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DIB Group Arranges $101 Million Islamic Financing for DG Khan Cement's Rafhan Maize Acquisition
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DIB Group Arranges $101 Million Islamic Financing for DG Khan Cement’s Rafhan Maize Acquisition

DIB Group has successfully arranged a USD 101 million Shariah-compliant financing facility for D.G. Khan Cement Company Limited (DGKC) to support the acquisition of a majority stake in Rafhan Maize Products Company Limited (RMPL) from Ingredion Inc. The transaction highlights the growing role of Islamic investment banking in facilitating large-scale corporate acquisitions in Pakistan. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sbp-caps-minimum-savings-profit-protection-at-rs10-million-to-promote-investpak-and-government-securities/ KARACHI: DIB Group has announced the successful completion of a USD 101 million Islamic financing transaction for D.G. Khan Cement Company Limited (DGKC) to facilitate the acquisition of a majority stake in Rafhan Maize Products Company Limited (RMPL) from US-based Ingredion Inc. The financing was structured as a USD 101 million Commodity Murabaha Facility, enabling the Nishat Group to complete one of the notable corporate acquisition transactions in Pakistan’s industrial sector. DIB Acts as Sole Lead Arranger for Landmark Transaction DIB served as the Sole Mandated Lead Advisor, Shariah Advisor, Arranger, and Financier for the acquisition financing. The bank said the transaction demonstrates its capability to structure and execute complex Shariah-compliant financing solutions for Pakistan’s leading corporate groups while leveraging its international Islamic banking expertise. The financing also reflects DIB Group’s strong presence in Pakistan’s investment banking sector and its ability to support large-scale mergers and acquisitions through innovative Islamic financial structures. Financing Supports Nishat Group’s Strategic Expansion The Islamic financing facility enabled the Nishat Group to acquire a controlling stake in Rafhan Maize Products Company Limited, one of Pakistan’s leading food ingredients manufacturers, from Ingredion Inc., a US-based global ingredient solutions company. The acquisition marks a significant strategic expansion for the Nishat Group as it diversifies its business portfolio through investment in Pakistan’s food processing industry. DIB Highlights Strength in Islamic Investment Banking Commenting on the transaction, Muhammad Ali Gulfaraz, Chief Executive Officer of DIB Pakistan, said the financing represents another important milestone for the bank’s investment banking division. “This milestone represents another significant achievement for DIB’s Investment Banking team and further demonstrates our ability to deliver bespoke strategic financing solutions that support clients in executing transformational transactions while remaining fully compliant with the principles of Islamic finance.” He added that the transaction highlights DIB’s ability to provide customized financing solutions for complex corporate transactions while maintaining full compliance with Islamic finance principles. Multiple Advisors Supported the Acquisition The successful execution of the transaction involved collaboration among several advisory firms. Dada Partners acted as the buy-side mergers and acquisitions advisor, while Mohsin Tayebaly & Co. served as Pakistani legal counsel. Hogan Lovells acted as English law legal counsel for the transaction. DIB Reaffirms Commitment to Corporate Financing DIB Group said the successful completion of the financing further strengthens its position as a leading provider of Shariah-compliant investment banking solutions in Pakistan. The bank also acknowledged the cooperation of the management teams of D.G. Khan Cement Company Limited and the Nishat Group, stating that their collaboration played a key role in completing the transaction successfully. According to DIB, the financing demonstrates how Islamic banking can facilitate strategic corporate acquisitions while supporting long-term business growth and investment in Pakistan’s economy.

