PSX, LADIESFUND eye first gender-focused ETF in Pakistan

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) and LADIESFUND Investments, a specialized investment initiative of 786 Investments Ltd., are collaborating on a groundbreaking gender-focused exchange-traded fund (ETF) and Green Gender Bond. The PSX aims to boost women's involvement in the capital markets, while LADIESFUND Investments seeks to empower women in Pakistan's financial landscape.

During the She Invests: LADIESFUND Smart Woman Money Masterclass, over 140 women gathered in Karachi to discuss investing, wealth creation, and financial planning. The proposed ETF would grant investors exposure to listed companies with a strong commitment to women's inclusion and diversity. The Green Gender Bond, meanwhile, would link sustainable and climate-focused investments with opportunities that benefit women, integrating green finance, gender equality, and Shariah-compliant investment principles.

Tara Uzra Dawood, CEO of 786 Investments Ltd. and LADIESFUND Investments, emphasized the importance of financial education for women, stating that "LADIESFUND Investments is about moving women from financial dependence to financial ownership." The event also introduced the LADIESFUND Investments initiative, structured around three stages of a woman's financial growth and development, as well as the PSX financial literacy training series, She Invests.

PSX Managing Director and CEO, Farrukh H. Sabzwari, expressed the exchange's commitment to women, noting that "Women, who make up nearly half our population, remain underrepresented as investors. We believe they should be active participants in Pakistan's capital markets." The masterclass concluded with a discussion led by Sima Kamil, former President of UBL Bank, on "How to Build Wealth During the Career Trajectory," encouraging women to begin building wealth early and make informed financial decisions throughout their careers.