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May 18th, 2025: Digital Wallets 2025–2029: The Rise of a Borderless Financial Ecosystem

Imagine paying your bills, applying for a loan, booking a doctor’s appointment, and sending money abroad — all from one app on your phone. For billions of people, this isn’t a vision of the future. It’s already happening. And by 2029, nearly two-thirds of the global population — about 5.3 billion people — will be using digital wallets daily, according to projections from Juniper Research and Boston Consulting Group. What started as a simple tap-and-go alternative to cash is rapidly evolving into something much bigger: a foundational layer of the global digital economy. And it’s reshaping how individuals, businesses, and even governments move, manage, and interact with money. The Surge of Digital Wallets: A Global Snapshot From Asia to Latin America, digital wallets are experiencing explosive growth in both users and transaction volumes. By 2025, they’re expected to process over $10 trillion in payments globally — a number projected to reach $17 trillion by 2029. Let’s take a quick tour of what this looks like around the world: China Brazil & Latin America Asia-Pacific (APAC) Middle East & Africa More Than Just Payments: The Rise of the Super App Digital wallets are evolving into super apps — multifunctional platforms that offer far more than transactions. Some now include: In markets like China and Southeast Asia, platforms like Alipay and Grab even offer restaurant bookings, healthcare, travel, and job listings — essentially becoming digital lifestyle hubs. The Roadblocks to Global Adoption Despite this momentum, there are still big challenges to solve: 1. Fragmented Ecosystems Wallets often can’t talk to each other. Even within countries, lack of interoperability reduces their usefulness. Projects like BIS’s Project Nexus aim to connect national payment systems globally, but it’s still early days. 2. Complex Regulations Regulatory environments vary wildly. Compliance with GDPR (Europe), PDPL (UAE), DPDP Act (India), and other national laws demands expensive infrastructure. Add KYC/AML standards and digital ID policies, and the compliance maze becomes even more intricate. 3. Access & Infrastructure Gaps Many rural areas still struggle with low internet speeds, limited smartphone access, and low digital literacy. And the gender gap remains real — women in many developing nations are still 7–10% less likely to own or use mobile wallets. 4. Cultural Resistance In countries like Germany or Japan, where cash and traditional banks still dominate, digital wallets have seen slower uptake. Cultural trust and habits shape adoption more than technology alone. What’s Next? The Future of Digital Identity and Finance The next five years will be crucial. Digital wallets have the potential to become gateways to identity, access, and opportunity — especially for unbanked and underbanked populations. Emerging priorities include: Final Thoughts We’re not just digitizing cash — we’re building a borderless financial operating system. Digital wallets will become our keys to the global economy. The question isn’t whether they’ll dominate — that part is already happening. The real question is:Can governments, fintechs, banks, and regulators come together fast enough to make digital wallets work securely, inclusively, and at scale? Because if they can — the future of finance will truly be in your pocket.

May 18th, 2025: Digital Wallets 2025–2029: The Rise of a Borderless Financial Ecosystem Read More »

May 11th, 2025: Pakistan’s Remittances Reach $3.2 Billion in April 2025, Drop 22% Month-on-Month

According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday, the country received $3.2 billion in remittances from overseas workers in April 2025. This represents a 13.1% increase compared to the $2.81 billion received in April 2024. However, on a month-on-month (MoM) basis, remittances dropped by 22% from the $4.1 billion recorded in March. Cumulatively, remittances rose 31% during the first ten months of the fiscal year (July–April FY25), reaching $31.2 billion—up from $23.9 billion in the same period of FY24. Remittances continue to play a vital role in stabilizing Pakistan’s external account, boosting economic activity, and increasing disposable income for households that rely on overseas earnings. Last month, SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad expressed optimism over the country’s external position, citing strong remittance inflows as a reason to expect a current account surplus for the entire fiscal year. “This will be a substantial surplus and marks the best external account performance in the past two decades,” he stated. Remittance Breakdown by Country

May 11th, 2025: Pakistan’s Remittances Reach $3.2 Billion in April 2025, Drop 22% Month-on-Month Read More »

