Fitch Warns Political Instability to Heighten Credit Risks in Asia-Pacific Emerging Markets in 2026
Fitch Ratings flags political instability as a key credit risk for Asia-Pacific emerging market sovereigns in 2026, citing social unrest, fiscal pressures, and investor concerns across Indonesia, Nepal, Philippines, Maldives, and Mongolia.
SBP Governor Calls for Long-Term Growth Model as Pakistan Moves Beyond Stabilisation
SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad urges a shift from short-lived stabilisation to a durable, outward-looking growth model, highlighting stronger reserves, policy discipline, and structural reforms as Pakistan’s next economic phase begins.
SECP Registers 14,802 New Companies in First Four Months of FY2025–26, Reflecting Strong Investor Confidence
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) recorded 14,802 new company registrations in the first four months of FY2025–26, highlighting digital adoption, growing entrepreneurship, and foreign investment confidence across Pakistan.
State Bank of Pakistan Maintains Policy Rate at 11 Percent Amid Inflation and Economic Challenges
The State Bank of Pakistan has kept its policy rate unchanged at 11 percent, reflecting caution over rising inflation, flood-related disruptions, and weak growth indicators across the national economy.
MMBL and SMEDA Partner to Empower SMEs and Drive Inclusive Economic Growth
Mobilink Microfinance Bank Limited (MMBL) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) have signed an MoU to enhance access to finance for small businesses across Pakistan, aiming to strengthen economic inclusion and support sustainable growth.
BML and TAAP Sign MoU to Offer Dedicated Financial Services to Travel Industry Members
BML and TAAP have signed an MoU to provide dedicated financial services to travel industry members in Pakistan. The partnership aims to support travel agents through tailored banking solutions, enhanced credit facilities, and digital financial tools, enabling greater business growth and operational efficiency.
Climate Change and Population Growth Major Obstacles to $3 Trillion Economy, Says Finance Minister Aurangzeb
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has identified climate change and population growth as the two biggest obstacles to Pakistan’s $3 trillion economy target. Speaking on Geo News, he warned of economic damage from recent floods and rising poverty, while Miftah Ismail emphasized the need for reforms and renewable energy adoption to achieve sustainable growth.
Aurangzeb ‘quite hopeful’ Pakistan can achieve 3.5% GDP growth in FY26 despite flood impact
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has expressed optimism that Pakistan will achieve close to 3.5% GDP growth in FY26 despite the flood impact. He highlighted macroeconomic stability, IMF support, credit rating upgrades, privatization progress, and deepening China-Pakistan economic ties as key factors driving recovery.
Pakistan’s Large-Scale Manufacturing Faces Sharp Slowdown as Floods Hit Industrial Output
Pakistan’s large-scale manufacturing sector witnessed a significant deceleration in August as floods disrupted industrial activity. The slowdown highlights growing economic vulnerabilities despite earlier signs of recovery in key industries like automobiles and cement.
Pakistan’s Bank Deposits-to-GDP Ratio Drops to Lowest Level Among Peers: SBP
Pakistan’s deposits-to-GDP ratio has dropped to its lowest among peer economies despite record financial inclusion, according to SBP. Weak deposit growth, inflation, taxation, and religious factors are driving savers toward alternative assets, raising concerns about long-term investment financing and financial stability.