Bestway Group Partners with Geely Auto to Launch and Assemble Vehicles in Pakistan
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Bestway Group Partners with Geely Auto to Launch and Assemble Vehicles in Pakistan

Bestway Group has entered into a strategic partnership with China’s Geely Auto Group to become the exclusive distributor of Geely vehicles in Pakistan. The collaboration will initially introduce imported vehicles before shifting to local assembly at Bestway’s Karachi manufacturing facility, supporting Pakistan’s automotive industry through localization, technology transfer, and job creation. ISLAMABAD: Bestway Group has announced a landmark strategic partnership with Geely Auto Group, one of China’s largest privately owned automotive manufacturers, to distribute and assemble Geely vehicles in Pakistan. Under the agreement, Bestway Automotive (Private) Limited, a subsidiary of Bestway Group, will serve as the sole authorized distributor of Geely vehicles in Pakistan, marking a major development in the country’s rapidly evolving automotive sector. The partnership was formally signed at Geely Auto Group’s headquarters in Hangzhou, China. Geely Vehicles to Arrive in Pakistan Through Imports and Local Assembly As part of the agreement, Geely will initially introduce a range of vehicles into Pakistan as Completely Built Units (CBUs), allowing customers early access to the brand’s latest models. The next phase of the partnership will see Geely vehicles assembled locally at Bestway’s existing automotive manufacturing plant in Karachi. The companies said the collaboration is expected to evolve into a long-term partnership focused on increasing localization, strengthening Pakistan’s automotive supply chain, creating employment opportunities, and developing technical skills within the industry. Geely EX5, EX2 and Starray EM-i Among First Models Planned Bestway and Geely plan to introduce several advanced new-energy vehicles to the Pakistani market. The initial lineup includes: The company said additional details regarding product launches and availability will be announced in the coming months. Geely Brings Global Automotive Expertise to Pakistan Geely Auto Group is recognized globally for its engineering capabilities, research and development, safety standards and innovative vehicle technologies. The company operates one of the world’s largest automotive research and development networks and holds an extensive portfolio of advanced technology patents. Its global automotive portfolio includes ownership, strategic investments or partnerships with several internationally renowned brands, including: Geely Expands Beyond Automobiles In addition to vehicle manufacturing, Geely has expanded into smart mobility and aerospace technologies. Through its aerospace subsidiary Geespace, the company operates a commercial constellation of 64 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, supporting advanced vehicle connectivity, high-precision positioning and future autonomous driving technologies. Geely also owns smartphone manufacturer Xingji Meizu, while its Flyme Auto operating system integrates smartphones, intelligent vehicles and satellite-enabled services into a unified digital ecosystem. Bestway Group Strengthens Pakistan’s Automotive Sector Bestway Group is one of Pakistan’s largest foreign investors and operates across multiple sectors in Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the Middle East. Its major investments in Pakistan include Bestway Cement Limited, United Bank Limited (UBL), UBL Insurers Limited, Bestway Renewable Technologies (BReT), Bestway Packaging, MAP Foods, and Bestway Consultancy Services. The company said the partnership with Geely reflects its long-term commitment to supporting Pakistan’s industrial development by bringing advanced automotive technologies, expanding local manufacturing capacity and creating new employment opportunities. Further announcements regarding Geely’s product lineup, launch schedule and dealership network across Pakistan are expected in the near future.

Pakistan-IMF Talks September 2026: Crucial IMF Review May Shape Economy, Reforms and Stock Market
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Pakistan-IMF Talks September 2026: Crucial IMF Review May Shape Economy, Reforms and Stock Market

