The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) announced that Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu has formally assumed charge as its Chairman, signalling a reform agenda focused on strengthening capital markets, improving the ease of doing business and deepening financial inclusion. Before taking up the role, Dr. Sidhu resigned as Chairman of the Competition Commission of Pakistan, with the federal cabinet accepting his resignation on January 27. His stated priorities include simplifying regulations and streamlining procedures to reduce the cost of doing business, broadening the investor base and encouraging new listings, and supporting an enabling legal and regulatory framework for products such as derivatives, real estate investment trusts (REITs), green bonds and fractional investment options. The agenda also highlights revival of the Non-Banking Financial Companies sector, including leasing, digital lending, mortgage and housing finance and peer-to-peer platforms, and insurance initiatives covering digital micro-insurance, Takaful and parametric climate insurance alongside greater transparency in policy offerings and claims management. Digital transformation under the LEAP project features as a core delivery tool, with plans to fully digitise the licensing regime and introduce a smart compliance system intended to simplify requirements, reduce compliance costs and shorten turnaround times for businesses.
Securites & Exchange Commission of Pakistan 2026-01-28
Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan confirms Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu has assumed charge as chairman and sets out reform priorities
Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu has assumed the role of Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, with a reform agenda focused on strengthening capital markets, enhancing business ease, and deepening financial inclusion. Key priorities include simplifying regulations, broadening the investor base, supporting new financial products, and advancing digital transformation through the LEAP project.