PSX Closing Bell: KSE-100 Index Crosses 149,000 with Strong Sectoral Support
The Pakistan Stock Exchange started the new month on a bullish note as the KSE-100 Index surged by over 1,300 points, driven by gains in cement, banking, and oil exploration sectors, with trading volumes crossing 1.18 billion shares.
Government Retires Rs. 1.13 Trillion SBP Debt Early, Strengthening Fiscal Discipline
Pakistan’s federal government has retired Rs. 1.13 trillion of debt owed to the State Bank of Pakistan ahead of schedule, marking a historic repayment that reflects fiscal discipline, improved revenues, and stronger debt management strategies.
The Future of Digital Banking in Pakistan: Transformative Shifts
Pakistan’s digital banking ecosystem is evolving rapidly with initiatives like Raast, Roshan Digital Accounts, and the SBP’s regulatory push. These shifts are driving financial inclusion, innovation, and a move toward a cashless economy.
SBP Names National Bank, UBL, and HBL as Domestic Systemically Important Banks for 2025
The State Bank of Pakistan has designated three major banks as Domestic Systemically Important Banks for 2025, introducing enhanced capital requirements to strengthen resilience and stability in Pakistan’s banking sector.
Engro Holdings Posts Rs. 73.3 Billion Profit in H1 2025 Amid Thermal Asset Reversal and Deodar Towers Acquisition
:Engro Holdings Limited reported a consolidated profit of Rs. 73.3 billion for H1 2025, boosted by impairment reversals and the acquisition of Deodar Towers, while focusing on long-term strategic growth over dividends.
SECP Approves Digital Lending License for Foremost Financial Services, Paves Way for Instant Finance NBFC Entry
SECP has issued an NBFC license to Foremost Financial Services for digital nano-lending and approved Instant Finance’s entry into the sector, signaling growing investor confidence and advancing digital financial inclusion in Pakistan.
State Bank of Pakistan’s FX Intervention Reaches $522 Million in May 2025
The State Bank of Pakistan recorded net foreign exchange purchases worth $522 million in May 2025, marking an increase from April’s $473 million. Since June 2024, the central bank’s cumulative interventions have reached $7.75 billion, reflecting ongoing efforts to stabilize the interbank market.
SECP Launches Infrastructure Mutual Funds to Bridge Pakistan’s $15 Billion Financing Gap
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has introduced a new category of mutual funds, Infrastructure Schemes, to mobilize domestic savings and bridge the $15 billion annual infrastructure financing gap. The initiative aims to enhance capital markets, provide structured investment opportunities, and align with national development priorities.
Bank Deposit Rate Declines by 41bps in July as Lending Costs Rise
Pakistan’s bank deposit rate fell by 41bps in July 2025 to 2.98 percent, while lending rates rose to 11.99 percent, widening the banking sector spread to 901bps. The decline leaves real deposit returns in negative territory, highlighting challenges for savers even as banks benefit from stronger profitability margins.
Asian Development Bank Approves $300 Million Financing for Pakistan Copper Project
The Asian Development Bank has approved a $300 million loan to support Pakistan’s copper project, aiming to boost the country’s mining sector, enhance foreign exchange earnings, and position it in the global copper supply chain while ensuring sustainability and compliance standards.