April 27th, 2025: Fintech Foundations; Navigating Basic Concepts of Digital Banking, Payments, and Compliance in Pakistan and the GCC

The fintech revolution is rapidly transforming financial ecosystems across Pakistan and the GCC, reshaping how individuals and businesses access, move, and manage money.Driven by government initiatives, evolving consumer behaviors, and cutting-edge technologies, both regions are witnessing an unprecedented surge in digital payments, digital banking, and innovative financial services. Understanding the underlying platforms, regulatory landscapes, and growth opportunities is essential for anyone looking to build or expand in this dynamic sector. This article provides a structured, practical roadmap to the fintech architecture, processes, and opportunities shaping the future of finance in Pakistan and the GCC. What is Fintech? Fintech (Financial Technology) refers to the integration of technology into offerings by financial services companies to improve their use and delivery to consumers. It includes digital banking, payments, lending, investment platforms, insurance tech, and more.  Basic Structure of Fintech 1. Core Components 2. Stakeholders  Key Processes in Fintech  Fintech Architecture (Simplified)  [User App / Web Interface]        |        v [API Gateway / Middleware Layer]        |        +–> KYC Verification (NADRA, ID Services)        +–> Payment Processor (Stripe, Checkout, PayFast)        +–> Core Banking System (Temenos, Mambu, Custom Build)        +–> Notification Systems (SMS, Email, WhatsApp)        +–> Reporting & Analytics (Google Data Studio, Power BI) Fintech Architecture – Detailed Overview Fintech architecture is typically modular, API-driven, and built for scalability and security. Here’s a layered breakdown: 1.  User Interface Layer (Frontend) 🔧 Tools: Flutter, React Native, Next.js, HTML/CSS, BotPress 2.  API Gateway / Middleware Layer Acts as the central nervous system, managing communication between frontend and backend. 🔧 Tools: Postman, AWS API Gateway, Kong, Apigee 3.  Authentication & Identity Layer 🔧 Tools: Auth0, Firebase Auth, Twilio Verify, Okta 4.  Payments & Transactions Layer This layer handles actual money movement: 🔧 Components: 5.  Core Banking / Ledger Layer This is the heart of any fintech dealing with money: 🔧 Platforms: 6.  Integration Layer Used to talk to external systems: 7.  Data, Analytics & BI Layer 🔧 Tools: Power BI, Google Data Studio, Metabase, Snowflake 8.  Notifications & Communication Layer 🔧 Tools: Twilio, SendGrid, Firebase Cloud Messaging 9.  Security & Compliance Layer 🔧 Standards: PCI-DSS, ISO/IEC 27001, GDPR  Sample Data Flow: A QR Payment Example (Pakistan + GCC) csharp CopyEdit [User Scans Merchant QR]        ↓ [App Sends Payment Request]        ↓ [API Gateway Verifies JWT + Routes Request]        ↓ [QR Code Payment Engine Decodes Data]        ↓ [Core Ledger Checks Balance]        ↓ [Funds Debited from Wallet or Linked Account]        ↓ [Transaction Logged + Receipt Issued]        ↓ [Merchant Notified + Funds Settled via Raast/Mada]        ↓ [Confirmation Sent to User + Reconciled] Critical Platforms and Partners (Pakistan and GCC) Platform / Tool Pakistan GCC Raast Instant low-cost payments (P2P, P2M, G2P) via SBP’s Raast platform No direct Raast equivalent; GCC uses local RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement) 1LINK ATM network, IBFT (Interbank Funds Transfer) switch Similar services via UAEFTS (UAE Fund Transfer System), Mada in Saudi Arabia NADRA e-KYC Customer ID verification through NADRA Verisys Emirates ID KYC (UAE), National ID Integration (Saudi Arabia) PayFast, NIFT ePay Online payment gateways for local e-commerce and merchants PayTabs, Telr, PayFort (now Amazon Payment Services) for GCC online payments JazzCash, Easypaisa Leading mobile wallets for P2P transfers and merchant payments STC Pay (Saudi Arabia), Apple Pay, Google Pay, Careem Pay (UAE) UBL, HBL, Meezan Bank APIs API integrations for payment, transfers, account opening Open Banking APIs through banks like ADCB, Mashreq, FAB (UAE), and SAMA-regulated APIs in Saudi Arabia BNPL Services               Baadmay                                         Tabby , Tamara  Compliance and Regulation (Pakistan and GCC) Regulator Pakistan GCC Central Bank State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) UAE Central Bank, SAMA (Saudi Central Bank), CBB (Bahrain Central Bank) Financial Market Regulator SECP – Regulates investment, crowdfunding, insurance sectors DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority), ADGM, CMA (Saudi Capital Markets Authority) Telecommunication Authority PTA – Regulates SMS, digital communications TDRA (UAE), CITC (Saudi Arabia) for regulating mobile-based digital platforms Payment Licensing EMI Licensing, PSP, PSO Licensing from SBP Payment Service Provider licenses issued by Central Bank UAE, SAMA Licensing (Saudi) Data Protection / Cyber Law Drafted under PECA (Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act), now evolving further Strict under DIFC Data Protection Law, Bahrain Data Law, and KSA Cybersecurity laws Key Guidelines Across Both Regions: Opportunities and Challenges (Pakistan and GCC) Challenges Pakistan GCC Slow Bank Integrations Traditional banks slow in tech partnerships Big banks cautious but improving Cybersecurity Threats Increasing fintech attacks (especially wallets) Strict cybersecurity compliance, huge fines Financial Literacy Gaps Rural and lower-income segments need education Expat workers segment less educated in digital finance Cost of Compliance High cost for AML, KYC, SBP reporting Licensing fees and regulatory compliance are expensive Trust Building Among Lower Income Segments Fintech adoption low outside major cities Language, trust, and cultural adaptation challenges As Pakistan and the GCC continue to accelerate their digital transformation journeys, fintech stands at the heart of financial innovation and economic inclusion. By understanding the critical platforms, compliance frameworks, and emerging opportunities across regions, businesses and entrepreneurs can strategically position themselves for sustainable growth. Whether it’s enabling merchant payments, streamlining remittances, or building the next generation of digital banking solutions, the future belongs to those who invest in structured, secure, and customer-centric fintech models. The time to act is now — to bridge markets, build trust, and reshape finance across borders.

