PTCL Group has approved a capital injection of Rs15 billion, equivalent to around $53 million, into U Microfinance Bank Limited, marking one of the largest equity investments ever made in Pakistan’s microfinance banking sector. The investment is aimed at supporting the bank’s growth strategy and accelerating the development of its digital banking platform.
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), the parent company of U Microfinance Bank, announced that the capital injection reflects its long-term commitment to strengthening financial inclusion through technology-driven banking solutions. According to the press release, the first tranche of Rs4 billion was successfully injected on December 31, 2025, with the remaining amount to be disbursed in phases as part of the approved plan.
The investment comes at a time when digital financial services are gaining rapid traction in Pakistan, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, regulatory support from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), and rising demand for accessible banking services among underserved and unbanked segments of the population. U Microfinance Bank has positioned itself as a key player in this evolving landscape by focusing on branchless and digital-first banking models.
Hatem Bamatraf, Chairman of U Microfinance Bank and Group Chief Executive Officer of PTCL Group, said the capital injection aligns with the group’s broader vision of promoting financial inclusion and innovation across Pakistan. He noted that the investment demonstrates strong confidence in U Microfinance Bank’s digital transformation roadmap and its ability to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the country’s microfinance sector.
According to Bamatraf, the PTCL Group views digital banking as a critical pillar in expanding access to financial services, particularly for low-income individuals, small businesses, and communities that remain outside the formal banking system. By leveraging PTCL’s technology infrastructure and U Microfinance Bank’s banking expertise, the group aims to deliver scalable and secure financial solutions nationwide.
U Microfinance Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Tooran Asif said the continued support from PTCL Group, along with regulatory backing from the State Bank of Pakistan, comes at a pivotal moment as the bank prepares to enter the next phase of its digital transformation in 2026. He explained that the strategy is focused on strengthening core digital capabilities while expanding the range of financial products and services offered to customers.
Asif said the bank plans to roll out additional digital offerings designed to improve customer experience, enhance transaction efficiency, and broaden access to credit, savings, and payment solutions. These initiatives are expected to help U Microfinance Bank deepen its reach across both urban and rural areas, supporting inclusive economic participation.
The capital injection is also expected to strengthen the bank’s balance sheet, enabling it to invest further in technology, cybersecurity, data analytics, and compliance systems. Industry analysts view the move as a positive signal for Pakistan’s microfinance and fintech ecosystem, highlighting growing investor confidence in digital-led financial institutions.
With this investment, PTCL Group reinforces its role not only as a telecom operator but also as a key enabler of digital financial services in Pakistan, supporting the broader shift towards a more inclusive, technology-driven banking environment.
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