Arif Habib, founder and CEO of Arif Habib Corporation Limited and Chairman of the Arif Habib Group, has expressed optimism that the super tax will be reduced in the upcoming budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. Speaking to media representatives at the Pakistan Stock Exchange on Monday, he noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hinted in a recent meeting that various industries and the salaried class would receive more relief in the upcoming budget.

He stated, “I believe that a reduction in the super tax can also be expected.”

Regarding cross-border tensions, Arif Habib claimed that India has leveled “false accusations” against Pakistan and misled its own people. As a result, India is facing public backlash and severe criticism within its parliament. In contrast, he asserted that Pakistan has emerged as a hero.

He pointed out that the Pakistan Stock Market has reacted “very positively” to recent developments, including the approval of the IMF program and a reduction in the policy rate. Arif Habib further emphasized that Pakistan is making economic progress and has demonstrated to the world that it is a strong and capable country.

In a surprising turn of events following prolonged tensions, Pakistan and India agreed to a temporary ceasefire on Saturday. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that both countries had come to a “complete and immediate ceasefire” at a time when they were conducting attacks and counterattacks on each other’s military installations. He also expressed his desire to collaborate with both nations on the issue of Indian-occupied Kashmir.