuts. Andy Jassy, Amazon’s chief executive, has previously warned employees that artificial intelligence would reshape white-collar work, potentially reducing the need for some roles over time. Amazon did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the email incident. The news surfaced as job cuts ripple across the wider logistics and technology sectors. United Parcel Service said it plans to eliminate up to 30,000 jobs in 2026, building on reductions announced last year. UPS has been cutting back on low-margin deliveries linked to Amazon, its largest customer and an increasingly direct competitor. The company has previously described its Amazon business as “extraordinarily dilutive” to profit margins. While Amazon insists it is carefully managing change, the accidental release of the internal message has highlighted the uncertainty facing tech workers as companies streamline operations, automate processes, and realign around AI-driven strategies.
China Greenlights Nvidia H200 Chip Imports as Tech Demand Soars
China has taken a significant step in the global technology race by approving the first batch of Nvidia’s H200 artificial intelligence (AI) chips for import, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The approvals were granted during a visit to China by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, marking a notable shift in Beijing’s stance toward cutting-edge U.S. tech products. The H200, Nvidia’s second most powerful AI processor, delivers roughly six times the performance of the earlier H20 model — previously the most advanced AI chip allowed into China. This high computing power makes the H200 critical for large-scale AI workloads, including machine learning research, deep learning models and data centre operations. Chinese tech giants are expected to be the first beneficiaries of the nod. ByteDance, Alibaba and Tencent have reportedly received approvals for several hundred thousand H200 units, with additional companies now waiting for subsequent rounds of green lights. The approval comes after the U.S. government formally authorised exports of H200 chips to China earlier in January 2026. That decision reversed a long-standing ban on advanced AI chips, allowing Nvidia to seek sales in the lucrative Chinese market under certain conditions, including national security reviews and usage limitations. Until now, Chinese customs had blocked H200 shipments despite the U.S. export clearance, creating uncertainty for Nvidia and its supply chain. Chinese firms had already ordered more than two million H200 chips, far exceeding the company’s inventory, highlighting the scale of demand. Experts see the move as part of a broader balancing act by Beijing. On one hand, China wants to access top-tier AI hardware to support research and development and compete with global peers like OpenAI. On the other, the government remains committed to nurturing its own semiconductor industry, which has been growing quickly but still lags behind U.S. designs in many categories. Despite the clear demand, some observers note that import approvals come with conditions. Beijing is reportedly discussing rules that could require companies to purchase a proportion of domestically made chips alongside foreign imports, a move intended to protect local manufacturers. The approvals also occur amid political pushback in the United States. Some U.S. lawmakers have voiced concerns that exporting advanced AI technology could help China narrow the technology gap, with proposals under consideration to give Congress more oversight over AI chip exports. For now, China’s decision to allow the import of Nvidia’s H200 AI chips reflects a nuanced strategy — one that seeks to satisfy immense internal demand for AI capabilities while preserving momentum toward semiconductor self-sufficiency.
GLi, VX, VXL & VXR – What Do These Car Variants Mean, and Which One Is Best?
When shopping for a car in Pakistan, India, or the broader South Asian and Middle Eastern markets, you’ll often see car variants labeled as VX, GLi, VXL, or VXR. These labels are not car models — they are trim levels, which indicate different feature sets and price points within the same car model. So, what do these letters stand for, and how do they affect your buying decision? What Is a Car Variant? A variant (also known as a trim level) defines what features, specifications, and equipment a particular version of a car includes. While the engine may remain the same across variants, things like infotainment systems, safety features, interior quality, and even wheel types can vary significantly. The Common Variants Explained VX – The Base Variant Features: Very basic. Typically includes: Manual windows, no ABS, no airbags, steel rims, basic dashboard. Target buyer: Budget-conscious users looking for a simple, no-frills driving experience. GLi – The Mid-Level Choice Features: Moderate comfort and safety. Typically includes: Power windows, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), central locking, colored door handles, better upholstery. Popular in: Toyota Corolla and other mainstream sedans. Best for: Drivers wanting a balanced car with both performance and basic features. VXL – Comfort Upgrade Features: Comfort-oriented and semi-premium. Typically includes: Touchscreen infotainment system, fog lights, keyless entry, steering-mounted controls, enhanced interior finish. Best for: Buyers looking for daily comfort, convenience, and a modern interior. VXR – Top-of-the-Line Features: Fully loaded or sporty. Typically includes: Airbags, alloy wheels, reverse camera, climate control, chrome accents, power mirrors, automatic transmission (in some models). Seen in: Suzuki Alto VXR, Toyota Vitz VXR, etc. Best for: Users who want a fully-featured car with the latest tech and safety. Which Variant Is the Best? If budget allows, the VXR is generally the most complete package — offering both safety and modern features that are now expected in today’s cars. However, GLi and VXL remain the most popular choices due to their balance of price and features. Car variant labels like GLi, VX, VXL, and VXR help you understand what you’re paying for — and what you’re giving up. Before choosing, always compare the feature list carefully. Sometimes a higher variant offers significantly more value for a slightly higher cost. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer or upgrading your ride, knowing these differences can save you money — and get you the features you actually need.
