Banks are showing willingness to participate in the recently launched Zarkhez-e (Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza) initiative, the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA) said on Thursday, noting that the scheme has been structured as a commercially viable incentive model for agricultural loan. The statement sought to clarify that lender engagement was based on business logic rather than […]
digital finance
Pakistan drafts strict rules to curb illegal virtual asset use
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has prepared an initial draft of Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) regulations aimed at preventing illegal use of virtual assets, including money laundering, terrorism financing, and corruption. The move is part of the country’s compliance with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) requirements. Read More: Govt moves to extend virtual assets ordinance amid push […]
SBP pushes innovation, trust in Pakistan’s digital finance
KARACHI: State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmed on Wednesday highlighted the importance of trust and cybersecurity in digital finance, noting that the central bank is advancing plans to establish an innovation hub. The initiative comes as SBP launches the first cohort of its Regulatory Sandbox to test new solutions in areas such as […]
PM Shehbaz pushes for rapid shift to cashless economy
ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transforming Pakistan into a cashless economy, calling it a key step toward sustainable development and improved governance. Chairing a meeting on the progress of the digital financial transformation, the prime minister directed authorities to expand awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas, to […]
Global crypto leaders spotlight Pakistan’s Bilal Bin Saqib
Pakistan’s Minister for Crypto and Blockchain, Bilal Bin Saqib, has been named among the world’s most influential crypto leaders. The Wall Street Journal included him in its latest investigative report, highlighting his role in shaping the global crypto landscape. According to media sources, Bilal Bin Saqib is recognized as a bridge between the East and […]
Pakistan powers bitcoin push using 2,000MW surplus energy
Pakistan has taken a major leap in the world of digital finance by launching its first government-backed strategic Bitcoin reserve. The announcement was made by Bilal Bin Saqib, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Crypto and Blockchain, during the prestigious Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las Vegas. The event drew global leaders, including US Vice […]