SECP introduces unified framework for 'faster and easier' entry into Pakistan's capital market

ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has introduced a unified digital investor onboarding framework to make entry into Pakistan’s capital market “faster and easier by reducing repetitive verification, simplifying documentation and setting clear timelines for opening investor accounts”.

The framework aims particularly to facilitate first-time and digital investors, with ‘Sehl/Sahulat’ accounts to be processed within one working day and normal accounts within two working days, according to an SECP statement issued on Friday.

“Applicants will receive tracking IDs, while any deficiencies will be communicated within the prescribed timeframe and reasons for rejection provided in writing,” it stated.

The statement said the initiative was part of the SECP’s broader drive to expand retail participation, particularly among young Pakistanis, and increase the country’s capital-market investor base to 2.5 million.

“Our focus is to remove entry barriers and use technology to make the investor journey simpler, faster and more accessible,” SECP Chairman Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu was quoted as saying.

“The objective is to unlock the significant untapped potential of Pakistan’s capital market by broadening participation, particularly among the youth, and building a deeper and more inclusive market,“ he elaborated.

The framework standardises onboarding requirements across “securities brokers, asset management companies, insurers and other regulated intermediaries, creating a more consistent investor experience across the regulated financial sector,” the statement said.

According to the SECP, the key feature of the framework is the elimination of repetitive customer verification. Where prescribed verification has already been completed by an eligible regulated financial institution or notified third party, intermediaries can rely on that verification instead of requiring investors to repeat the process.

“The framework also enables API-based straight-through processing and digital onboarding, including instant UIN issuance and opening of CDC sub-accounts, reducing paperwork and manual intervention,” the SECP said.

A few months ago, the government of Pakistan also established the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF), aimed at promoting financial literacy, expanding financial inclusion and increasing retail investor participation in the capital markets across the country.