From QR to Real-Time: aikPay Brings Shariah-Compliant Digital Payments to Pakistan
aik by BankIslami has launched aikPay, Pakistan’s first Shariah-compliant, Raast-enabled QR payment gateway, marking a major step forward in the country’s digital payments landscape. Built on the State Bank of Pakistan’s Raast infrastructure, aikPay enables real-time online payments through dynamic QR codes, allowing customers to pay directly from their bank accounts while offering merchants a fast, secure, and card-free checkout experience. The launch follows an engagement session organised by aik with key stakeholders from the national payments ecosystem, including representatives from the Raast platform. The session was attended by Muhammad Imaduddin, Director of Digital Innovations & Settlement at the State Bank of Pakistan, and Ahson bin Saeed, CEO of Raast Payments Pakistan. Senior leadership from BankIslami and aik, including Sohail Sikandar, Chief Operations Officer of BankIslami, and Ashfaque Ahmed, Chief Officer of aik, were also present. Commenting on the launch, Ashfaque Ahmed said that the rapid shift toward technology has made digital payments a daily necessity. He added that aik remains committed to promoting Riba-free digital banking while supporting Pakistan’s national push toward a digitally enabled economy by offering solutions that make everyday transactions faster, simpler, and more seamless. With aikPay, customers can make online purchases using any Raast-enabled mobile banking app, receiving instant transaction confirmation without the need for cards. For merchants, the platform offers nationwide reach through Raast interoperability, real-time payment verification, instant settlement to improve cash flow, and low-cost payment acceptance through competitive MDR rates. The solution is designed to be scalable and accessible, catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), online businesses, institutions, and government entities, positioning aikPay as a key enabler of Pakistan’s evolving digital payments ecosystem.
OpenAI Introduces Age Prediction to Limit Sensitive Content on ChatGPT
OpenAI is introducing a new safety system in ChatGPT that aims to identify underage users—not by asking them to self-report their age, but by predicting it through behaviour. According to TechCrunch, the company has deployed an “age prediction” feature that analyzes how an account is used to determine whether it likely belongs to someone under the age of 18. Accounts flagged as belonging to minors will automatically be placed under stricter safety controls to limit access to sensitive content. The system relies on what OpenAI describes as “behavioural and account-level signals.” These include factors such as the user’s stated age (if provided), how long the account has existed, usage patterns, and even the times of day the account is most active. If an account is identified as likely belonging to a minor, ChatGPT will automatically shift that user into a more restricted experience, applying additional safeguards around topics such as sex, violence, and other material deemed inappropriate for younger users. Why OpenAI Is Moving Now The rollout comes amid growing global pressure on technology companies to strengthen online protections for children and teenagers, especially as generative AI tools become increasingly embedded in classrooms, households, and everyday digital life. In a separate report, Reuters said OpenAI is deploying the age prediction system worldwide as part of broader plans to introduce an “adult mode” for verified users in early 2026. According to Reuters, users who are incorrectly flagged as under 18 will be able to restore full access by verifying their identity through a selfie-based check using Persona, a third-party identity verification service. OpenAI has been signaling this shift for months. In earlier policy updates, the company outlined a long-term strategy to tailor ChatGPT’s experience based on age, defaulting to stricter protections whenever a user’s age cannot be confidently determined. A Wider Industry Shift Toward Algorithmic Age Checks OpenAI’s move reflects a broader trend across the tech industry, where platforms are increasingly turning to algorithmic age estimation instead of relying on easily bypassed age checkboxes. Social media companies, in particular, have expanded similar systems in regions with tougher online safety regulations. The Guardian recently reported that TikTok has strengthened its age-verification efforts across the European Union by analysing profile information, posted content, and behavioural signals to detect younger users. For ChatGPT, the change marks an important shift in how consumer AI products manage safety. Rather than static settings, protections are increasingly being built into real-time, adaptive systems designed to respond to who is using the tool—and what they may be vulnerable to seeing.