Pakistan-IMF Talks September 2026 are expected to be among the most important economic events of the year, as the government prepares for crucial reviews under the International Monetary Fund’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). The outcome could determine future IMF disbursements, influence investor confidence, and shape Pakistan’s economic direction for the remainder of 2026. ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is expected to begin formal review discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in September 2026 under two major financing programmes that will assess the country’s progress on fiscal reforms, macroeconomic stability and climate-related commitments. The negotiations are expected to play a critical role in determining future IMF funding while providing investors and international financial institutions with an updated assessment of Pakistan’s economic performance. Pakistan-IMF Talks September 2026 to Cover Two Major IMF Programmes The IMF mission is expected to conduct simultaneous reviews of two key financial arrangements. The first is the fourth review of Pakistan’s more than $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which serves as the country’s primary economic stabilization programme. At the same time, the IMF is expected to complete the third review of the $1.4 billion Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), which supports reforms aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s resilience to climate-related economic risks. Conducting both reviews together reflects the IMF’s broader assessment of Pakistan’s fiscal management, structural reforms and climate policy commitments. Tax Collection and FBR Performance to Remain a Key Focus Revenue generation is expected to remain one of the IMF’s top priorities during the September review. Officials are likely to examine whether the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) achieved its tax collection targets during the second half of FY2025-26 and assess progress in broadening the country’s tax base. Improving tax collection remains essential for reducing Pakistan’s reliance on borrowing and strengthening fiscal sustainability. Fiscal Discipline and Government Spending Under Review The IMF is also expected to closely evaluate Pakistan’s fiscal deficit, public expenditure and overall budget management. Maintaining fiscal discipline remains one of the central conditions attached to IMF financial assistance, making government spending and budget performance important areas of discussion. Energy Sector Reforms Expected to Receive Close Attention Pakistan’s energy sector is expected to remain another major focus of the review. The IMF will likely assess progress in addressing circular debt, improving governance, implementing electricity pricing reforms and enhancing the financial sustainability of the power sector. These structural reforms continue to be viewed as critical for Pakistan’s long-term economic stability. Privatization Progress to Be Assessed The government has repeatedly identified privatization as a key pillar of its economic reform agenda. During the review, the IMF is expected to evaluate progress in restructuring and privatizing selected state-owned enterprises, an initiative aimed at reducing fiscal pressures and improving the efficiency of public sector entities. Foreign Exchange Reserves and External Financing Pakistan’s external financial position will also remain under close scrutiny. The IMF is expected to assess the country’s foreign exchange reserves, external financing arrangements and ability to meet future debt obligations while maintaining exchange rate stability. Strong reserve levels are considered essential for sustaining investor confidence and protecting macroeconomic stability. Climate Reform Commitments Under the RSF Programme In addition to traditional macroeconomic indicators, the IMF will review Pakistan’s implementation of climate-related reforms under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility. The assessment is expected to cover initiatives aimed at improving climate resilience, strengthening sustainable economic planning and enhancing the country’s ability to respond to climate-related risks. Why Pakistan-IMF Talks September 2026 Matter for Investors Financial markets closely monitor IMF programme reviews because successful assessments often unlock additional funding while encouraging support from other multilateral lenders and international development partners. A positive outcome generally reinforces confidence in Pakistan’s reform programme, reduces uncertainty surrounding fiscal policy and improves the country’s standing among global investors. Conversely, delays in implementing agreed reforms or failure to meet programme targets could slow future IMF disbursements and create uncertainty in financial markets. Pakistan Stock Market Likely to Watch IMF Outcome Closely Investors at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) are expected to follow developments throughout the September negotiations. A successful review could improve market sentiment by strengthening confidence in Pakistan’s economic management, supporting external financing inflows and reinforcing expectations of continued macroeconomic stability. Banking, energy, cement, infrastructure and other economically sensitive sectors are likely to remain in focus as investors assess the outcome of the IMF discussions. While market performance depends on a range of domestic and international factors, IMF programme reviews have historically been among the most influential drivers of investor sentiment in Pakistan. Outlook The Pakistan-IMF Talks September 2026 are expected to provide one of the most comprehensive assessments of Pakistan’s economic reform agenda this year. The simultaneous reviews of the Extended Fund Facility and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility will evaluate progress on fiscal management, tax reforms, privatization, external financing and climate resilience. For policymakers, businesses and investors, the outcome of these discussions is likely to shape economic policy, influence future IMF disbursements and determine investor confidence in Pakistan’s economy for the months ahead.

