Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu has said expanding the country’s investor base to 2.5 million remains one of the regulator’s top priorities as it pursues reforms aimed at modernizing Pakistan’s capital markets.
Dr. Sidhu made the remarks during a bell-ringing ceremony held in his honor at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), where he marked the commencement of trading and outlined the SECP’s vision for creating a more transparent, digital and investor-friendly financial ecosystem.
Capital Markets Key to Economic Growth
Addressing participants at the ceremony, Dr. Sidhu said strong corporations and vibrant capital markets are essential for Pakistan’s economic development.
He said companies create opportunities for investment, employment and prosperity, making a robust capital market critical for sustainable growth.
The SECP chairman emphasized that reforms are focused on people, technology and systems to support the country’s evolving financial landscape.
Digital Investment Opportunities for Young Investors
Dr. Sidhu said the regulator is introducing easy and digital investment channels to attract young investors and broaden public participation in the stock market.
He announced that short online courses would be launched to improve financial literacy and help citizens understand investment and trading mechanisms.
According to him, awareness campaigns related to investing and stock trading will also be conducted across the country to encourage more people to participate in capital markets.
IFMP Being Modernized
The SECP chairman said the Institute of Financial Markets of Pakistan (IFMP) is being restructured on modern lines to strengthen professional training in the financial sector.
He said the revamped institution would play a key role in developing skilled investors and enhancing the capabilities of financial market professionals.
The move forms part of broader efforts to improve financial education and promote informed investment decisions.
Investment Process to Become Simpler
Dr. Sidhu said the investor onboarding and account opening process is being simplified to improve accessibility.
He noted that the Central Depository Company (CDC) mobile application would further facilitate investments by making account management easier for users.
The SECP has also simplified Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements for Sahulat accounts to encourage greater participation from retail investors.
In addition, a broker referral program is expected to increase public involvement in the stock market.
Investor Education Fund to Support Market Development
The SECP chairman said the Capital Market Development Fund would be used to strengthen investor education and support market development initiatives.
He pointed to the success of recent initial public offerings (IPOs) as evidence of rising investor confidence in Pakistan’s capital markets.
According to Dr. Sidhu, the regulator is actively encouraging more companies to enter the market while improving access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and emerging businesses.
Fintech and Digital Finance Remain Key Priorities
Dr. Sidhu described fintech and digital finance as important pillars of Pakistan’s financial future.
He said technological innovation would continue to drive reforms across the financial sector.
The SECP is also introducing comprehensive reforms in the insurance industry. He said new insurance legislation is expected to bring significant changes to the sector.
Motor insurance data integration, he added, will enhance transparency and strengthen consumer protection.
Market Infrastructure Institutions to Be Strengthened
The SECP chairman said institutions including the Central Depository Company (CDC) and National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL) are being further strengthened.
He added that the regulatory framework is being aligned with modern international standards to improve efficiency and boost investor confidence.
The reforms, he said, are aimed at transforming Pakistan’s capital markets into a modern and inclusive ecosystem capable of supporting long-term economic growth.