Karachi: Standard Chartered Bank recently hosted its third “Navigating Market Trends and Investment Opportunities” event in Karachi, bringing together affluent clients, leading economists, and financial experts to discuss both global and local economic trends and investment strategies. The event aimed to provide valuable insights into the current economic landscape and future financial market opportunities.
According to Standard Chartered Bank, Saadya Riaz, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking at Standard Chartered Pakistan, delivered the keynote address. Riaz emphasized the bank’s commitment to equipping its clients with actionable insights that enable them to navigate today’s markets effectively, particularly in light of recent macroeconomic developments. The event highlighted important topics such as global monetary policies and local economic conditions.
The panel discussion, moderated by Murtaza Hasan, CFA, Head of Investment Advisory at Standard Chartered Pakistan, featured Manpreet Gill, Chief Investment Officer, AMEE; Farooq Pasha, Country Economist; Kailash Kumar, Executive Director Wealth Solutions, Deposits and Secured; Asif Ali Qureshi, CEO, UBL Fund Managers; and Muhammad Asim, CFA, Chief Investment Officer, MCB Funds. The panelists provided a comprehensive view of the macroeconomic environment, discussed wealth planning strategies, and underscored the importance of incorporating protection solutions into client portfolios.
Manpreet Gill, participating virtually, discussed the potential impacts and growth opportunities arising from the global monetary policy easing cycle. Farooq Pasha offered an optimistic view on Pakistan’s economic trajectory post-elections, citing the successful completion of the USD 3 billion IMF SBA facility as a pivotal factor. Pasha forecasted economic growth to rise to 3.0% in FY25 from 2.4% in FY24, with inflation expected to ease to 12.5% from 23.4%. He also noted potential risks, including shifts in policy, political instability, or delays in foreign currency inflows that could affect the economic outlook.
Standard Chartered expressed enthusiasm about continuing to organize such informative events for its clients, aiming to foster informed decision-making among its clientele.