Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s leading Islamic bank, has announced the renewal and expansion of its strategic partnership with Visa, a global leader in digital payments, aimed at further enhancing its debit card portfolio and redefining the banking experience for its customers across the country.

The collaboration was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Dr. Syed Amir Ali, Deputy CEO – Meezan Bank, and Leila Serhan, Visa’s Group Country Manager for North Africa, Levant & Pakistan. The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Irfan Siddiqui, Founding President & CEO – Meezan Bank, Mr. Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, Group Head Consumer Finance, along with other senior executives from both organizations.

As part of this renewed alliance, Meezan Bank, which operates one of the fastest-growing and Shariah-compliant debit card portfolios in the country, will introduce a range of premium and lifestyle-oriented Visa debit card products, offering customers exclusive benefits tailored to their evolving financial needs. These include enhanced digital banking services, access to global privileges, seamless international payment capabilities, and bespoke travel and lifestyle rewards. Rolled out in phases, these initiatives will transform how customers transact, manage, and experience digital payments, further positioning Meezan Bank’s position as a leader in digital Islamic banking in Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Irfan Siddiqui, Founding President & CEO – Meezan Bank, said:

“At Meezan Bank, we remain deeply committed to investing in our digital infrastructure to deliver a seamless, secure, and Shariah-compliant banking experience for our customers. Our collaboration with Visa takes this commitment further, empowering our debit card customers with advanced digital payment solutions that combine global standards while addressing local market needs. This partnership marks another milestone in our digital transformation journey as we continue to move an increasing share of retail transactions to digital channels.”

Umar Khan, Country Manager, Pakistan & Afghanistan at Visa, shared:

“Visa is proud to strengthen its partnership with Meezan Bank. Together, we aim to deliver cutting-edge, secure, and personalized payment solutions that align with the unique preferences of Pakistan’s growing Islamic banking consumers. This collaboration is a testament to our joint vision for building a digitally inclusive and innovative financial ecosystem in the country.”

This renewed partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between Meezan Bank and Visa, extending beyond card issuance. It reflects a shared commitment to innovation, digital inclusion, lifestyle benefits, and technology-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing customer experience and promoting a cashless ecosystem in Pakistan.

Meezan Bank and Mastercard Strengthen Cross-Border Payments with “Spend Big, Win Big!” Campaign

Engro Holdings Limited, previously Dawood Hercules Corporation Limited (PSX: ENGROH), announced its financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2025.

Overview of Financial Performance

For the nine months ended September 30, 2025, the Company’s consolidated Profit-After-Tax (PAT) stood at PKR 86,152 million (PAT attributable to shareholders: PKR 42,017 million) with an EPS of PKR 34.89 in 2025 vs PKR 13.21 in 2024. The increase primarily arises from reversal of previously recognized impairment during 2023 and 2024, linked to the thermal energy assets, which were previously classified as “held for sale”. Excluding this one-off impact, consolidated PAT attributable to shareholders stood at PKR 15,156 million.

On a standalone basis, the Company reported PAT of PKR 370 million against PKR 6,114 million in the same period last year, translating into an EPS of PKR 0.31 versus 12.70 in 2024. The decline is primarily due the transfer of income-generating investments to DH Partners under the Scheme of Arrangement that became effective on January 1, 2025, coupled with reduction in dividends from Engro Corp as it retains its earnings to fund the towers transaction.

Major Accounting Adjustments

The financial results for the period continued to reflect the accounting impacts of three key events: the creation of Engro Holdings, the termination of SPAs related to thermal energy assets, and the consolidation of Deodar Towers. Shareholders are advised that movements in reported EPS and PAT largely stem from structural changes and a one-time impairment reversal, rather than any shift in the underlying strength of the businesses.

Distribution to Shareholders

Your Board has chosen not to declare an interim dividend for 2025, reflecting a consistent and deliberate choice about where your capital creates the most value. Our immediate priority remains to fund the remaining requirements of the towers’ transaction. We continue to believe this is one of the most important investments in Engro’s history, with the potential to generate durable cashflows for years to come. Retaining earnings to support this investment is, in our view, the best way to build long-term value for shareholders.

Engro Secures Approvals for Landmark Partnership to Expand Telecom Infrastructure, Paving the Way for Pakistan’s Digital Future

The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), the largest body of more than 200 leading foreign investors in Pakistan, has released its biennial Perception and Investment Survey 2025, revealing a cautiously optimistic outlook from foreign investors on Pakistan’s business and investment climate.

The survey shows that 73 percent of OICCI members recommend Pakistan as a viable destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), a notable rise from 61 percent in 2023. This shift reflects improved macroeconomic stability, reduced inflation, declining from 37 percent in mid-2023 to 4 percent by July 2025, and a relatively stable rupee, alongside upgraded international credit ratings.