KSE-100 Index Falls Over 1,200 Points as Strait of Hormuz Tensions Trigger Massive Profit-Taking
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KSE-100 Index Falls Over 1,200 Points as Strait of Hormuz Tensions Trigger Massive Profit-Taking

The KSE-100 Index reversed sharply on Tuesday, falling more than 1,200 points as investors booked profits after the previous session’s rally and growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East weighed on market sentiment. Concerns over the security of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, coupled with rising global oil prices, prompted widespread selling across key sectors, including oil and gas, cement, fertilizer, and banking. KARACHI: The benchmark KSE-100 Index at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed sharply lower on Tuesday as investors opted to lock in profits following Monday’s rally of more than 2,000 points. The benchmark index settled at 186,255.55 points, down 1,199.14 points, or 0.64%, after a volatile trading session dominated by concerns over escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the potential impact on global energy markets. Strait of Hormuz Tensions Weigh on Investor Sentiment Investor confidence weakened after reports of attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of disruptions to one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. The strategic waterway carries a significant share of global crude oil exports, and any threat to shipping activity has the potential to drive oil prices higher. For Pakistan, which relies heavily on imported energy, rising crude oil prices could increase inflationary pressures, widen the import bill, and negatively affect the country’s economic outlook. As uncertainty increased, many investors chose to secure recent gains rather than maintain aggressive positions in the equity market. Oil, Cement and Fertilizer Stocks Lead Market Decline Selling pressure remained concentrated in heavyweight sectors, dragging the benchmark lower throughout the session. Oil and gas exploration companies posted significant losses as geopolitical uncertainty overshadowed the potential benefits of higher international oil prices. Cement manufacturers also remained under pressure, while fertilizer companies extended their losses. Banking stocks, which had supported previous market gains, were unable to offset the broader sell-off. Among the notable laggards were: Select Stocks Post Gains Despite Market Weakness Despite the broad-based decline, a handful of stocks managed to attract investor interest. IBFL emerged as the session’s top performer, gaining 10%, while PGLC, BAHL, ATLH, and Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) also closed in positive territory. Bank Alfalah (BAHL) provided the largest positive contribution to the benchmark by adding approximately 130 index points. Additional support came from HMB, IBFL, PSX, and NBP, although their gains were insufficient to reverse the overall market trend. Volatile Trading Reflects Rising Uncertainty The trading session remained highly volatile from start to finish. The KSE-100 Index initially climbed to an intraday high of 188,126.67 points, gaining nearly 672 points as investors extended Monday’s optimism. However, heavy selling later pushed the benchmark to an intraday low of 186,189.21 points, representing a decline of more than 1,265 points before a modest recovery ahead of the close. The wide trading range reflected growing uncertainty as global geopolitical developments outweighed positive domestic sentiment. Broader Market Activity Remains Robust Although the benchmark declined, trading activity remained strong across the broader market. The All-Share Index also ended lower at 112,499.75 points, reflecting widespread selling. Total traded volume increased to nearly 985 million shares, compared with approximately 888 million shares in the previous session, indicating sustained investor participation. However, the total value traded declined to Rs45.70 billion, suggesting that a larger share of activity occurred in lower-priced stocks. Out of 497 companies traded during the session: Among the most actively traded stocks were: KSE-100 Index Maintains Positive Long-Term Trend Despite Tuesday’s correction, the KSE-100 Index continues to post solid gains over both the fiscal and calendar year. Since the start of the current fiscal year, the benchmark has gained 5,954 points, representing an increase of 3.30%. On a calendar-year basis, the index has advanced by 12,201 points, delivering a return of approximately 7.01%. While the broader bullish trend remains intact, analysts expect short-term volatility to persist as investors closely monitor developments in the Strait of Hormuz, international crude oil prices, corporate earnings, and other global economic indicators that could influence market direction.

