The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a public advisory warning investors about two illegal online trading platforms, “Equitrix Investment Management LLC” and “ahlexchange.com.” These entities are reportedly enticing the public with promises of exaggerated returns on investments in shares of listed companies, while falsely associating themselves with Arif Habib Limited, a licensed and regulated brokerage house in Pakistan.
According to the SECP press release, these platforms are operating without any authorization or license from the regulator, making any investment or trading activity through them illegal. The advisory is part of SECP’s ongoing efforts to protect investors and maintain integrity in Pakistan’s financial markets. Authorities have emphasized that such platforms are often promoted through social media channels and messaging apps like WhatsApp, with fraudsters leveraging the names of reputable brokers to gain the public’s trust.
The SECP has made it clear that “Equitrix Investment Management LLC” and “ahlexchange.com” are not registered, licensed, or authorized by the commission to offer securities or commodity trading services. Investors are strongly urged to avoid these platforms, as any funds deposited with them are at significant risk and may lead to financial loss. The regulator has also reported these illegal platforms to relevant law enforcement authorities for further action.
Investors are advised to engage solely with SECP-licensed brokers for trading or investment activities and to contact them exclusively through the official communication channels listed on their websites. A complete list of authorized securities brokers can be accessed via the Pakistan Stock Exchange and Pakistan Mercantile Exchange websites. This ensures that investors are interacting with verified entities, reducing the risk of fraud and safeguarding their investments.
The SECP has emphasized the importance of due diligence, encouraging the public to verify the authenticity of any investment service before sharing personal information or transferring funds. As financial scams become increasingly sophisticated, investors are urged to remain vigilant, particularly when approached via social media or unsolicited messages claiming high returns on investments.
This warning reinforces SECP’s broader mission to maintain transparency, protect investor interests, and ensure that Pakistan’s capital markets operate under a strict regulatory framework. Authorities continue to monitor fraudulent activities in the digital space, taking proactive measures to identify and report unauthorized entities targeting unsuspecting investors.
The regulator reiterated that any engagement with “Equitrix Investment Management LLC,” “ahlexchange.com,” or similar unauthorized platforms can have serious legal and financial consequences. The advisory serves as a critical reminder for all investors to exercise caution, verify credentials, and transact only through licensed and regulated channels.
SECP’s proactive approach aims to educate the public, prevent losses, and maintain confidence in Pakistan’s securities and commodities markets. Investor vigilance, coupled with adherence to regulatory guidelines, remains essential to mitigating risks posed by fraudulent online trading operations.
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