Pakistan’s stock market witnessed an extraordinary increase in investor participation during the fiscal year 2025-26, with a record 48% increase in stock market accounts, marking the highest annual growth in the country’s capital market history.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) reported today a significant increase in the number of investors, which was 392,775 on July 1, 2025, rising to 583,052 by June 30, 2026. Over 190,000 new accounts were opened, indicating the growing attraction of the capital market.
SECP’s key reforms, in collaboration with the National Clearing Company of Pakistan (NCCPL), Central Depository Company (CDC), and Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), played an important role in this expansion. These included simplifying the account opening process, increasing the facility account limit from 1 million to 3 million rupees, and enabling digital verification through IBAN.
Furthermore, the introduction of small trading accounts for individuals under the age of 18 through guardianship made investing more accessible to the youth population, demonstrating SECP’s commitment to financial inclusion.
Karachi led with 25% of new investor accounts, followed by Lahore with 16%. Islamabad and Rawalpindi collectively contributed 13%, while Faisalabad and Multan added 4% and 3%, respectively.
A notable trend was the influx of young investors, with 45% of newly registered individuals aged between 18 to 30, and 41% aged between 31 to 45. This shift indicates growing interest among the youth and working-age groups in financial markets.
SECP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu highlighted the increase in the number of investors and the priority of connecting youth with the capital market. He announced upcoming digital facilities, including a mobile app to further facilitate investor participation.
Dr. Sidhu emphasized the potential of Pakistan’s capital market to boost economic growth by converting public savings into productive investments. SECP is committed to simplifying the investment process, building trust, and involving more citizens in the country’s economic development.