InfraZamin-Guaranteed, Bank of Punjab-Led Consortium Announce Financial Close of PKR 4.76 billion 10-Year Islamic Syndicated Financing for Air Link Communication Limited and Select Technologies Limited
Pakistan

Banking Consortium Secures PKR 4.76 Billion Islamic Financing for Air Link and Select Technologies Expansion

A banking consortium led by The Bank of Punjab, in partnership with InfraZamin Pakistan Limited, has achieved the financial close of a PKR 4.76 billion 10-year Islamic syndicated term finance facility for Air Link Communication Limited and Select Technologies Limited. The financing will support the expansion of smartphone, consumer electronics, and home appliance manufacturing at the Sundar Green Special Economic Zone, boosting local production, employment, and Pakistan’s industrialization agenda. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sbp-caps-minimum-savings-profit-protection-at-rs10-million-to-promote-investpak-and-government-securities/ KARACHI: A consortium of leading financial institutions, managed by The Bank of Punjab (BOP) and supported by InfraZamin Pakistan Limited, has successfully closed a PKR 4.76 billion 10-year Islamic Syndicated Term Finance Facility for Air Link Communication Limited and its wholly owned subsidiary Select Technologies Limited. The financing will fund the expansion of advanced manufacturing facilities at the Sundar Green Special Economic Zone, strengthening Pakistan’s domestic production of smartphones, consumer electronics, and home appliances while supporting the country’s import substitution and industrial development strategy. Banking Consortium Backs Landmark Islamic Financing The financing consortium comprises The Bank of Punjab, Askari Bank Limited, BankIslami Pakistan Limited, and Pak China Investment Company Limited, which acted as Mandated Lead Advisors and Arrangers (MLAAs). InfraZamin Pakistan Limited provided a PKR 3.57 billion credit guarantee, enabling the companies to secure a 10-year financing facility with improved pricing and an extended repayment tenure. The Bank of Punjab also served as the Intercreditor Agent, Investment Agent, Security Agent, Account Bank, and Shariah Advisor for the transaction. Expansion to Boost Local Manufacturing The financing will enable Air Link and Select Technologies to expand manufacturing capacity for smartphones, consumer electronics, and home appliances at the Sundar Green Special Economic Zone. The investment is expected to support Pakistan’s industrialization goals by increasing local production and reducing reliance on imported electronic products. As part of the project, a 1-megawatt solar power plant will also be installed to lower operating costs while reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 700 tonnes annually. Project to Produce Over One Million Smartphones Annually According to the companies, the expanded facility is expected to manufacture more than one million affordable smartphones each year, helping improve digital access and internet connectivity across Pakistan. The project is also expected to create approximately 450 direct jobs within five years, with 25% to 30% of positions reserved for women, promoting greater female participation in Pakistan’s manufacturing sector. Air Link Strengthens ‘Made in Pakistan’ Vision Air Link Communication Limited is one of Pakistan’s leading technology companies engaged in the distribution, retail, and manufacturing of mobile phones and consumer electronics. The company partners with several global brands, including Samsung, Apple (Authorized Reseller), Xiaomi, TECNO, itel, Acer, and iMiki. Its subsidiary, Select Technologies Limited, manufactures smartphones and consumer appliances locally through partnerships with Xiaomi and Hisense. The transaction follows Select Technologies’ successful Initial Public Offering (IPO), reflecting growing investor confidence in Pakistan’s electronics manufacturing sector. CEO Says Financing Will Drive Innovation and Employment Commenting on the transaction, Muzzaffar Hayat Piracha, Chief Executive Officer of Air Link Communication Limited, said the financing would accelerate the company’s “Made in Pakistan” strategy. He said the 10-year financing facility backed by InfraZamin would support innovation, product expansion, and the creation of direct and indirect employment opportunities, particularly for Pakistan’s youth and women. InfraZamin Highlights Industrial Growth Maheen Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of InfraZamin Pakistan Limited, said the financing would strengthen local manufacturing, improve digital inclusion, generate employment, and create export opportunities. She noted that collaboration between commercial banks and development finance institutions demonstrates how innovative financing structures can support sustainable industrial investment. Banks Call Transaction a Milestone for Islamic Finance Officials from The Bank of Punjab, Askari Bank, BankIslami Pakistan, and Pak China Investment Company described the transaction as a landmark achievement for Pakistan’s industrial financing landscape. They said the blended finance structure, supported by InfraZamin’s credit guarantee, demonstrates the growing role of innovative Islamic financing solutions in mobilizing long-term private capital for strategic industrial investments. The consortium added that the transaction establishes a new benchmark for Islamic syndicated financing while reinforcing confidence in Pakistan’s manufacturing sector and sustainable economic development.

