Finance minister says digital platform marks new era for government securities investment
ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday said the government aims to gradually reduce its reliance on commercial banks for financing by expanding access to government securities through digital investment platforms.
Speaking at the launch of the State Bank of Pakistan’s InvestPak Portal, Aurangzeb described the initiative as the beginning of a new era for investment in Pakistan. The digital platform allows both individual and corporate investors to invest in government securities through a streamlined and fully digital process.
He said broadening the government’s investor base remains a key policy priority alongside accelerating the country’s digital transformation. According to the minister, reducing dependence on commercial banks will create greater opportunities for private-sector lending and strengthen the overall financial system.
Shift toward diversified financing
Aurangzeb said the government recently discussed private-sector credit expansion with bank chief executives, acknowledging that heavy government borrowing from commercial banks has often limited financing available for businesses.
He stressed that diversifying funding sources would help address the crowding-out effect while encouraging greater participation from non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs). He urged the sector to play a more active role, saying the move aligns with their business and asset-liability management models.
The minister added that reducing reliance on banks for government borrowing would ultimately improve financial market efficiency and support long-term economic growth.
Digital access to expand investment
Aurangzeb highlighted technology as a powerful tool for financial inclusion, saying digital platforms make investing faster, more affordable and accessible to a broader segment of the population.
He also noted that Pakistan has experienced a significant rise in equity market participation over the past 12 to 18 months. However, he said the country has lagged in fixed-income investments.
The launch of the InvestPak Portal, he added, is expected to strengthen participation in government securities, diversify the investor base and contribute to the continued development of Pakistan’s capital markets.
