The State Bank of Pakistan has granted Sindh Microfinance Bank a nationwide microfinance banking license, allowing the institution to expand services across the country and enhance financial access for underserved communities. The license came into effect on February 10, 2026. With the new authorization, Sindh Microfinance Bank can now operate beyond provincial boundaries, offering […]
financial inclusion
BISP promoting economic empowerment, financial inclusion, says senator
A grand Platinum Jubilee ceremony was held at Nishtar Hall, Peshawar, to commemorate 75 years of educational services of the FORWARD System of Education. Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Upon her arrival, students warmly welcomed her and presented floral bouquets. Chairman FORWARD System of […]
State Bank launches women finance code to support entrepreneurs
KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday began implementing the Women Entrepreneurship Finance (WE-FI) Code, adopted on July 7, 2025, to address financial barriers faced by women-led businesses. Read More: SBP injects Rs 358.5 billion in the market To mark the launch, SBP organised a two-day workshop in Islamabad in collaboration with the […]
Women’s empowerment is key to growth, says SBP governor
KARACHI: Women’s participation in the economy is not just a matter of equity but a catalyst for national growth, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad said at the Pakistan Women Entrepreneurship Day 2025 event. Read More: Women’s empowerment key to tackling Pakistan’s population crisis He revealed that women’s financial inclusion has climbed to 52 […]
Meezan Bank wins top honour as Pakistan Banking Awards spotlight sector challenges
KARACHI: Meezan Bank Ltd was crowned the country’s best bank for the third time at the 10th Pakistan Banking Awards held on Friday, as industry leaders gathered to celebrate excellence while also hearing strong calls for reform from the central bank. State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad, who served as chief guest, praised […]
SBP pushes innovation, trust in Pakistan’s digital finance
KARACHI: State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmed on Wednesday highlighted the importance of trust and cybersecurity in digital finance, noting that the central bank is advancing plans to establish an innovation hub. The initiative comes as SBP launches the first cohort of its Regulatory Sandbox to test new solutions in areas such as […]
PM Shehbaz pushes for rapid shift to cashless economy
ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transforming Pakistan into a cashless economy, calling it a key step toward sustainable development and improved governance. Chairing a meeting on the progress of the digital financial transformation, the prime minister directed authorities to expand awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas, to […]
Pakistan urged to regulate crypto, explore digital rupee
ISLAMABAD: Pakistanis are estimated to have invested between $20-30 billion in asset-backed crypto instruments, with trading potentially reaching $300 billion — nearly the size of the country’s $400 billion GDP, experts told the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) Conference on Friday. The figures, they stressed, remain indicative due to the absence of a legal framework […]
Digital Lending Revolution Reshapes SME and Farm Credit
Pakistan’s financial sector is witnessing a silent revolution — one led not by mega projects or bailouts, but by digital technology empowering small businesses and farmers. Historically, commercial banks in Pakistan have steered clear of small-ticket borrowers, citing high risks and costs. But that mindset is changing fast. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, […]
Shocking gap: Just 14% of Pakistani women use financial services
Despite progress in digital financial services across Pakistan, a new survey has revealed a major gender gap in financial inclusion. According to the Karandaaz Financial Inclusion Survey, only 14% of women have access to financial services, compared to 56% of men. The report showed that 35% of Pakistanis now use banks, mobile wallets, or non-bank […]