Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Sees Profit Dip to Rs22.5 Billion Amid Margin Compression
Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan’s profit fell 30.74% to Rs22.5 billion for the nine months ended September 2025 as compressed interest margins and weaker investment income weighed on earnings, though improved asset quality and rising fee-based income provided some stability.
SBP to Review Policy Rate on October 27: Market Expects Status Quo Amid Inflationary Concerns
The State Bank of Pakistan is set to review its benchmark policy rate on October 27, 2025, with most analysts expecting no change due to inflationary pressures and the economic impact of recent floods.
Fitch Highlights APAC’s Steady Growth Amid Limited Fiscal Space and Global Headwinds
Fitch Ratings projects the Asia-Pacific region to maintain solid economic growth despite tightening fiscal space, rising debt levels, and weak global demand, highlighting the importance of sound policy and fiscal discipline across APAC economies.
Investor Optimism Soars as Pakistan-Afghanistan Ceasefire Lifts KSE-100 by Over 2,400 Points
The Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed a sharp rally with the KSE-100 Index surging more than 2,400 points, fueled by renewed investor confidence following a ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan and improving global market sentiment.
IMF forecasts Pakistan’s net government debt to rise to 65.7% of GDP by 2026
The IMF’s latest Fiscal Monitor report projects Pakistan’s net government debt to increase to 65.7% of GDP by 2026, alongside a modest improvement in fiscal balance and revenue performance.
SBP Launches Inflation Expectation Survey to Strengthen Economic Insights for October 2025
SBP invites the public to participate in its October 2025 Inflation Expectation Survey to gather real-time insights on economic perceptions and inflation trends, supporting more informed policy decisions.
Pakistan’s GDP Expands 3.04% in FY2025 as Economy Reaches $407 Billion
Pakistan’s GDP growth accelerated to 3.04% in FY2025, with improved performance in agriculture, industry, and services. The economy’s total size has now reached $407 billion, driven by upward revisions in national accounts and stronger output across key sectors.
Pakistan’s Foreign Exchange Reserves Hold Steady at $19.80 Billion: SBP
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reports that the country’s total foreign exchange reserves remain steady at $19.80 billion for the week ending September 26, 2025. Slight fluctuations between central and commercial bank holdings indicate continued stability in Pakistan’s external financial position, with an expected boost from upcoming IMF disbursements.
KSE-100 Index Jumps by 1,100 Points Amid Buying in Banks, Cement, and Autos
The KSE-100 index surged by nearly 1,100 points driven by gains in banking, cement, and auto stocks, extending PSX’s bullish momentum amid policy support and strong investor sentiment.
Selling Pressure Drags KSE-100 Down by Over 700 Points Amid Global and Local Market Cues
The Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed sharp selling pressure on Thursday as the KSE-100 Index dropped over 700 points, reflecting cautious investor sentiment influenced by both domestic developments and international market uncertainties.