Central Banks Face Impossible Choices as Middle East Conflict Drives Oil Prices Higher
Asian central banks struggle to balance inflation and growth as the US-Iran conflict pushes oil past 110 dollars per barrel and threatens global currency stability.
SBP Governor Projects Two Years of Economic Stability, Signals Caution on Interest Rate Cuts
SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad says Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability is likely to continue for two years, stressing cautious monetary policy, steady inflation, and disciplined post-IMF economic management.
Pakistan Banking Sector Anticipates Slight Profit Drop in Fourth Quarter 2025
Pakistan’s banking sector is projected to post a marginal 1% decline in 4QCY25 profits due to lower investment returns, while strong balance sheets, healthy deposits, and fee-based income support overall stability.
SBP Keeps Policy Rate Unchanged at 10.5%, Projects Up to 4.75% GDP Growth in FY26
State Bank of Pakistan keeps policy rate at 10.5% in January 2026 MPC meeting, citing improving growth outlook, easing inflation and containing external pressures.
SBP Raises Rs1.34 Trillion in Dual Auctions as Investors Maintain Neutral Outlook on Interest Rates
The State Bank of Pakistan raised Rs1.34 trillion through dual auctions of Treasury Bills and Pakistan Investment Bonds – Floating Rate, with yields largely unchanged as investors maintained confidence in stable interest rates and ample market liquidity.
MCB Bank’s Profit Falls 15.5% in 9MFY25 Amid Lower Interest Income and Rising Costs
MCB Bank reported a 15.5% year-on-year decline in net profit for 9MFY25, driven by lower interest income and rising costs. While non-markup income and associate profits improved, increased expenses and credit loss provisions weighed on overall profitability.
Pakistan plans debt maturity extension to strengthen financial resilience and lower refinancing risks
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has announced plans to extend the maturity of Pakistan’s domestic and external debt portfolios to lower refinancing and interest rate risks, aligning with broader economic stability and financial resilience objectives.
Pakistan’s Economy Stabilizes as Growth Rebounds to 3%: SBP
Pakistan’s economy regained stability in FY25 as inflation fell to an eight-year low, external accounts improved, and growth rebounded to 3%. SBP projects further growth in FY26 but warns of climate risks and emphasizes structural reforms to sustain economic momentum.
SBP Injects Over Rs10 Trillion Through OMO to Stabilize Liquidity
The State Bank of Pakistan has injected over Rs10 trillion into the banking system through conventional and Shariah-compliant OMOs to stabilize liquidity and support the financial sector. This strategic move underscores SBP’s dual liquidity management framework for both conventional and Islamic markets.
KTrade Upgrades Banking Sector Outlook as Habib Bank Limited Tops Investment Picks
KTrade has raised its outlook for Pakistan’s banking sector, forecasting 20% earnings growth by end-CY25. The brokerage highlighted robust deposit mobilization, strong capital gains, and improved sector valuations, naming Habib Bank Limited as its top pick.