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.
SECP Introduces New Mutual Funds Category to Bridge Pakistan’s Infrastructure Financing Gap
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has launched a new mutual funds category called Infrastructure Schemes to mobilize long-term savings for critical infrastructure projects. The initiative, part of SECP’s Fund Management Roadmap 2025–26, sets clear rules for AMCs, ensures investor safeguards, and aims to address Pakistan’s $15 billion annual infrastructure financing gap.
JS Bank Posts PKR 3.49 Billion PBT in 1H 2025 as Current Deposits Cross PKR 200 Billion
JS Bank Limited reported PKR 3.49 billion profit before tax in 1H 2025, with total income rising 10% to PKR 21.37 billion. Despite lower forex earnings and higher credit loss allowances, the bank achieved a key milestone as current account deposits crossed PKR 200 billion, strengthening liquidity and reducing funding costs.
Pakistan’s First Economic Census Maps 7.2 Million Businesses for Evidence-Based Growth
Pakistan has launched its first-ever Economic Census, mapping 7.2 million businesses and nearly 10 million household enterprises. The exercise provides a detailed dataset on economic, social, and educational infrastructure, aiming to drive evidence-based policymaking, expand the tax base, and promote inclusive growth.
Banking and Fertiliser Sectors Drive Gains as PSX Closes Higher Amid Volatile Session
The Pakistan Stock Exchange closed higher with the KSE-100 index gaining 258 points, led by strength in banking and fertiliser sectors. Despite the positive finish, trading volumes declined as investor sentiment remained cautious amid sectoral divergence and macroeconomic uncertainties.
SECP Launches Capital Market Development Fund to Boost Investor Literacy and Market Growth
SECP has operationalized the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF) with contributions from PSX, NCCPL, CDC, and PMEX to enhance financial literacy, expand outreach, and strengthen Pakistan’s capital markets through investor education and capacity building.