State Bank

Access official State Bank Notifications through Vocal Pakistan, covering monetary policies, interest rate changes, and regulatory updates for Pakistan’s financial sector. Vocal Pakistan ensures you’re informed on SBP’s latest directives.

State Bank of Pakistan to Remain Closed on 28 May on Youm-e-Takbeer 2025–Official Notification
State Bank, Departments, Federal, Leaves & Timings, News, Notifications, Public Holidays

State Bank of Pakistan to Remain Closed on 28 May on Youm-e-Takbeer 2025–Official Notification

Notification / OM No. ECD/M&PRD/PR/01/2025-35 Dated 23-May-2025 Notification Issued By: External Communications Department, State Bank Of Pakistan State Bank Declares May 28 as Public Holiday for Youm-e-Takbeer – All Branches Closed Nationwide: In a recent development, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced a public holiday on 28th May 2025 (Wednesday) to commemorate Youm-e-Takbeer, as declared by the Government of Pakistan. This day marks a significant milestone in the country’s history and is observed annually in remembrance of Pakistan’s nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998. As per the latest government notification, all SBP offices and operations will remain closed on this date. The announcement has been made public through the External Communications Department of SBP, under circular number ECD/M&PRD/PR/01/2025-35, issued on May 23, 2025. This public holiday is part of a broader nationwide observance. All commercial banks and financial institutions regulated by SBP are also expected to follow the same closure. Please find notification: STATE BANK OF PAKISTANExternal Communications Department ECD/M&PRD/PR/01/2025-35                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             May 23, 2025 PUBLIC HOLIDAY The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed on May 28, 2025 (Wednesday) being public holiday on the occasion of “Youm-e-Takbeer”, as declared by the Government of Pakistan. Youm-e-Takbeer Holiday 2025 – SBP Closure to Honor National Defense Milestone: The announcement by the State Bank of Pakistan aligns with the government’s national agenda to honor and remember Youm-e-Takbeer, a landmark day in Pakistan’s defense history. With this holiday, not only will SBP offices remain closed, but it also serves as a time for all Pakistanis to reflect on the nation’s achievements in ensuring sovereignty and strategic strength. For those in banking, finance, and corporate sectors, this means that no SBP transactions, clearances, or operations will be available on May 28, 2025. Customers, financial institutions, and bank employees are advised to plan their financial activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. Keep visiting Vocal Pakistan for the latest government notifications, bank holiday updates, and official announcements from all departments including State Bank of Pakistan, Ministry of Interior, Education Departments, and more. Stay updated about Latest Government Notifications! Join our WhatsApp channel “Vocal Government Employees” for instant government notifications, policy updates, and important news tailored for public sector employees. Stay informed, stay ahead! Join now.

State Bank of Pakistan Clarifies Rumors About New Currency Notes–Official Statement Issued
State Bank, Departments, Federal, News, Notifications

State Bank of Pakistan Clarifies Rumors About New Currency Notes–Official Statement Issued

Notification / OM No. – Dated – Notification Issued By: State Bank Of Pakistan State Bank of Pakistan Addresses Misinformation About New Currency Notes: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially issued a clarification regarding recent rumors circulating on media and social platforms about the issuance of new currency notes to banks. The central bank has stated that reports suggesting the establishment of a “Fresh Cash Counter” in banks are misrepresented and incorrect. According to the official press release, the new currency notes of denominations 5000, 1000, and 500 are being provided exclusively for ATM replenishment and not for over-the-counter distribution to the general public. This step ensures that ATM users have access to fresh and high-quality banknotes while maintaining smooth cash circulation across the banking sector. SBP has urged citizens to rely only on official sources for banking-related updates and avoid spreading or believing misinformation. For further details and verification, the State Bank of Pakistan advises the public to visit its official website www.sbp.org.pk. Please find the official press release below: STATE BANK OF PAKISTAN PRESS RELEASE The News Circulating on Media & Social Platforms Regarding New Currency Notes issued to Banks is being Misrepresented. No “Fresh Cash Counter” from the State Bank of Pakistan is being set up in Banks. The Cash provided to Banks consists of new Currency Notes of 5000, 1000, and 500 denominations, only for ATMs State Bank of Pakistan For more information, visit our website :www.sbp.org.pk No “Fresh Cash Counter” in Banks – SBP Addresses Misrepresentation of New Currency Notes: Misinformation about currency policies, banking services, and financial regulations can cause unnecessary confusion among the public. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has once again reiterated the importance of fact-checking news before sharing it on media platforms. To stay updated on official banking policies, new currency issuances, financial regulations, and economic reforms, always rely on State Bank of Pakistan’s official website and trusted news sources. Avoid believing in unverified news circulated on social media. Stay updated about Latest Government Notifications! Join our WhatsApp channel “Vocal Government Employees” for instant government notifications, policy updates, and important news tailored for public sector employees. Stay informed, stay ahead! Join now.

