The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP), in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), organised a technical training session under the Capital Markets Learning Program (CMLP) at the CCP Headquarters.
The session was aimed at deepening officers’ understanding of Pakistan’s capital markets and their role in the economy.
SECP Joint Director Mr Murtaza Naqvi delivered a practical presentation on financial decision-making, the functioning of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), key market participants, regulated investment channels and responsible investing.
A live demonstration was also conducted to show how to open an account digitally and access the market through licensed brokers using the StocksPK application.
Speaking on the occasion, SECP Commissioner Mr Zeeshan Khattak highlighted the vital role of stock markets in the economy. He stressed that transparency, predictability and standardisation were essential for public understanding and confidence.
Citing examples from major global economies, he noted that large listed corporations played a significant role in driving growth and shaping future prospects. He said digitalisation had made market information and trading platforms more accessible, thereby widening opportunities for participation.
However, he cautioned that wider access must be accompanied by financial awareness and a clear understanding of risk so that investment decisions were informed and responsible.
In his concluding remarks, CCP Chairman Mr Farid Ahmad Tarar said Pakistan had yet to fully realise the potential of its capital market. He called for stronger financial literacy, a culture of savings and investment, and improvement in the savings-to-GDP ratio, which remained low compared with regional economies.
He said informed participation began with understanding investment opportunities and the risks associated with them. He added that the prospect of higher returns from higher-risk investments must be weighed carefully against potential losses.
The CCP chairman also noted that despite economic volatility and persistent challenges, Pakistan’s capital market had continued to function and remained an important barometer of economic performance.
He appreciated SECP’s initiative, saying that such practical training would deepen CCP officers’ understanding of market operations and regulated investment channels, and help them make better-informed financial decisions.
CCP Member Ms Bushra Naz Malik, along with senior management and officers of the Commission, attended the session.
