

Banking sector’s record FY25 growth drives renewed focus on SME and agri financing for inclusive future
Pakistan’s banking sector posts record growth in FY25, with renewed commitment to scaling up SME and agriculture financing, as highlighted by Khurram Schehzad, reinforcing financial inclusion and equitable growth into FY26.

State Bank of Pakistan Launches WE Finance Code to Boost Funding for Women Entrepreneurs
The State Bank of Pakistan has rolled out the WE Finance Code, an international program designed to close gender financing gaps and promote economic resilience by increasing funding to women-led businesses across Pakistan.

Senate Committee Pushes for Wider Adoption of PayPak Cards Over Global Payment Giants
Pakistan’s Senate Standing Committee on Finance has called on banks to promote local PayPak cards over international options like Visa and MasterCard to strengthen the country’s digital payments ecosystem and reduce foreign dependency.

Askari Bank Secures SBP Approval for Rs6 Billion TFC Buyback to Strengthen Capital Structure
Askari Bank obtains green light from SBP to execute Rs6 billion buyback of its Tier II Term Finance Certificates, a strategic move to optimize its capital base and reinforce investor confidence.

SBP and ADB Roll Out Women Entrepreneurs Finance Code to Bridge Gender Finance Gap in Pakistan
The State Bank of Pakistan and Asian Development Bank have launched the WE Finance Code to boost women’s access to finance, with 20 banks committing to drive gender-inclusive growth.

Banks increase ATM fees for cash withdrawals at other banks, raising costs for consumers
Banks in Pakistan have raised fees for cash withdrawals at ATMs of other banks from Rs. 23.44 to Rs. 35, impacting millions of customers who now face higher costs when accessing their funds through interbank networks.

Neem partners with HBL to secure $4 million credit line, expands Shariah-compliant earned wage access across Pakistan
Neem has secured a credit line of up to $4 million from HBL to scale its Shariah-compliant earned wage access platform, Neem Paymenow, aiming to boost financial dignity and resilience for Pakistan’s salaried workforce.