Other key findings from the survey highlight Pakistan’s improved regional standing on investment viability compared to 2023 versus several peers, including Bangladesh, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Parent company interest has increased, as 35 percent of respondents reported that their headquarters are now considering Pakistan a priority destination for new FDI, compared to 24 percent in 2023.

Commenting on the OICCI Perception Survey 2025, OICCI President Yousaf Hussain stated: “The notable upward shift in investor sentiment demonstrates that economic stability and policy coordination are beginning to deliver results. Initiatives like the SIFC have provided a structured mechanism for investment facilitation and inter-governmental alignment. Going forward, deeper private-sector inclusion and continued reforms in taxation and regulatory efficiency will be key to sustaining this momentum.”

Investor perception of business risk has shifted favourably, moving from a predominantly high-risk to a medium-risk outlook, reflecting improved macroeconomic management and relative stability. However, the findings also indicate that structural bottlenecks continue to constrain Pakistan’s investment potential. Among the most critical concerns, federal–provincial coordination received negative feedback from 57 percent of respondents.

According to the survey, 96 percent of respondents reported higher energy costs, 95 percent faced increased wage expenses, and 91 percent cited higher domestic raw material costs. Over 80 percent expressed concern over delayed tax refunds, which in most cases take more than two years to process. Furthermore, over half of respondents indicated that commercial disputes take over five years to resolve, highlighting the need for judicial reform and more efficient dispute resolution.

Members’ perceptions of Pakistan’s economic outlook have improved noticeably since 2023. When asked about their sector-specific expectations for the next two to three years, 58 percent of respondents now foresee global economic growth, a significant rise from 40 percent in the previous survey. This improvement mirrors gains in key macroeconomic indicators, including greater inflation stability, exchange rate management, and stronger capital market performance.

OICCI Members also recommended enhancing Pakistan’s digital and regulatory landscape, supported by stronger human capital and a comprehensive, sector-focused investment policy. They emphasized developing non-IT industrial capacity to diversify growth.

Strengthening Pakistan’s global image was also seen as vital to attracting long-term FDI.
On global perception, 82 percent of respondents noted that negative international coverage continues to influence investment decisions, highlighting the need for a proactive communications strategy to project Pakistan’s economic recovery and reform progress at global forums.

The survey’s recommendations call for broadening the tax base, ensuring policy consistency, strengthening coordination between federal and provincial governments, and enhancing intellectual property rights enforcement to sustain investor confidence and attract long-term FDI.
Foreign investors identified IT and digital services, renewable energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and export-oriented manufacturing as the most promising sectors for future FDI. However, operational constraints persist, including a rising tax burden, policy inconsistency, high energy costs, and issues with contract enforcement, all of which continue to impact competitiveness.

In conclusion, CEO and Secretary General OICCI M. Abdul Aleem added: “While investor confidence has improved, the survey also highlights critical areas needing immediate attention, particularly high business costs, complex taxation, and delays in contract enforcement. OICCI members recommend harmonizing tax policies, simplifying regulations, and enhancing institutional capacity to translate optimism into concrete FDI inflows.”

The OICCI Perception and Investment Survey 2025’s findings highlight that although ongoing reforms have helped stabilize the economy, Pakistan’s ability to translate this improved sentiment into sustained investment will depend on ensuring their consistent execution and long-term continuity. More than half of the OICCI members participated in the OICCI Perception and Investment Survey 2025.

OICCI urges urgent climate financing to secure Pakistan’s future at the launch of its 3rd PCC Report

FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan Limited (FCEPL) announced its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30th, 2025.

The packaged milk category continues to remain in decline post the imposition of sales tax last year. The company’s focused execution resulted in partially gaining back the volumes along with growing its market share. Whilst the revenue for the period is lower by 2.8% as compared to year to date period last year, the gross margins improved by 130bps due to cost rationalization and better product-mix.

Campaign launched aimed towards strengthening brand equity and activated it across TV, digital & in-store touchpoints. Continued focus and investment on Olper’s Cream and Flavored milk resulted in volume growth despite competition from established players.

The Frozen Dessert category successfully delivered a 15% value growth since last year. The segment continued to introduce innovative offerings at attractive price points while optimizing the product portfolio.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

The financial performance of the company for the period ending September 30, 2025, is summarized below:

Future Outlook

Whilst the implementation of the 18% sales tax on packaged milk continues to be a challenge for the industry, FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan has shown resilience, and persistently gained market shares. The company will keep bringing the best-in-class products to its consumers through relevant portfolios and cost rationalizations that will help enhance profitability and shareholder returns.

FCEPL urges the Government of Pakistan to implement equitable taxation by reducing the sales tax on packaged milk. This critical step will help ensure a sustainable future for the packaged dairy industry. Moreover, this relief will help Safeguard Public Health by promoting access to safe, nutritious milk, support farmer livelihoods through continued investment in development programs and boost competitiveness by strengthening Pakistan’s position in domestic and international markets.