April 27th, 2025: Fintech Foundations; Navigating Basic Concepts of Digital Banking, Payments, and Compliance in Pakistan and the GCC Read More »

April 20th, 2025: Pakistan Achieves Historic $4.1 Billion in Remittances for March 2025: SBP

In a landmark achievement, Pakistan received a record-breaking $4.1 billion in workers’ remittances during March 2025, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad. This is the highest monthly figure ever recorded for remittances in the country’s history. Speaking at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) to mark the start of Financial Literacy Week, Governor Ahmad announced that the SBP has revised its annual forecast for remittance inflows to $38 billion for FY2024-25—up from an earlier estimate of $36 billion. SBP’s data confirms that remittances surged by 37% year-on-year, compared to $2.95 billion in March 2024. Month-over-month, the growth stood at an impressive 30%, rising from $3.12 billion in February 2025. The SBP governor expressed confidence that Pakistan’s current account will remain in surplus throughout the fiscal year, highlighting this as the most robust external account performance in two decades. Ahmad also announced an upward revision of Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves forecast. The SBP now expects to hold $14 billion in reserves by the end of June 2025, compared to the earlier projection of $13 billion. Despite recent outflows due to debt repayments, the SBP’s reserves currently stand at $10.6 billion. He projected an inflow of $4–5 billion from international financial institutions and other external sources by June’s end, further boosting the reserves. Economic activity in the country appears to be gaining momentum, with imports rising to $5.7 billion per month. “Those who believe that import restrictions are stalling economic activity should take a closer look at the data,” Ahmad remarked. On the macroeconomic front, the SBP expects Pakistan’s GDP to grow by 3% in FY25. Ahmad noted that the growth rate could have reached 4.2% had the agriculture sector maintained last year’s strong performance of 8%. Meanwhile, inflation is expected to tick upward in the coming months, following a historic low of 0.7% recorded in March 2025—the lowest in six decades.