Pakistan Business Council Pitches $1.9 Billion Export in 12 months to Finance Minister
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Pakistan Business Council Pitches $1.9 Billion Export in 12 months to Finance Minister

The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) has presented an export acceleration strategy to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, targeting up to $1.9 billion in additional exports over the next 12 months. The proposal focuses on value-added manufacturing, policy stability, and stronger public-private collaboration to boost Pakistan’s export competitiveness and foreign exchange earnings. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/sbp-caps-minimum-savings-profit-protection-at-rs10-million-to-promote-investpak-and-government-securities/ ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) has presented an ambitious export acceleration plan to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, outlining a roadmap to generate between $1.1 billion and $1.9 billion in additional exports over the next 12 months. The proposal was discussed during a meeting held on Monday as part of consultations for Pakistan’s next budget and medium-term economic strategy. PBC Targets Up to $1.9 Billion in Additional Exports According to the Pakistan Business Council, the proposed strategy aims to generate between $450 million and $700 million in additional exports during the first half of FY2026-27, with total incremental exports reaching as much as $1.9 billion within one year. The council believes the target can be achieved through timely policy reforms, improved market access, enhanced competitiveness, and stronger support for export-oriented industries. Brand Pakistan Strategy Focuses on Value-Added Exports The presentation was led by PBC Chairperson Dr. Zeelaf Munir, who emphasized the need for Pakistan to shift from commodity-based exports toward higher-value, brand-driven products. She said the country’s export strategy should focus on building a stronger global identity for Pakistani products. “Brand Pakistan is not limited to one sector. It is a national export strategy.” The council urged the government to implement key policy enablers that would help exporters compete more effectively in international markets. Finance Minister Welcomes Private Sector Input Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb welcomed the Pakistan Business Council’s recommendations and described the engagement as the beginning of discussions on Pakistan’s medium-term tax and budget policy. He said: “This visit to the PBC is a discussion invitation for starting the medium-term tax and budget policy.” The finance minister appreciated the private sector’s proactive role in supporting export-led economic growth and encouraged continued collaboration on policy development. PBC Recommends Sector-Specific Export Reforms The PBC delegation presented recommendations covering several key export sectors, including: The proposals highlighted the importance of policy stability, export financing, regulatory facilitation, cost competitiveness, and expanded market access. Public-Private Partnership Key to Export Growth PBC CEO Javed Kureishi reaffirmed the council’s commitment to working closely with the government on practical, private sector-led reforms. Both sides agreed on the need for a time-bound action plan to remove structural barriers, improve competitiveness, and unlock the export potential of Pakistan’s industrial sectors. The proposed strategy aligns with the government’s broader objectives of strengthening economic stability, increasing foreign exchange earnings, and diversifying Pakistan’s export basket through value-added production.

Government Approves NBFC Inclusion in Apna Ghar Scheme to Expand Housing Finance Access
Pakistan

Government Approves NBFC Inclusion in Apna Ghar Scheme to Expand Housing Finance Access

