Asian Development Bank

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) maintained Pakistan's economic growth forecast at 3.7% for the current fiscal year but lowered its 2026 growth projection for developing Asia and the Pacific to 4.9% due to prolonged energy market disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The ADB also raised its 2026 inflation forecast for the region to 4.3% and highlighted risks from geopolitical tensions and global financial conditions.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will be fully handed over to new owners by the end of the month after completing regulatory approvals. Privatisation plans include Islamabad Airport in FY2026-27 and outsourcing processes for Karachi and Lahore airports, alongside tax exemptions for PIA secured via IMF approval, which critics argue creates unfair advantages over other airlines.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $700 million policy-based loan to strengthen Pakistan's insurance sector, aiming to expand coverage, reduce protection gaps, and enhance financial resilience against disasters. The reforms will promote inclusive insurance products for farmers, women, and vulnerable households while supporting capital markets and pension development.

U.S. President Donald Trump claimed a deal with Iran to prevent nuclear weapon development, but Tehran stated no agreement was finalized. A draft of the potential agreement included nuclear program negotiations, $24 billion in frozen assets, and ending Israel's war in Lebanon, alongside economic impacts like falling oil prices and global growth concerns.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) warns that the Asia energy crisis has reached a 'worst' case scenario, with 15 countries seeking $4 billion in emergency support due to the war in Iran.

The article examines the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) commitment to preventing reprisals against whistleblowers and those cooperating with investigations, particularly in Uzbekistan. It questions whether development banks' safeguards are effective in practice given the political realities and culture of fear that inhibit their implementation.

The war in Iran has caused fuel disruptions in Bangladesh, leading to higher costs and lost income for citizens like Tariqul Islam, a ride-share driver who struggles to support his family. The energy shortages have disrupted daily life and slowed industrial output, raising concerns about economic growth. Bangladesh's government may spend an additional $1.07 billion on LNG subsidies due to high global prices.

The Asian Development Bank has announced a $70 billion plan to develop energy and digital infrastructure in Asia and the Pacific by 2035, with Southeast Asia set to benefit significantly. This investment will focus on new energy and digital infrastructure projects. The plan aims to boost development in the region.