April 20th, 2025: Pakistan Achieves Historic $4.1 Billion in Remittances for March 2025: SBP Read More »

April 1st, 2025: Pakistan’s Digital Transactions Surge: 88% of Retail Payments Now Digital in Q2-FY25.

Pakistan’s Digital Transactions Surge: 88% of Retail Payments Now Digital Pakistan’s financial ecosystem is experiencing a significant digital shift, with digital channels processing 88% of all retail transactions. Mobile banking apps, branchless banking (BB) wallets, and e-money wallets collectively handled 1,450 million transactions worth Rs. 24 trillion in Q2-FY25. This marks a 12% increase in volume and a 28% rise in transaction value, as per the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) Quarterly Payment Systems Review. The expansion of digital banking services is reflected in the increasing number of users across different platforms: 21 million mobile banking users (7% increase). 4.7 million e-money wallet users (13% increase). 64.3 million BB wallet users (7% increase). 13.3 million internet banking users (7% increase). This growing user base is a testament to the increasing trust and adoption of digital financial services in Pakistan. E-commerce transactions have seen substantial growth, indicating a shift toward cashless transactions: 152 million e-commerce transactions, up 30% in volume. Total value reached Rs. 193 billion, reflecting a 32% increase. 8% (12.8 million transactions) were made via cards, while 92% (139.5 million) were conducted through digital wallets/accounts. In terms of value, cards contributed 33%, while digital wallets accounted for 67%. Merchant payments through 115,177 POS-enabled merchants using 151,646 terminals also experienced growth: 89 million in-store transactions (7% increase). Rs. 510 billion total transaction value (19% increase). Additionally, retail and kiryana stores accepting QR code or BB wallet payments processed 22.1 million transactions worth Rs. 58 billion, marking 4% and 9% growth, respectively. Pakistan’s digital financial ecosystem is supported by SBP-operated payment systems, which have played a crucial role in accelerating digital payments: Raast processed 296 million transactions worth Rs. 6.4 trillion in Q2-FY25. Since its launch, Raast has facilitated 1,144 million transactions valued at Rs. 26 trillion. RTGS settled large-value transactions worth Rs. 330 trillion, marking a 19% increase in value. These systems have significantly improved the speed, reliability, and efficiency of digital transactions in Pakistan. Retail transactions also showed strong growth: 2,143 million transactions, reflecting an 11% increase in volume. Total transaction value reached Rs. 154 trillion, a 12% rise. This growth was largely driven by: Mobile banking transactions Internet banking payments Over-the-counter (OTC) banking services Pakistan’s journey towards a cashless economy is being propelled by SBP’s strategic initiatives and partnerships with banks, fintech firms, and payment service providers. As digital payments continue to expand, SBP remains focused on: Enhancing financial inclusion. Improving payment system efficiency. Encouraging innovation in digital banking. Conclusion: Digital Payments Are Reshaping Pakistan’s Economy The rapid growth in digital transactions, increasing user adoption, and expansion of digital payment infrastructure signal a strong shift towards a digital financial ecosystem in Pakistan. With continued regulatory support and technological advancements, the country is on track to further drive financial inclusion and economic digitization.

April 1st, 2025: Pakistan’s Digital Transactions Surge: 88% of Retail Payments Now Digital in Q2-FY25. Read More »

Mar 19th, 2025: Pakistan Posts $691M Current Account Surplus in Jul-Feb FY25, Driven by $24B Remittances Despite 11% Import Surge

