Identity & Digital Services: NADRA is rolling out a new QR-based chipless Smart National Identity Card, aiming to make verification easier via smartphone cameras and the PakID app, with updated visible and covert security features. Energy & Power Market: Pakistan’s solar boom is cutting grid electricity demand and sales, squeezing distribution finances as fixed generation costs get spread over fewer units. Construction Regulation: A proposed Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) is back in focus, with the key question being enforcement and results—not just more rules or licensing. Oil & Trade Security: Cnergyico is increasing US crude purchases as Hormuz-linked disruptions expose Gulf-route dependence, with trade-finance support being considered to expand supply options. Telecom Consumer Protection: PTA urges mobile users to activate balance-saving/pay-as-you-go blocker services to prevent unwanted deductions after data bundles end. Regional Diplomacy & Shipping Risk: The US-Iran 60-day MoU window has expired amid disputes over Strait of Hormuz reopening and naval blockade terms, while Iran says talks haven’t resumed and Oman route planning continues. Trilateral Defence Deal: Trump welcomed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement among Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, framing it as a major step toward collective deterrence. Protests Over Living Costs: Jamaat-e-Islami staged nationwide sit-ins and protests against fuel prices and the petrol levy, demanding immediate relief. Gold Prices: Gold in Pakistan rose to Rs461,936 per tola as international prices firmed. IT Exports: Pakistan’s IT and IT-enabled services exports hit a record US$4.6bn, reinforcing the sector’s growing role in foreign exchange earnings.