Pakistan Auto Market Gets New Hybrid Option as Sazgar Opens TANK-500 Bookings
Sazgar Engineering Works Limited on Tuesday announced that it will begin bookings for its Completely Knocked Down (CKD) models of the TANK-500 Hi4-T 4×4 2.0L Turbo Automatic from January 26, marking another step in the company’s expansion into the new energy vehicle segment. The development was shared through a formal notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). According to the notice, the TANK-500 CKD models will be offered in both Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) variants, giving customers multiple powertrain options. “The prices and booking details shall be announced by the company through electronic and social media today evening,” the company said in its disclosure. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle combines a conventional petrol engine with a larger battery pack compared to standard hybrids. This allows the vehicle to operate solely on electric power for a limited range before switching to hybrid mode, where both the engine and electric motor work together. Previously, in September last year, Sazgar had announced plans to introduce its upcoming PHEV models — TANK-500 and CANNON — by March 31, 2026, as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market. At the time, the company noted that Pakistan’s auto sector was showing signs of recovery and gradually regaining momentum after a prolonged slowdown. “This resurgence is creating opportunities for auto assemblers to expand their product portfolios across multiple categories, including petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles,” the company had said. Sazgar further stated that it remains committed to launching NEVs equipped with advanced technologies and modern features, in line with the government’s policy framework aimed at promoting cleaner and more efficient transportation solutions.
Cellular Subscriber Base Jumps to 200.5 Million in Pakistan by End of 2025
Pakistan’s mobile sector closed 2025 on a strong note, with the country’s total cellular subscriber base crossing the 200 million mark in December, according to official figures released by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). PTA data shows that total mobile subscribers increased from 196.58 million at the end of November to 200.55 million by the end of December, reflecting a net addition of nearly four million users within a single month. Mobile teledensity — which measures the number of cellular connections per 100 people — rose from 79 percent in November to 80 percent in December. Meanwhile, overall teledensity climbed from 79.94 percent to 81.33 percent during the same period, indicating broader access to telecom services nationwide. The number of 3G and 4G subscribers also recorded steady growth. Combined users of next-generation mobile services increased from 148.19 million in November to 150.59 million by the end of December, adding more than 2.39 million new users in one month. As a result, the penetration rate of Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) rose from 59.46 percent to 60.32 percent, underlining continued consumer migration toward faster mobile internet services. Among telecom operators, Jazz maintained a zero 3G user base, while its 4G subscribers increased from 55 million in November to 55.52 million in December. Zong also recorded growth in its 4G segment, with subscriptions rising from 41.56 million to 42.35 million over the month. However, its 3G users declined slightly from 1.676 million to 1.654 million. At Telenor Pakistan, the 3G subscriber base fell from 0.932 million to 0.888 million, while 4G users increased from 26.92 million to 27.42 million by the end of December. Similarly, Ufone reported a decline in 3G users, which dropped from 1.114 million to 1.073 million. In contrast, its 4G subscriber base grew from 19.08 million in November to 19.71 million in December. The latest figures highlight Pakistan’s accelerating shift away from legacy 3G services toward faster 4G connectivity, as overall mobile adoption and data usage continue to expand.