The federal government has approved the inclusion of lending Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) as Participating Financial Institutions under the Prime Minister’s Apna Ghar Program (PM-APG). The move is expected to broaden access to affordable housing finance by allowing eligible NBFCs and microfinance companies to offer subsidized home loans to underserved segments across Pakistan. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ayatollah-ali-khamenei-funeral-begins-as-millions-gather-in-tehran/ ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved the inclusion of lending Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) as Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs) under the Prime Minister’s Apna Ghar Program (PM-APG), significantly expanding access to affordable housing finance for first-time homebuyers. The decision follows a proposal by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and is aimed at extending housing finance beyond traditional banking channels to reach a larger segment of the population. NBFCs to Offer Housing Loans Under Apna Ghar Program Under the approved framework, eligible non-banking housing finance companies and investment finance companies will be able to provide home loans of up to PKR 10 million under the Apna Ghar Scheme. Meanwhile, microfinance companies participating in the program will be authorized to extend housing loans of up to PKR 5 million, enabling lower-income households to access affordable financing options. The inclusion of NBFCs is expected to increase competition in the housing finance market while improving access for individuals with limited relationships with conventional banks. Subsidized Home Loans for First-Time Buyers The government’s housing scheme continues to offer attractive financing terms for eligible first-time homebuyers. Successful applicants can obtain home financing with repayment periods of up to 20 years, while benefiting from a subsidized 5% mark-up rate for the first 10 years of the loan. The program also includes risk coverage measures designed to support both borrowers and participating financial institutions. SECP Issues Regulatory Framework for Participating NBFCs Following the approval, the SECP has introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework outlining the operational requirements for NBFCs participating in the scheme. The guidelines cover: The framework aims to ensure responsible lending practices while maintaining transparency and financial stability. Move Expected to Boost Financial Inclusion The inclusion of NBFCs under the Prime Minister’s Apna Ghar Program is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s housing finance ecosystem and improve financial inclusion. By allowing a wider range of financial institutions to participate, the government aims to make home ownership more accessible for underserved communities and middle-income households across the country. Implementation of the initiative will take place through direct lending by eligible NBFCs as well as partnerships with banks and development finance institutions where required.

SBP Formally Launches InvestPak Portal for Digital Investment in Government Securities
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SBP Formally Launches InvestPak Portal for Digital Investment in Government Securities

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has formally launched InvestPak, a digital investment platform that enables retail and corporate investors to invest directly in Government of Pakistan securities through a web portal and mobile application. The initiative aims to simplify access to sovereign investments, promote financial inclusion, and expand retail participation in Pakistan’s government securities market. KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially launched InvestPak, a dedicated digital platform that allows retail and corporate investors to invest directly in Government of Pakistan securities through an integrated web portal and mobile application. Alongside the platform’s launch, SBP also unveiled a nationwide media campaign to raise public awareness and encourage broader participation in the country’s sovereign debt market. InvestPak to Digitize Investment in Government Securities The launch ceremony was held at SBP’s headquarters in Karachi and was hosted by Governor SBP Jameel Ahmad. The event was attended by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb as the chief guest, along with senior SBP officials, bank presidents, corporate leaders, insurance companies, mutual funds, and representatives from Pakistan’s banking and financial sector. InvestPak has been developed to fully digitize the investment process for Government of Pakistan securities, making it easier for individuals and institutions to access sovereign investment opportunities without extensive paperwork. Finance Minister Says InvestPak Will Democratize Investment Addressing the ceremony, Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb praised SBP’s efforts to leverage technology in support of the government’s vision for a digitally enabled and financially inclusive economy. He said: “InvestPak represents a decisive step toward democratizing investment in Pakistan by giving ordinary citizens especially youth, corporates, and institutions direct digital access to safe sovereign investment opportunities. This is about making participation in the formal financial sector simpler, more inclusive, and more accessible for every segment of society.” The finance minister added that a broader investor base would allow banks to devote greater resources to private sector lending, strengthening productive economic activity across the country. SBP Governor Calls InvestPak a Milestone for Pakistan’s Financial Sector In his welcome address, SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad described InvestPak as “a defining milestone in the evolution of Pakistan’s financial landscape.” He said the platform reflects the central bank’s commitment to promoting inclusive, sustainable, and digital financial services under its Strategic Vision 2028. According to the governor, InvestPak is more than a technology platform and represents the realization of a long-term vision to create a more inclusive, efficient, and transparent government securities market. He added that the initiative would usher in a new era of digital access and financial empowerment for investors across Pakistan. SBP Launches Nationwide Awareness Campaign Highlighting the importance of public engagement, the SBP governor said technology alone cannot drive adoption without awareness. He noted that the central bank aims to make sovereign investments a household topic through coordinated campaigns across print media, social media platforms, and FM radio stations. The governor reaffirmed SBP’s commitment to improving market efficiency through automation, transparency, and the adoption of international best practices. InvestPak Offers Easy Access for Retail and Corporate Investors According to SBP, the platform is expected to benefit individual investors, women investors, small savers, corporates, and other market participants by offering a streamlined and transparent investment process. Key features of InvestPak include: The platform enables investors to manage their investments conveniently from their homes or offices through both web and mobile applications. How to Access InvestPak SBP said investors can access the InvestPak portal through its official website, while the InvestPak mobile application is available on both the Google Play Store for Android devices and the Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad users.

