SECP Hosts First-Ever Startup Conference

KARACHI: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) launched Pakistan’s first startup conference on Monday, aiming to boost innovation as well as economic growth.

According to a press statement from SECP, the first day of the event was a resounding success, with lawmakers, startup founders, international speakers, and stakeholders all coming together to discuss how to build a strong and stable startup ecosystem in Pakistan.

Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb made a video speech at the summit, highlighting the government’s dedication to encouraging innovation as a key factor in driving economic growth.

He praised SECP for its proactive regulatory initiatives, such as the Regulatory Sandbox and simplified incorporation procedures, which help more people have access to financial services and encourage the creation of startups in industries like digital finance, fintech, and others.

The welcome message was presented by SECP Commissioner Mujtaba Ahmad Lodhi, who stressed the significance of collaboration in creating an inclusive ecosystem for businesses.

Additionally, Mr. Lodhi emphasized SECP’s dedication to facilitating strategic dialogues that will strengthen the groundwork for innovation.

In his keynote speech, SECP Chairman Akif Saeed discussed the exceptional juncture in Pakistan’s startup scene, highlighting the obstacles and possibilities that exist. According to him, SECP’s mission is to create an environment that is both stable and dynamic for growth, rather than just adapt to change. They want to do this by constructing systems that empower innovators.

He brought attention to important SECP projects like LEAP and the regulatory sandbox, which are working towards the goal of making Pakistan a regional innovation hub through maximizing opportunities in embedded and fintech finance.

The first day of the summit was devoted to six important panel talks, all of which dealt with pressing issues in the startup scene in Pakistan.