Bank Holidays, Departments, Federal, Leaves & Timings, News, Notifications, State Bank

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Eid-ul-Fitr Holidays–Banks to Remain Closed Notification

Notification / OM No. BPRD Circular Letter No. 09 Dated 21-March-2025 Notification Issued By: State Bank of Pakistan State Bank of Pakistan Announces Eid Holidays – Banks to Remain Closed: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced a three-day public holiday for all banks, microfinance banks (MFBs), development banks (DBs), and development finance institutions (DFIs) on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. According to BPRD Circular Letter No. 09, issued on March 21, 2025, banks across Pakistan will remain closed from March 31 (Monday) to April 2 (Wednesday), 2025. This decision aligns with the government’s official Eid-ul-Fitr holiday schedule, allowing employees and customers to observe the religious occasion. During these days, no banking transactions will be processed, and all financial institutions will resume normal operations on Thursday, April 3, 2025. Customers are advised to complete their urgent banking transactions before March 30 to avoid any inconvenience. ATM services, online banking, and digital transactions are expected to remain functional during the holiday period. For further updates, stay connected with the official website of the State Bank of Pakistan or visit your respective bank’s online portal. State Bank of Pakistan BPRD Circular Letter No. 09                                                                                                                                                                                                                      March 21, 2025 The Presidents/Chief ExecutivesAll Banks/MFBS/DBs/DFIS Dear Sir/Madam PUBLIC HOLIDAYS The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed from 31st March to 2nd April, 2025 (Monday to Wednesday) being public holidays on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. Yours truly, Additional DirectorBanking Policy & Regulations Department Plan Ahead: Banks to Resume Operations After Eid on April 3: With the three-day Eid-ul-Fitr holiday announcement, customers are encouraged to plan their banking activities in advance. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has ensured that digital banking services, ATMs, and mobile banking platforms remain operational for seamless transactions during the holiday period. However, branches and physical banking services will be unavailable from March 31 to April 2, 2025. Those requiring cash withdrawals, fund transfers, or any in-person banking assistance should complete their tasks before the holiday break. Businesses and financial institutions are also advised to adjust their payment schedules accordingly to prevent any disruptions. Stay updated about Latest Government Notifications! Join our WhatsApp channel “Vocal Government Employees” for instant government notifications, policy updates, and important news tailored for public sector employees. Stay informed, stay ahead! Join now.

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Ramazan 2025 Banking Hours–Notification
State Bank, Departments, Federal, News, Notifications

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Ramazan 2025 Banking Hours–Notification

