Regulatory body instructs licensed companies to publish financial information on PSX website

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has recently issued directive number 2 of 2025, instructing all licensed companies to upload their most recent annual audited financial statements on the Financial Portal for Unlisted Companies (FPUC) developed by the Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX). This initiative aims to provide the general public and investors with the opportunity to thoroughly assess the performance of these licensed entities.

Under the provisions of Section 20 of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan Act, 1997, the SECP has the authority to oversee the financial services market, which includes licensed activities. Its primary objective is to promote integrity, competence, and ethical conduct in the capital market, emphasizing the disclosure of financial information for the benefit of the public and ensuring investor protection.

Recognizing the substantial public interest surrounding the activities of licensed companies, the SECP has highlighted the importance of upholding high standards of transparency, governance, and disclosure. By making audited financial statements accessible to the public, these companies can enhance their accountability and enable stakeholders to make informed evaluations of their performance.

In accordance with its regulatory powers under various sections of the legislation, the SECP has mandated that all unlisted licensed companies comply with the following requirements:

Initially, within a period of 30 days from the issuance of the directive, unlisted licensed companies must establish an agreement with the Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX) and acquire a USER ID to access the FPUC developed by the PSX. Subsequently, these companies are obligated to upload their latest annual audited financial statements on the FPUC for public dissemination. Moreover, they must consistently upload future audited financial statements on the FPUC as per the specified timelines mandated by their relevant laws until they undergo listing.

By enforcing these directives, the SECP aims to reinforce transparency and accountability within the financial sector, thereby fostering a more conducive environment for investment and financial decision-making. This measure not only enhances the accessibility of crucial financial information but also empowers investors and the public to make well-informed judgments regarding the performance and credibility of licensed companies.