Pakistan’s external account exhibited a notable improvement in the first eight months of FY25 (July-February), posting a $691 million current account surplus. This shift from a $1.73 billion deficit in FY24 is primarily driven by a 32% year-on-year increase in remittances, which reached $24 billion by January 2025. However, external pressures are mounting, as imports continue to rise, leading to monthly deficits in January ($399M) and February ($12M) after three months of surplus. Key Trends & Factors 1️⃣ Surplus vs. Last Year’s Deficit 2️⃣ 11% Growth in Imports Leading to Deficits 3️⃣ Financial Inflows & Economic Outlook Conclusion: A Balancing Act for Pakistan’s External Account Despite the positive impact of remittances, rising imports and slow financial inflows pose risks to the external account. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Pakistan can sustain a surplus or face a growing deficit, especially with global commodity price fluctuations and pending financial inflows from international institutions. While the current account surplus signals a positive shift, sustained external stability will depend on managing import growth, securing financial inflows, and maintaining remittance momentum. The expected IMF funding and other foreign inflows will be critical in addressing financing gaps. Moving forward, Pakistan must focus on export diversification, investment inflows, and trade balance improvements to ensure long-term economic resilience.

Mar 19th, 2025: Pakistan Posts $691M Current Account Surplus in Jul-Feb FY25, Driven by $24B Remittances Despite 11% Import Surge Read More »

Mar 10th, 2025: Pakistan’s Remittance Inflows Reach $3.1 Billion in February 2025, Marking a 3.8% Monthly Increase

The inflow of remittances from overseas workers into Pakistan stood at $3.1 billion in February 2025, reflecting a 3.8% rise from the $3 billion received in January 2025, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Monday. On a year-on-year basis, remittances surged by 38.6% compared to the $2.25 billion recorded in February 2024. Cumulatively, during the first eight months of FY25 (July-February), Pakistan received $24.0 billion in remittances, marking a significant 32.5% increase from the $18.1 billion received in the same period of FY24. Home remittances continue to play a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s external account, boosting economic activity, and improving the financial well-being of remittance-dependent households. Breakdown of Remittance Sources With a steady rise in remittance inflows, Pakistan continues to benefit from the financial contributions of its overseas workforce, supporting both individual households and the broader economy.

Mar 10th, 2025: Pakistan’s Remittance Inflows Reach $3.1 Billion in February 2025, Marking a 3.8% Monthly Increase Read More »

