Islamabad — Standard Chartered Pakistan and British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, have made their first disbursement of $3.5 million to Kashf Foundation under an unfunded risk‑participation agreement.
Standard Chartered Pakistan expands risk coverage
The programme allows BII to provide partial coverage of Standard Chartered Pakistan’s risk on local currency loans to the microfinance sector. Officials said this arrangement enables the bank to expand its capacity to finance sectors considered vital for sustainable development.
Focus on financial inclusion
According to details shared, the partnership is designed to support financial inclusion by extending access to financing across traditionally underbanked sectors. The disbursement to Kashf Foundation is part of efforts to strengthen microfinance institutions and broaden opportunities for small businesses and individuals.
Statements from stakeholders
Rehan Shaikh, CEO of Standard Chartered Pakistan, said the collaboration with BII aims to improve access to finance for segments that contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy. Stepen Priestley, Managing Director at BII, noted that the programme will help microfinance institutions such as Kashf Foundation grow their portfolios and reach more underserved clients. Roshaneh Zafar, Founder and Managing Director of Kashf Foundation, highlighted the importance of investing in women’s entrepreneurship as part of broader economic development.
Broader sustainable finance commitment
The unfunded risk‑participation programme is part of Standard Chartered Pakistan’s wider commitment to sustainable finance and partnerships that mobilise capital for social and economic impact.
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