Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu assumes charge as SECP chairman

Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu has formally taken over as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the regulator said on Wednesday.

According to a statement, Dr Sidhu said his priority would be to build a fair, transparent, and inclusive financial market capable of mobilising savings into productive investment, supporting innovation, and promoting sustainable economic growth.

He said the SECP would work to reduce the cost of doing business by simplifying regulations, streamlining procedures, and accelerating digital transformation across the corporate and financial regulatory framework. As part of this effort, the commission will advance its LEAP project, including full digitisation of the licensing regime and the introduction of a smart compliance system aimed at lowering compliance costs and shortening processing timelines.

Highlighting the importance of capital markets in driving economic growth, Dr Sidhu said efforts would be made to broaden the investor base, encourage new listings, and expand the range of financial instruments. These include derivatives, real estate investment trusts (REITs), green bonds, and fractional investment products, supported by an enabling legal and regulatory framework to improve market depth, liquidity, and investor confidence.

Revival and expansion of the Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) sector will be another key focus area. Dr Sidhu said leasing companies, digital lenders, mortgage and housing finance firms, and peer-to-peer platforms have an important role in improving credit access for small and medium enterprises, first-time borrowers, and underserved segments. The SECP, he added, will work towards a more supportive regulatory environment for the sector.

The insurance sector will also receive priority attention. He said the regulator aims to increase insurance penetration through digital micro-insurance, Takaful, parametric climate insurance, and enhanced transparency in policy offerings and claims management, with a focus on consumer protection and coverage for the informal sector.

Prior to his appointment at the SECP, Dr Sidhu served as Chairman of the Competition Commission of Pakistan. He tendered his resignation from the post, which was accepted by the federal cabinet on January 27.

The commission said the planned measures are aimed at improving regulatory efficiency and strengthening Pakistan’s investment climate.