Feb 27th, 2025: Roshan Digital Account: A Complete Guide for Overseas Pakistanis

This complete guide explains its benefits, eligibility, required documents, and step-by-step process for overseas Pakistanis. Looking to open a Roshan Digital Account (RDA)? Open your account today and invest in Naya Pakistan Certificates, real estate, and the stock market—100% online!” 🔹 What is Roshan Digital Account? The Roshan Digital Account (RDA) is a secure, hassle-free banking solution designed for Non-Resident Pakistanis (NRPs). It allows expats to open and operate a Pakistani bank account online from anywhere in the world. With RDA, you can:✅ Send & receive money in PKR or foreign currency✅ Invest in Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs) for high returns✅ Buy property in Pakistan through Roshan Apna Ghar✅ Trade in the stock market via PSX✅ Pay bills, school fees, and transfer funds easily✅ Repatriate funds freely without restrictions ✅ Best part? No need to visit a bank—apply online in just 48 hours! 🔹 Who Can Open a Roshan Digital Account? To open an RDA, you must be:✔ A Non-Resident Pakistani (NRP)✔ A Pakistani with declared assets abroad✔ A Foreign National of Pakistani Origin (NICOP/POC holder) 🔹 Resident Pakistanis can open an RDA only in foreign currency. 🔹 Documents Required to Open an RDA 📌 Valid Passport (Pakistani or foreign)📌 CNIC/NICOP/POC (for Pakistani-origin foreigners)📌 Proof of NRP Status (Visa, Work Permit, etc.)📌 Proof of Income/Employment (Job letter, salary slip, or business docs)📌 Recent Photograph & Signature Specimen ✅ No paperwork, no bank visits – everything is done online! 🔹 How to Open a Roshan Digital Account? (Step-by-Step Process) Opening an RDA is simple and takes just 48 hours: 1️⃣ Choose a Bank Top Pakistani banks offering RDA: UBL Roshan Digital Account (Recommended) HBL, Meezan, MCB, Standard Chartered, and others 2️⃣ Fill Out the Online Form Enter personal details Upload required documents Choose account type (PKR, USD, GBP, etc.) 3️⃣ Verification & Approval Bank verifies documents & identity Account is activated within 24-48 hours 4️⃣ Fund Your Account & Start Using It Transfer money from your foreign bank Invest, pay bills, and manage funds online ✅ It’s that simple! 🔹 Why Choose a Roshan Digital Account? 🔹 100% Online & Hassle-Free – Open & operate from anywhere🔹 Earn Up to 7% in USD via Naya Pakistan Certificates🔹 Invest in Stocks, Real Estate & Government Bonds🔹 Instant Fund Transfers & No Minimum Balance🔹 Withdraw & Repatriate Money Anytime ✅ Did you know? The Naya Pakistan Certificate offers higher returns than bank deposits in many countries! 🔹 UBL Roshan Digital Account – The Best Choice for Expats Looking for the best bank for your RDA? ✅ UBL Roshan Digital Account offers:✔ Quickest processing times✔ High investment returns✔ Seamless online banking Roshan Digital Account vs. Regular Bank Account – Key Differences Feature Roshan Digital Account (RDA) Regular Bank Account Who Can Open? Non-Resident Pakistanis (NRPs), Foreign Nationals of Pakistani Origin Only Resident Pakistanis Opening Process 100% Online (No branch visit required) Requires physical visit to a bank branch Currencies Available PKR, USD, GBP, EUR, & other major currencies Mostly PKR (foreign currency accounts are limited) Processing Time 24-48 Hours Several days to weeks Fund Repatriation Allowed without restrictions Limited or requires approvals Investment Options Naya Pakistan Certificates, Stock Market, Real Estate, Fixed Deposits Limited investment options Account Management Fully online through internet banking & mobile apps Requires branch visits for many services Minimum Balance Requirement No minimum balance required in most banks Varies by bank and account type Utility & Bill Payments Yes – Can pay bills, school fees, & donations Yes, but mainly for local users Tax Benefits No tax on profits from Naya Pakistan Certificates for NRPs Profits & deposits subject to tax deductions Loan & Financing Options Roshan Apna Ghar (Home Loan), Roshan Apni Car (Car Loan) Standard loans with more eligibility criteria Best For Non-Resident Pakistanis looking for easy banking, high-return investments & global transactions Resident Pakistanis for local banking & transactions 👉 100% online & approved within 48 hours! Ready to apply? Let ISTIQEME help you! Authorized GCC Partners for UBL Digital Banking ProductsApply Now | +971-527194185 or ubl.rda@istiqeme.nethttp://www.istiqeme.net

Feb 27th, 2025: Roshan Digital Account: A Complete Guide for Overseas Pakistanis Read More »

Feb 24th, 2025: SBP Introduces Raast Participation Criteria to Expand Digital Payments

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has released the Raast Participation Criteria, setting minimum requirements for entities interested in joining the Raast platform. These criteria ensure that participants possess the necessary functional and technical capabilities to offer digital payment services through Raast. Launched in 2021, Raast is an advanced instant payment system designed to enable quick, secure, and efficient fund transfers across Pakistan. The system supports bulk payments, person-to-person (P2P) transfers, person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions, and payment initiation services. Since its inception, 44 entities, including SBP-regulated and government organizations, have been onboarded as participants. To further drive the adoption of Raast and accelerate the digitization of the economy, the new Raast Participation Criteria aim to expand accessibility, promote digital payments, and foster innovation and competition in the financial sector. Who Can Participate in Raast? The following entities are eligible to apply for Raast participation: Entities currently in the licensing process with SBP and holding valid in-principle approval may also apply. Participant Categories Raast participants are classified into four categories: Onboarding Process Entities interested in joining Raast as DSPs, DNSPs, or PISPs must submit applications to SBP at Raast@sbp.org.pk. Those wishing to become Indirect Participants should coordinate with registered DSPs or DNSPs. Upon receiving an application, SBP will request the signing of a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Once the NDA is signed, the applicant will receive the Integration Specifications Package and be assigned a Relationship Officer for guidance. The applicant must review the specifications and sign the Participant Agreement within 10 working days. Following this, the applicant must: Submit a detailed integration project plan with timelines. Complete technical integration and provide a final report to SBP. Once SBP is satisfied with the integration process, conditional approval will be granted for a pilot phase. Upon successful completion, the participant will receive approval for commercial operations. If the applicant fails to meet SBP’s requirements at any stage, SBP reserves the right to terminate the process. It is important to note that onboarding an unregulated entity onto Raast does not imply SBP’s regulatory oversight of that entity. Encouraging Digital Payment Growth With the introduction of the Raast Participation Criteria, SBP aims to simplify the onboarding process for potential participants, significantly increase the number of entities using Raast, and boost digital payment adoption. This initiative is expected to encourage greater innovation and competition within the financial services market.