At FCEPL, we remain committed to the highest standards of hygiene, food safety and sustainability, while providing safe, affordable, and nourishing dairy products to millions of Pakistanis, every day.

FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan Limited announces Q1, 2025 results.

DWP Group successfully celebrated the graduation ceremony of its Tameer-e-Mustaqbil internship program in Lahore, marking the completion of an enriching journey for seven talented internees from the company’s Tech Division.

The ceremony served as a testament to DWP Group’s commitment to nurturing young talent and equipping Pakistan’s youth with the skills, mentorship, and corporate exposure needed to thrive in today’s dynamic professional landscape.

Leadership from multiple departments attended the event, including Taha Muhammad Naseem, Director, DWP Group, Rohail Basir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies, Naeem Bashir, General Manager Sales, Sabah-ud-Din Rana, Shoaib Younus, Head of Marketing, and Shakeela Qureshi, Head of Human Resources.

Speaking on the occasion, Taha Muhammad Naseem, Director, DWP Group, said, “At DWP Group, we believe that the future of Pakistan lies in empowering its youth with the right skills and opportunities. The Tameer-e-Mustaqbil program is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry by offering real-world experience, mentorship, and a platform for innovation. Seeing these young individuals grow into confident professionals is a proud moment for all of us.”

Rohail Basir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies, added, “Our vision behind Tameer-e-Mustaqbil is to cultivate future-ready professionals who can lead with creativity and purpose. Each internee has shown remarkable potential and commitment throughout the program, and we are confident that they will carry forward DWP’s values of excellence and innovation in their future endeavors.”

Through Tameer-e-Mustaqbil, DWP Group continues to invest in the next generation of professionals by providing cross-functional exposure, hands-on training, and direct mentorship from industry leaders. The program’s structure, which includes weekly learning labs, real-time projects, and “Intern Diaries”, ensures a well-rounded learning experience designed to prepare participants for the challenges of the modern workplace.

The graduation of the 2025 cohort not only marks the successful completion of an internship but also symbolizes the beginning of promising careers, fueled by ambition, learning, and a shared vision for Pakistan’s bright future.

DWP Group launches ‘Tameer-e-Mustaqbil’ to empower the next generation of professionals

ABHI, the neo bank of the future, partnered with Al Fardan Exchange, the UAE’s most trusted financial services provider since 1971, to launch Salary Advance service for Wages Protection System (WPS) customers.

This strategic step marks a significant step forward in advancing financial inclusion across the UAE by providing underbanked and unbanked individuals with flexible access to their earned income. It enables customers to access up to 50% of their wages before payday, helping them send money home for urgent financial needs.

Accessible through the AlfaPay app by Al Fardan Exchange and the company’s nationwide network of over 90 branches, the Salary Advance service provides customers with a seamless and user-friendly experience, whether digital or in-person. By combining Al Fardan Exchange’s extensive network and deep market presence with ABHI’s cutting-edge technology, the initiative addresses a critical financial need for expat communities in the UAE, strengthening financial inclusion and stability.

Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, CEO at Al Fardan Exchange, said, “The launch of Salary Advance is a milestone in our mission to champion financial inclusion and deliver solutions that truly make a positive impact on people’s lives. By giving customers the ability to access their wages early, we are empowering them with financial flexibility and the means to support their families anytime. This is about turning innovation into real impact, and we are proud to partner with Abhi Fintech to bring this service to life seamlessly through our AlfaPay App and nationwide branch network.”

Omar Ansari, Co-Founder & CEO of Abhi Middle East Limited, stated: “This partnership with Al Fardan Exchange is not just a partnership but a transformation in how workers experience financial autonomy. By becoming the first exchange in the UAE to go live with ABHI’s Earned Wage Access, together we are redefining the way income and remittances work for millions of expatriates. We are not just providing faster access to wages; we’re empowering people to support their families, build resilience, and plan for the future with confidence. This
collaboration signals a new era of inclusive, technology-driven financial services that will uplift communities and set a benchmark for the region.”

Founded in 2021, ABHI is committed to advancing financial inclusion across the region and currently operates across the GCC. Since its launch, ABHI has served over one million users across the MENAP region. To date, the company has onboarded more than 5,000 companies and processed around five million transactions, with a total value exceeding $500 million+ across its markets, providing employees with instant liquidity exactly when they need it most.

The launch also comes at a time when the UAE’s macroeconomic outlook continues to provide fertile ground for innovation. With the International Monetary Fund projecting 4.0% real GDP growth and inflation expected to stay around 2.1% in 2025, the stability of the financial system supports the rollout of scalable, short-term lending products that bridge income gaps for everyday earners.

Together, Al Fardan Exchange and ABHI are paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible financial future for communities across the UAE.

ABHI Partners with Fast Cables to Provide Earned Wage Access, Empowering Employees with Financial Flexibility