Lucky Investments Launches Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund to Expand Shariah-Compliant Investment Options
Pakistan

Lucky Investments Launches Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund to Expand Shariah-Compliant Investment Options

Lucky Investments Limited has launched the Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund (LIDYF), a new open-end Shariah-compliant equity fund aimed at providing investors with competitive Halal returns through investments in dividend-paying listed companies while offering long-term capital appreciation. The Fund expands the company’s Islamic investment portfolio and is designed for investors seeking sustainable dividend income, professional portfolio management, and diversified exposure to high-quality Shariah-compliant equities. KARACHI: Lucky Investments Limited has announced the launch of the Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund (LIDYF), an open-end Shariah-compliant equity fund designed to provide investors with competitive Halal returns through investments in dividend-yielding Shariah-compliant listed companies while offering the potential for long-term capital appreciation. The launch comes amid growing demand for Islamic investment products in Pakistan and further strengthens Lucky Investments’ portfolio of Shariah-compliant financial solutions. Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund Aims to Deliver Halal Income and Long-Term Growth The Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund has been designed for investors seeking sustainable dividend income alongside long-term capital appreciation through investments in high dividend-paying Shariah-compliant listed companies. According to Lucky Investments, the Fund follows a disciplined investment strategy under the supervision of professional portfolio managers while maintaining prudent risk oversight. By focusing primarily on quality dividend-paying Shariah-compliant companies listed on the stock exchange, the Fund aims to generate regular Halal income while helping investors build long-term wealth. Lucky Investments Expands Its Islamic Investment Portfolio With the introduction of the Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund, Lucky Investments has broadened its suite of Islamic investment products to serve investors with varying financial goals and risk appetites. The company’s Shariah-compliant offerings now include solutions for: The expanded product range is intended to provide investors with greater flexibility in building diversified Islamic investment portfolios. CEO Highlights Commitment to Shariah-Compliant Investing Commenting on the launch, Mohammad Shoaib, CFA, Chief Executive Officer of Lucky Investments Limited, said: “Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund reflects our commitment to provide investors innovative, professionally managed Shariah-compliant investment solutions. Dividend-paying equities have historically played an important role in long-term wealth creation, and this Fund enables investors to participate in quality businesses while seeking regular Halal income and capital appreciation through a disciplined investment approach.” He added that dividend-paying equities have consistently contributed to long-term wealth creation and that the Fund provides investors with an opportunity to participate in quality businesses while earning regular Halal income. Who Can Invest in the Lucky Islamic Dividend Yield Fund? The Fund is particularly suitable for investors looking for: Investors can subscribe through Lucky Investments’ nationwide branch network, the digital investor portal, the Lucky Funds mobile application, and the company’s authorized distribution partners across Pakistan. Rising Demand for Islamic Mutual Funds in Pakistan Pakistan’s Islamic asset management industry continues to witness steady growth as more investors seek Shariah-compliant investment options that combine ethical investing with competitive returns. Dividend-focused Islamic equity funds are increasingly becoming a preferred choice for investors aiming to generate regular income while achieving long-term capital appreciation.

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