Pakistan to complete the privatization process of First Women Bank soon
Pakistan is on the verge of
finalizing the privatization of the First Women Bank Limited (FWBL), a landmark
development in the country’s ongoing economic reform and privatization drive.
Under a government-to-government
(G2G) arrangement, the government will divest its 82.64% majority stake in FWBL
to the UAE-based International Holding Company (IHC). The transaction, expected
to close by October 22, 2025, represents the first full-scale privatization of
a financial institution by the current administration.
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expresses interest in privatization of First Women Bank
According to senior officials, the deal is designed not only to attract foreign investment but also to revitalize FWBL through capital infusion, improve its operational efficiency, and restore investor confidence in Pakistan’s broader privatization program.
“This is not merely an asset sale—it
is a revival plan for a key institution that plays a unique role in women’s
economic empowerment,” said a senior government official, adding that the
agreement will also contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s foreign exchange
reserves.
Economists and market observers
describe the FWBL transaction as a critical benchmark for the country’s
commitment to structural reforms and economic liberalization.
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Bank concerned over obstacles in privatization of Pakistan’s State Owned
Entities (SOEs)
“This sends a powerful signal to global investors that Pakistan is moving from rhetoric to tangible action in restructuring its economy,” remarked a leading economist.
Established in 1989, the First Women
Bank has served as a specialized financial institution promoting women’s
entrepreneurship and financial inclusion. Its successful privatization is
expected to pave the way for greater participation of foreign investors in
Pakistan’s financial sector and set a precedent for upcoming divestments under
the government’s reform agenda.
Source: The
News