Notification / OM No. BPRD Circular Letter No. 06 Dated 01-March-2025 Notification Issued By: Banking Policy & Regulations Department, State Bank Of Pakistan SBP Announces New Banking Hours for Ramazan 2025 Across Pakistan: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced the revised banking hours for the holy month of Ramazan 2025. As per the new government notification, all banks, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and Microfinance Banks (MFBs) across Pakistan will follow a modified office and business schedule to accommodate the spiritual and practical needs of the public during this sacred month. Under the new schedule, public dealings in banks will take place from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Monday to Thursday) and 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM on Fridays, without any break. Office hours have also been adjusted accordingly. These changes ensure that customers can conveniently conduct their banking transactions while observing fasting and religious obligations. The revised timings will remain in effect throughout Ramazan 1446 A.H. and will automatically revert to pre-Ramazan hours after the holy month ends. STATE BANK OF PAKISTANBANKING POLICY & REGULATIONS DEPARTMENTI. I. CHUNDRIGAR ROADKARACHI BPRD Circular Letter No. 06 March 01, 2025 The Presidents/ChiefExecutives All Banks / DFIs / MFBS Dear Sir/Madam OFFICE AND BUSINESS HOURS DURING THE MONTH OF RAMADAN-UL-MUBARAK. During the ensuing month of Ramadan-ul-Mubarak 1446 A.H., the following office hours will be observed in the State Bank of Pakistan, which will also be followed by all banks / DFIs / MFBs: Days Office Hours Monday to Thursday 09:00 a.m. to 03:30 p.m.(prayer break 02:00 p.m. to 02:30 p.m.) Friday 08:30 a.m. to 01:00 p.m. (without break) 2.            Banks / MFBS are further advised to observe the following business (banking) hours for public dealing: Days Business (Banking) Hours for Public Dealing Monday to Thursday 09:00 a.m. to 02:00 p.m. (without break) Friday 08:30 a.m. to 01:00 p.m. (without break) 3.            After the month of Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, the above timings will automatically revert to pre Ramadan timings. Yours truly, Additional Director Convenient Banking During Ramazan – A Public-Friendly Initiative by SBP: The State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to adjust banking and office hours during Ramazan 2025 ensures greater convenience for customers and employees alike. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to facilitating financial services while respecting the spiritual commitments of the people of Pakistan. Customers are advised to plan their banking transactions accordingly to avoid any last-minute inconvenience. As Friday hours are significantly reduced, it is recommended to visit banks earlier in the week for smooth and hassle-free transactions. For more information, clarification or any other question feel free to join our WhatsApp Group. We are a supportive community where members are committed to assisting one another.

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Bank Holiday on March 3, 2025 for Zakat Deduction–Official Notification
Bank Holidays, Departments, Federal, Leaves & Timings, News, Notifications, State Bank

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Bank Holiday on March 3, 2025 for Zakat Deduction–Official Notification

Notification / OM No. BPRD Circular Letter No. 05 Dated 28-February-2025 Notification Issued By: State Bank of Pakistan SBP Declares Bank Holiday on March 3, 2025 – Official Notification Issued: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced a bank holiday on Monday, March 3, 2025, for the purpose of Zakat deduction. As per the official notification issued by SBP through BPRD Circular Letter No. 05, all banks, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and Microfinance Banks (MFBs) across Pakistan will remain closed for public dealing on the specified date. This bank closure is in accordance with the instructions from the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation & Social Safety, as per BPRD Circular Letter No. 04 dated February 27, 2025. While public banking services will be unavailable, all bank employees are required to attend office as usual, treating the day as a normal working day (except for public transactions). Customers are advised to plan their banking activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. ATM services, online banking, and digital transactions will remain operational during the closure. State Bank of Pakistan BPRD Circular Letter No. 05        February 28, 2025 The Presidents/Chief ExecutivesAll Banks/DFIs/MFBS Dear Sir/Madam BANK HOLIDAY The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed for public dealing on Monday, March 3, 2025, which shall be observed as “Bank Holiday” for the purpose of deduction of Zakat in accordance with instructions contained in Notification issued by the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation & Social Safety, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad circulated vide BPRD Circular Letter No. 04 dated February 27, 2025. All banks / DFIs / MFBS shall, therefore, remain closed for public dealing on the afore- mentioned date. However, all employees of the banks/DFIs/MFBs will attend the office on Bank Holiday treating it as a normal working day (except for public dealing). Yours truly, Additional Director Plan Ahead: Bank Holiday for Zakat Deduction: The annual Zakat deduction process is a significant financial event that impacts bank accounts and savings balances. Customers should ensure they check their account balances before March 3, 2025, to understand any deductions that may apply. To stay informed about banking holidays, financial regulations, and government policies, visit Vocal Pakistan—your trusted source for the latest updates on government notifications, banking news, and financial regulations. For more information, clarification or any other question feel free to join our WhatsApp Group. We are a supportive community where members are committed to assisting one another.

