The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has unveiled a proposed Framework for Registered Intermediaries (RIs), representing a significant step toward strengthening regulatory compliance and enhancing digital access in the financial sector. The development was highlighted during a consultative session held in Karachi with key stakeholders from the RI community, according to an SECP press release.
The proposed framework introduces mandatory training programs for intermediaries, aimed at improving compliance standards, operational efficiency, and overall procedural effectiveness. In a notable shift from traditional practices, the SECP plans to replace periodic license renewal requirements with a continuous learning and evaluation system, ensuring that intermediaries maintain high standards of knowledge and service throughout their engagement.
The regulator emphasized that this approach is designed to elevate service quality, reinforce corporate governance, and enhance the overall integrity of Pakistan’s financial sector. By embedding continuous learning into the compliance framework, the SECP seeks to foster a culture of accountability and professional development among financial intermediaries.
As part of these reforms, the SECP is also expanding access to its Financial Institutions Portal. The portal allows instant, cost-effective digital verification of company profiles and key corporate records. This initiative aligns with the regulator’s broader digitalization agenda and its commitment to ease-of-doing-business reforms, enabling intermediaries to operate more efficiently while maintaining regulatory standards.
The proposed framework reflects a clear push toward modernizing Pakistan’s financial regulatory ecosystem. By combining technology-driven solutions with capacity-building measures, the SECP aims to create a more robust and transparent environment for intermediaries, while also supporting broader financial sector development.
Industry experts and stakeholders attending the session noted that the framework has the potential to significantly improve operational standards and enhance investor confidence, particularly in a sector increasingly reliant on digital transactions and fintech innovations.
Through this initiative, the SECP continues to signal its commitment to leveraging technology and continuous professional development to reinforce compliance, accountability, and governance across Pakistan’s financial landscape.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updates across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.