Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan rose to $17.19 billion during the week ending May 29. The increase of $43 million signals a modest improvement in the country’s external financial position. Economists, investors, and policymakers closely track reserve levels as a measure of financial stability.
According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan, central bank-held reserves increased from $17.147 billion in the previous week to $17.190 billion. The latest figures indicate a gradual strengthening of official reserves despite ongoing external financing pressures. Analysts view such gains as supportive for market confidence and exchange rate stability.
Read more: SBP-held foreign reserves rise by $43m to $17.9bn
Meanwhile, the country’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves stood at $22.636 billion during the week under review. This compares with $22.647 billion recorded a week earlier, reflecting a slight decline in overall reserves. The decrease occurred despite the improvement in the State Bank’s holdings.
Commercial banks held net foreign exchange reserves of $5.446 billion, according to the central bank’s data. These reserves complement official holdings and help strengthen Pakistan’s overall external liquidity position. Together, banking sector reserves and central bank assets provide an important buffer against external shocks.
Read more: SBP reserves rise by $43 million
The State Bank said reserve movements continue to reflect changes in external inflows and outflows. Although the weekly increase was modest, market participants monitor reserve trends closely for signals about economic stability. Sustained improvements in foreign exchange reserves are considered important for strengthening investor confidence and supporting the country’s external sector outlook.