Banks to Remain Closed on February 5th As State Bank of Pakistan Announces Public Holiday on Kashmir Day–Official Notification
Public Holidays, Departments, Federal, Leaves & Timings, News, Notifications, State Bank

Banks to Remain Closed on February 5th As State Bank of Pakistan Announces Public Holiday on Kashmir Day–Official Notification

Notification / OM No. ECD/M&PRD/PR/01/2025-07 Dated 04-February-2025 Notification Issued By: External Communications Department, State Bank Of Pakistan State Bank Declares February 5th as Public Holiday for Kashmir Day: To honor the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people and reaffirm Pakistan’s solidarity with them, the Government of Pakistan has officially declared February 5, 2025, as a public holiday. In compliance with this decision, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that all banks across the country will remain closed on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Kashmir Day is observed annually in Pakistan as a national public holiday, demonstrating the nation’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri struggle. On this day, rallies, seminars, and public gatherings take place across the country to highlight the cause of Kashmir. Financial institutions, government offices, and educational institutions remain closed in observance of this significant day. For banking customers, it is advised to plan financial transactions in advance, as all banking services, including online transactions and branch operations, will be unavailable on the public holiday. Notification Describes; STATE BANKExternal Communications Department ECD/M&PRD/PR/01/2025-07 February 04, 2025 Public Holiday The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed on Wednesday, February 05, 2025 being public holiday on Kashmir Day, as declared by the Government of Pakistan. Banking Operations to Resume After Kashmir Day – Plan Your Transactions Accordingly: As Pakistan prepares to observe Kashmir Day 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan’s notification serves as a reminder for businesses and individuals to make necessary banking arrangements in advance. With all banks and financial institutions closed on February 5th, online banking services may experience limited support, so customers should ensure any urgent transactions are completed beforehand. Following the public holiday, normal banking operations will resume on Thursday, February 6, 2025. Meanwhile, government offices, schools, and businesses across the country will also remain closed to mark this national day of solidarity. The observance of Kashmir Day is a significant part of Pakistan’s commitment to raising awareness about the ongoing situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK). Citizens are encouraged to participate in peaceful rallies and discussions to show their support. For more information, clarification or any other question feel free to join our WhatsApp Group. We are a supportive community where members are committed to assisting one another.

Extended Deadline EncashmentConversion of National Prize Bonds Now Available Until December 31, 2024-State Bank of Pakistan Notification
State Bank, Departments, Federal, News, Notifications

Extended Deadline: Encashment/Conversion of National Prize Bonds Now Available Until December 31, 2024-State Bank of Pakistan Notification

STATE BANK OF PAKISTANSBP Bankin1g Services Corporation (Bank) Currency Management Department No. CMD/GSSAD/PBU/PB-1/134789/2024                                                                  Dated: October 02, 2024 All Chief Managers SBP Banking Services Corporation (Bank) Extension in Last Date for Encashment/Conversion/Redemption of Rs. 40.000/, Rs. 25.000/, Rs. 15.000/- & Rs. 7.500/- Denomination National Prize Bonds Withdrawn from Circulation This is with reference to CMD Circular No. 48397 dated September 06, 2023  wherein the last date of encashment/conversion/redemption of captioned denominations of National Prize Bonds (NPBs) was communicated as June 30, 2024. 2.         In this connection, it is informed that the Finance Division, Government of Pakistan vide Notification Nos. F.16(3)GS-l/2014-584, 585, 586, & 587 dated September 30, 2024 (copies enclosed) has extended the last date for encashment / replacement / conversion of Rs. 40,000/-, Rs. 25,000/-, Rs. 15,000/- & Rs. 7,500/-denomination National Prize Bonds respectively upto December 31, 2024, 3.         Accordingly, all offices are advised to accept requests for encashment /conversion /redemption of cited denominations from general public till December 31, 2024. All other instructions regarding handling/processing of withdrawn NPBs shall remain unchanged. 4.         Chief Managers are requested to kindly disseminate these instructions to concerned officials for information and meticulous compliance. Sincerely, Joint Director