Government Launches New Tool to Help Drivers Locate Authorized Petrol Pumps Across Pakistan
Finding a reliable petrol pump during long journeys has become a growing concern for travellers and transporters across Pakistan. To address this issue, the federal government has launched a new mobile application, Raahguzar, aimed at helping users locate registered and authorized fuel stations nationwide. The initiative has been rolled out by the Petroleum Division as part of broader reforms to improve transparency, curb illegal fuel practices, and modernize the country’s petroleum supply chain. The Raahguzar app provides verified information about legally approved petrol pumps, allowing consumers to distinguish between authorized outlets and unregistered stations. Officials say this will not only make travel easier but also protect consumers from fuel adulteration and quantity fraud. The launch of the app is part of a wider effort to accelerate structural reforms in the petroleum sector. As part of these measures, the government is introducing a modern track-and-trace system to tackle fuel smuggling at petrol pumps and across the entire supply chain. For enhanced monitoring of oil transportation, a joint track-and-trace system has been developed in collaboration with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and the Punjab Information Technology Board. Under this system, fuel tankers, storage terminals, and retail outlets are being digitally connected through an integrated network. The Petroleum Division has also announced plans to install automatic tank gauges and digital nozzles at petrol pumps. These technologies are intended to ensure accurate measurement of fuel quantity and improve monitoring of fuel quality at the retail level. In addition, the Directorate General of Petroleum Concessions is set to introduce a new online portal aimed at increasing transparency in the bidding process for oil and gas exploration and production blocks. The statement further revealed that an Explosives Track-and-Trace System has already been made operational. The system enables real-time monitoring of the explosives supply chain, with two phases of the project completed so far. To strengthen enforcement against illegal petroleum trade, amendments have also been introduced to the Petroleum Act, 1934. These changes include provisions for heavy fines and confiscation of petroleum products involved in illegal sale or transportation, signaling a tougher stance by the government against violations in the sector.
iPhone 18 Pro Leaks Suggest a New Direction for Apple’s Flagships
Speculation around Apple’s next-generation flagship has intensified well ahead of its expected unveiling, with early leaks offering a glimpse into what could be one of the most transformative Pro models in recent years. Although Apple is not expected to unveil the device until September, reports circulating within the tech community have begun outlining what users might expect from the next Pro model. Design and Display: Familiar, but Refined According to current rumours, Apple is unlikely to overhaul the iPhone’s overall look. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to retain a similar design language, featuring a 6.3-inch display and a raised rear camera platform housing three lenses. However, subtle refinements are expected. Leaks suggest a redesigned front layout, with Face ID technology moving under the display, allowing Apple to reposition the front-facing camera to the top-left corner of the screen — a noticeable shift from the current centred placement. On the back, Apple may introduce changes to the Ceramic Shield finish, particularly to improve MagSafe charging performance and durability. Camera Upgrades and Controls Camera improvements are also expected to play a key role in the iPhone 18 Pro. Reports indicate that Apple may introduce a variable aperture system, at least on one of the rear cameras, giving users better control over light intake and depth-of-field. Additionally, a redesigned camera control button is rumoured, though it may function more simply than earlier expectations, without swipe-based gestures. Next-Generation Performance and Connectivity Under the hood, the iPhone 18 Pro is widely expected to debut Apple’s A20 Pro chip, which could deliver gains in performance efficiency and AI-driven tasks. Apple also appears to be pushing further toward hardware independence. Leaks suggest the inclusion of an in-house 5G modem, possibly branded as the C1X or C2, replacing third-party solutions. Alongside this, Apple is reportedly developing its own N1 wireless chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity. Another rumoured addition is satellite-based web browsing, building on Apple’s existing satellite communication features. Colours and Pro Max Differences New colour options are also being discussed, with rumours pointing to deeper, more premium shades such as burgundy, brown, or purple. Meanwhile, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could see physical changes. Reports suggest it may be slightly thicker than its predecessor to accommodate a larger battery, while continuing to feature a 6.9-inch display. Possible Shift in Apple’s Release Strategy One of the more surprising rumours involves Apple’s launch timeline. Analysts believe Apple may experiment with a staggered release, launching the Pro models first, while delaying the standard iPhone 18 until 2027. If true, this would mark a significant shift in how Apple positions its flagship lineup. A More Experimental iPhone Era? Taken together, the leaked features suggest Apple is preparing to take a more experimental approach with the iPhone 18 Pro. Under-display Face ID, redesigned internals, new chips, and connectivity upgrades point to a renewed emphasis on innovation rather than incremental updates. If these reports prove accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro could signal the start of a new phase for Apple’s smartphone strategy — one that places premium users at the centre of design evolution and future-ready technology.
