The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has called for greater digitalisation across capital markets, real estate investment trusts and insurance.
SECP Chairman Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu said digital platforms could improve the distribution, accessibility and adoption of regulated financial products. Wider access could also bring more retail investors into formal financial markets.
He made the remarks during a meeting with senior representatives of VEON and JazzWorld in Islamabad.
The delegation included VEON Group CEO Kaan Terzioglu, JazzWorld CEO Aamir Ibrahim and Syed Zaheer Mehdi. SECP Commissioner Ali Farid Khawaja also attended the meeting.
Participants discussed how digital platforms could connect more Pakistanis with investment, savings, insurance and other financial services. They also explored technology-led solutions for capital markets and REITs.
The meeting highlighted the potential for collaboration between regulators, telecommunications companies and digital service providers. Such cooperation could extend regulated products to people who have limited access to traditional financial institutions.
VEON plans another $1 billion investment
VEON and JazzWorld reaffirmed their long-term commitment to Pakistan during the meeting. The companies said they have invested approximately $11 billion in the country over the past three decades.
They plan to invest another $1 billion during the next three years. The funding will support connectivity, digital infrastructure, network modernisation and the expansion of digital platforms.
“Pakistan’s digital transformation requires significant investment in infrastructure, technology, and new financial models. As a long-term investor in Pakistan, VEON sees an opportunity to work with institutions such as SECP to develop frameworks that unlock capital, encourage innovation, and support the country’s digital economy,” Terzioglu said.
JazzWorld has expanded beyond traditional telecommunications into financial services, insurance, banking, entertainment, healthcare, cloud services and artificial intelligence.
The company says its digital ecosystem serves more than 100 million users. Its large customer base and distribution network could help regulated financial products reach individuals and businesses nationwide.
JazzCash had reached 60 million users by the first quarter of 2026, according to JazzWorld. The platform also onboarded one million merchants using Raast QR payments.
JazzWorld’s FikrFree platform had 17.8 million active insurance policies. These figures reflect the growing public adoption of app-based financial services in Pakistan.
Financial literacy remains essential
Sidhu also stressed the importance of financial literacy and investor education. He said digital access alone could not ensure responsible participation in financial markets.
Both sides agreed that wider digital distribution should accompany stronger public awareness. Consumers need clear information about financial planning, investment risks and the features of regulated products.
The discussions also focused on building investor confidence and encouraging responsible investment. Better digital outreach could help SECP explain regulatory protections and warn users about unlicensed financial schemes.
The meeting aligns with Pakistan’s wider push to expand financial inclusion and formalise economic activity. Digital platforms can reduce geographical and administrative barriers for underserved communities.
SECP, VEON and JazzWorld agreed to continue working with relevant stakeholders. Their proposed cooperation will focus on investment access, financial inclusion and technology-led innovation.
