ASA Microfinance Bank Secures SBP Approval to Introduce Islamic Microfinance Products in Pakistan
ASA Microfinance Bank (Pakistan) Limited receives in-principle approval from the State Bank of Pakistan to offer Islamic microfinance products and services, marking a major step in expanding Shariah-compliant financial inclusion across underserved communities.
Pakistan to Route All Government Payments via Raast by FY26 to Boost Digitalisation
The State Bank of Pakistan plans to route all government payments through Raast by FY26, backed by subsidies for merchants and initiatives to reduce cash reliance, boost financial inclusion, and formalize the economy.
Pakistan’s Digital Rupee in 2025: Between Promise, Risk, and Japan’s Soramitsu Experiment
Pakistan prepares to pilot its digital rupee in partnership with Japan’s Soramitsu, exploring trust, inclusion, and Shariah compliance. Lessons from China, India, and Nigeria highlight both opportunities and risks for Pakistan’s CBDC journey.
Digital Dividends or Digital Drains? Pakistan’s Uneven E-Banking Journey
A 16-year study of Pakistan’s banking sector reveals that ATMs remain profitable while mobile and e-commerce channels struggle to deliver returns, highlighting that trust, usability, and sequencing are essential for a successful digital banking transition.
VEON Group Plans TPL Insurance Acquisition to Strengthen Pakistan’s Financial Services Landscape
VEON Group has announced plans to acquire TPL Insurance Limited, marking its entry into Pakistan’s insurance sector. The deal, subject to regulatory approvals, could reshape financial services by integrating telecom and insurance under one digital ecosystem.
SECP Orders Licensed Entities to Mandatorily Display Raast QR Codes by October 2025
The SECP has mandated all licensed entities, including NBFCs, insurance companies, Modarabas, and brokers, to adopt and display Raast QR Codes by October 31, 2025. The directive aims to strengthen Pakistan’s digital payment ecosystem, enhance financial inclusion, and support the transition toward a cashless economy.