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Name Change Advans Pakistan Microfinance Bank Rebranded as Halan Microfinance Bank-Notification
State Bank, Departments, News, Notifications

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Name Change: Advans Pakistan Microfinance Bank Rebranded as Halan Microfinance Bank-Notification

EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT ECD/M&PRD/PR/01/2024-63                                                             September 16, 2024 Change of Name- “ADVANS Pakistan Microfinance Bank Limited.” to “Halan Microfinance Bank Limited.” It is to inform that the name of the “ADVANS Pakistan Microfinance Bank Limited” has been changed to “Halan Microfinance Bank Limited” with effect from September 16, 2024. Halan Microfinance Bank Limited (Formerly, ADVANS Pakistan Microfinance Bank Limited.), is already operating with 19 branches since 2012.

State Bank of Pakistan Unveils Art Competition Results for New Banknote Series Cultural Icons to Shine on Pakistan’s Currency
State Bank, Departments, News

State Bank of Pakistan Unveils Art Competition Results for New Banknote Series: Cultural Icons to Shine on Pakistan’s Currency

State Bank of Pakistan 05th September , 2024 Art Competition for New Series of Banknotes – Results Announced  State Bank of Pakistan is pleased to announce the results of an art competition for the design of the new series of notes. The local artists and designers participating in the competition are to be commended for expressing their creativity on this important occasion. Description is in capital letters selected for prize money. The shortlisted designs are purely symbolic and suggestive in nature and these designs are being sent to international designers who have been shortlisted to work with the State Bank of Pakistan and finalize the designs for the new note series. Full-stop international designers will be guided by the above designs given by local artists, so we will be free to use our own skills and imagination to create the final design. Full-stop State Bank will ensure that the new notes The series reflects the nation’s rich cultural vocabulary and progressive outlook. It is hoped that the final design will fully reflect this collaboration. Winners will be awarded prize money as announced by participating in this important national project. Details of the prize distribution ceremony will be communicated soon. Congratulations again and thank you to everyone who participated in this contest. Ealier: Earlier State Bank Announced an Art Competition for New Banknote Series Last date of entries was April 18, 2024 State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has initiated the process for issuance of a new banknote series. To have innovative and thematic design ideas for the new series banknotes, an Art Competition is being organized. The local artists, designers and art students/designers are eligible to participate in the Art Competition. The participants may develop the designs on the themes, including but not limited to: Terms and Conditions: The Art Competition will be conducted under the following terms and conditions:- The Participants can share design of all the seven (07) existing denominations (Rs. 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000) or fewer denominations based on their choice. Design for each banknote shall be presented in hard copy on white paper along with a write-up of not more than hundred words in English or Urdu, explaining the design and its theme. The colours of each banknote denomination should be unique and easily distinguishable. A Jury comprising reputed artists will evaluate the designs and recommend the top six (06) designs for each denomination to the SBP for picking the top 3 designs of each denomination. The first, second and third designs of each denomination will be given the prize of RS.1,000,000/- Rs.500,000/- Rs.300,000/- respectively. The participants shall ensure that their submitted designs are free from any copyright claims and/or any liabilities. The members of the Jury, SBP and its subsidiaries employees and their family members shall not be eligible to participate in the Art Competition. The designs submitted in the Art Competition will be sole property of the SBP and the SBP will be at liberty to share the design or any modification thereof with the banknote designers for the purpose of banknotes designing, without any extra compensation. For any questions and clarifications about the Art Competition, please contact us at banknotes@sbp.org.pk.

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Independence Day Holiday August 14th Declared Public Holiday-Notification
Bank Holidays, Departments, Leaves & Timings, News, Notifications, State Bank

State Bank of Pakistan Announces Independence Day Holiday: August 14th Declared Public Holiday-Notification

State Bank Of Pakistan External Communications Department ECD/M&PRD/PRA31/2024-53                                                                                                 August 08, 2024 Public Holiday The State Bank of Pakistan will remain dosed on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 being public holiday on the occasion of Independence Day’ as declared by the Government of Pakistan.

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