Bank of Punjab Achieves AAA Rating, First Provincial Bank to Top Credit Scale

In a landmark move, the Pakistan Credit Rating Agency (PACRA) has elevated the Bank of Punjab (BOP) to a long‑term AAA rating, surpassing its previous AA+ status. This upgrade marks BOP as the first and only provincial bank in Pakistan to attain the nation’s highest credit rating.

Robust Financial Performance Drives the Upgrade

Moreover, BOP’s 2025 deposits climbed past PKR 2 trillion, while operating profit before credit loss allowance nearly doubled, rising 98.5% to PKR 40.7 billion. Consequently, a sharper deposit mix and a markedly lower cost of funds have translated into stronger core earnings, tighter costs, and disciplined risk stewardship.

Leadership’s Vision for Sustainable Growth

“AAA is more than a rating, it is proof of what disciplined, professional banking can build,” stated Mr. Zafar Masud, President & CEO of BOP. “We have created a commercially strong institution that delivers sustainable value for shareholders while staying true to financial inclusion, responsible banking and the development of Punjab and Pakistan.”

Digital Innovation and Priority‑Sector Focus

Furthermore, BOP stands as Pakistan’s leading digital lender and a frontrunner in priority‑sector finance. The bank excels in SME, agriculture, women’s financial inclusion, and housing, thanks largely to flagship Government of Punjab programmes such as Asaan Karobar, Kissan Card, Livestock Card, and Apni Chat Apna Ghar. These initiatives have opened formal financial access to entrepreneurs, farmers, women, and first‑time borrowers across the province.

Recognition of Stakeholder Support

In addition, BOP expresses deep gratitude to its majority sponsor, the Government of Punjab, whose confidence and strategic guidance have bolstered the bank’s institutional capacity and anchored its role in the province’s growth and inclusion agenda. “This achievement belongs to our people,” Mr. Masud added. “We are grateful to the Government of Punjab, our Board of Directors, customers, regulators, shareholders and above all to our Honourable Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif Saheba, for her faith in BOP and its unmatched team.”

Commitment to Responsible Growth

Consequently, BOP reaffirms its dedication to responsible growth, strong capital, customer‑centric digital innovation, financial inclusion, and lasting value for all stakeholders. As Pakistan’s largest SME, agriculture, low‑cost housing, and women‑entrepreneurship lender, BOP also leads as the country’s biggest credit card issuer and digital lender.