Karachi: The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA) has retained the asset manager rating for ABL Asset Management Company Limited, citing its experienced management, robust risk management framework, and strong market presence.

According to PACRA, the rating reflects ABL Funds' effective board oversight and continued support from its parent company, Allied Bank Limited. As of June 2026, the overall industry assets under management (AUM) rose by approximately 16% year-over-year, totaling around PKR 4.3 trillion. Shariah-compliant funds experienced a growth rate of 26.9%, surpassing the 7.7% growth seen in conventional funds. ABL Funds, managing a diversified portfolio of 24 open-end funds and various pension schemes, reported total AUM of PKR 307.1 billion, up from PKR 260 billion in June 2025, despite a reduction from PKR 348.7 billion in December 2025 due to maturity-related redemptions.

The financial performance of ABL Funds showed a decline, with customer revenue easing to PKR 1,140.6 million for the first half of the calendar year 2026, down from PKR 1,337.8 million in the same period the previous year. Profit before tax fell to PKR 492.6 million from PKR 857.9 million, and profit after tax decreased to PKR 306.2 million from PKR 545.9 million. Earnings per share dropped to PKR 6.12 from PKR 10.92. Despite these challenges, the equity base of ABL Funds grew to PKR 6.35 billion by June 2026, exceeding the minimum regulatory requirement.

The rating's stability is contingent upon ABL Funds' ability to execute business development plans, leverage digital initiatives, sustain fund performance, and achieve profitability growth. The retention of key management personnel and adherence to strong corporate governance will remain critical for future evaluations.