Shams ul Nisa

The Allied Bank Limited (ABL) is bolstering Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape through a strong SME lending program, demonstrating its commitment to economic resilience amid global market challenges, reports WealthPK.

ABL views SMEs as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and supports them with accessible, customized financial solutions that foster business growth, job creation, and local development. Therefore, amid economic headwinds, ABL’s SME lending continues to thrive, offering diverse financing options such as working capital, asset-backed credit, and trade finance to bridge funding gaps for small businesses.

ABL is making it easier for entrepreneurs across Pakistan to access loans, manage finances, and conduct transactions seamlessly with 18 digital branches and mobile banking units.  This digital expansion is backed by continuous investments in cybersecurity, service excellence, and innovative financial products, ensuring that small businesses receive secure, customized, and efficient banking solutions.

Furthermore, ABL combines digital innovation with an extensive network of 1,512 branches and 1,650 ATMs, including mobile units, to ensure financial inclusion in even the most remote areas. The company’s net advances reached Rs812 billion with a solid risk profile, while fee income grew by 5% year-on-year, led by increased card and branch banking activity. Similarly, non-markup income rose 13% to Rs7.1 billion, driven by gains in capital markets and foreign exchange.

With a profit after tax of Rs8.2 billion, the Board declared a Rs4.00 per share interim dividend, signaling confidence in sustained performance. Despite a 16% decline in industry-wide gross advances, ABL’s focus on quality SME lending preserved asset strength and minimized risk. ABL is also promoting economic diversification and helping reduce the country’s exposure to external economic challenges by directing credit to key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Moreover, ABL reported strong growth in digital payments during the year, reflecting its focus on financial inclusion and a cashless economy. ABL’s steadfast commitment to SME lending is driving entrepreneurial growth and economic resilience across Pakistan.

The company is reinforcing its market position while playing a vital role in national development through targeted support for small businesses, digital transformation, and robust governance. Amid global challenges, the bank’s focus on SMEs presents a promising route to inclusive economic growth, increased employment, and a more robust national economy.

Credit: INP-WealthPk