Feb 24th, 2025: SBP Introduces Raast Participation Criteria to Expand Digital Payments Read More »

Feb 16th, 2025: July-December 2024: Home Remittances Surge by 32.89% – A Positive Shift in Pakistan’s Financial Landscape

Analytical Review of the Surge in Home Remittances Overview of Growth Trends Home remittances experienced a significant 32.89% increase during the July-December 2024 period compared to the same timeframe the previous year. Total inflows stood at $17.845 billion, surpassing the $13.845 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2023 and the $14.435 billion seen in July-December 2023. This sharp increase exceeds the 24.9% growth recorded in July-December 2021, making it a notable recovery. However, this comparison must be understood in the context of the sharp decline in remittances in 2022, which was largely attributed to flawed foreign exchange policies under former Finance Minister Ishaq Dar. His intervention in currency markets, despite declining foreign reserves, led to multiple exchange rates and discouraged the use of official banking channels, pushing remitters toward informal systems such as hundi/hawala. Policy Impact and Market Correction The upward trend in remittances began in July-December 2023, coinciding with the government’s policy shift and agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement. The decision to abandon interventionist currency policies and incentivize remittances through formal channels played a crucial role in reversing the previous decline. If this growth trajectory is projected to the end of the fiscal year (June 30, 2025), total remittances could reach approximately $35.69 billion. This would represent an increase of $4.45 billion compared to the $31.2 billion recorded in the 2021-22 fiscal year. However, while policy adjustments have contributed to this recovery, external economic factors and structural shifts also play a critical role. Macroeconomic Drivers of Remittance Growth A July 2024 working paper by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), titled Understanding the Drivers of Remittances to Pakistan, identifies key macroeconomic factors influencing remittance flows: The study also highlights that remittance patterns are shaped by broader structural factors beyond these macroeconomic indicators. Migrants’ personal motivations—such as supporting families, investment opportunities, and perceptions of economic stability—play a critical role in sustaining remittance flows over time. Challenges Despite Positive Indicators While the government has cited a record-low Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 2.4% in January 2025, this figure does not reflect real economic conditions. Several key challenges persist: Strategic Implications and Policy Considerations The ADB study reinforces the critical role of remittances in stabilizing Pakistan’s balance of payments. As global economic conditions remain uncertain, policymakers must adopt a forward-looking approach to ensure these inflows remain strong. The government’s current focus is twofold: While these measures are essential, they do not address deeper structural issues. The ongoing brain drain and mass deportations of undocumented workers highlight the lack of sustainable employment opportunities within Pakistan. To mitigate this, a broader economic reform strategy is needed, including: Conclusion While remittance inflows have surged, the underlying economic challenges remain unresolved. A sustainable long-term strategy requires not only supporting remittance growth but also fostering domestic economic stability through structural reforms. Without these measures, Pakistan risks remaining overly dependent on remittance inflows while failing to address its broader economic vulnerabilities.

Feb 16th, 2025: July-December 2024: Home Remittances Surge by 32.89% – A Positive Shift in Pakistan’s Financial Landscape Read More »