Pakistan’s fintech group Abhi is preparing to launch an initial public offering for its microlender, Abhi Microfinance Bank Ltd., in August 2026. The company aims to raise between 2 billion rupees and 3 billion rupees ($8 million to $11 million) by offering about 14% in new shares. This move seeks to capitalize on what is expected to be Pakistan's busiest year for listings.
Omair Ansari, sponsor and director at Abhi Microfinance Bank, stated that the proceeds from the IPO will strengthen the bank’s capital base, expecting it to exceed the State Bank of Pakistan’s minimum regulatory requirement by next year. The bank, formerly FINCA Microfinance Bank, was acquired by Abhi Pvt. (75% ownership) and TPL Corp. (remaining stake) approximately 18 months prior to the IPO announcement. Under new ownership, the bank saw a significant turnaround, reporting a profit after tax of 1.019 billion rupees for 2025, a stark improvement from a loss of 1.754 billion rupees in 2024.
The improvement in financial performance is attributed to stronger balance sheet growth, higher income generation, improved recoveries, tighter credit monitoring, and better cost discipline. Total assets increased to 77.07 billion rupees from 40.35 billion rupees, driven by a 104% expansion in advances to 37.56 billion rupees. Abhi Microfinance Bank is also exploring opportunities in gold-backed lending and is working to secure a license for gold tokenization, as well as a crypto payments corridor between Pakistan and the Middle East. Arif Habib Ltd., Topline Securities Ltd., and Growth Securities have been appointed as financial advisers for the offering.
