Defying the Consensus: What Drove the SBP’s Unexpected 50bps Rate Cut
The State Bank of Pakistan surprised financial markets by cutting its policy rate by 50 basis points despite expectations of no change. This article breaks down the inflation outlook, growth signals, external sector risks, and fiscal challenges that shaped the central bank’s decision and what it means for Pakistan’s economic trajectory.
SBP Defies Consensus With Early Rate Cut as Inflation, Growth Signals Shift
An analysis of the State Bank of Pakistan’s unexpected 50 basis point policy rate cut, unpacking the inflation outlook, growth signals, external stability, and fiscal risks that shaped the MPC’s decision.
Pakistan’s Fiscal Cheat Code: How Supplementary Grants Are Reshaping Budget Discipline
An in-depth look at how Pakistan’s growing reliance on supplementary grants, highlighted by the IMF’s 2025 Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Report, is impacting budget credibility, parliamentary oversight, and public financial management.
How Regulated Crypto Could Help Pakistan Save Up to $2 Billion in Annual Remittance Costs
Pakistan’s new crypto regulations could transform remittances, potentially saving up to $2 billion annually by cutting fees and delays through regulated blockchain and stablecoin-based transfers.
Pakistan Gains Temporary Relief as Global Oil Prices Retreat
Pakistan benefits from the timely retreat in global oil prices, easing import costs and current account pressures, but experts warn of structural oversupply and the need for energy reforms.
Pakistan’s Push Toward Inclusive Banking: Progress and Persistent Gaps in Women’s Financial Empowerment
Pakistan’s banking sector shows progress in women’s inclusion, with 17 million new female accounts and a 9% reduction in the gender gap. Yet, persistent inequalities reveal the need for deeper, data-driven strategies to achieve true financial empowerment.
Pakistan’s Digital Rupee in 2025: Between Promise, Risk, and Japan’s Soramitsu Experiment
Pakistan prepares to pilot its digital rupee in partnership with Japan’s Soramitsu, exploring trust, inclusion, and Shariah compliance. Lessons from China, India, and Nigeria highlight both opportunities and risks for Pakistan’s CBDC journey.
Cash Meets Its Match: Why Pakistan’s Digital Banking Future Will Be Won (Or Lost) At The Kiryana Counter
Pakistan’s digital banking revolution hinges on adoption at the kiryana counter. From Raast’s rapid growth to new regulations, digital banks, and financial inclusion tools, the battle for trust and convenience will determine whether cash finally gives way to real-time payments.
Digital Dividends or Digital Drains? Pakistan’s Uneven E-Banking Journey
A 16-year study of Pakistan’s banking sector reveals that ATMs remain profitable while mobile and e-commerce channels struggle to deliver returns, highlighting that trust, usability, and sequencing are essential for a successful digital banking transition.
A Game of Corridors: Pakistan at the Crossroads of Geoeconomics
Pakistan is reshaping its geoeconomic strategy, moving beyond reliance on China’s CPEC to diversify trade and investment through partnerships with the US, Gulf states, Turkey, Central Asia, and Bangladesh. This shift signals a new chapter in how Islamabad aims to convert geography into long-term prosperity.