- With 100 branches planned by 2025, Bank invests $10 million to expand financial accessibility in Pakistan, empowering individuals and small businesses
In a bold move to transform Pakistan’s financial landscape, Halan Microfinance Bank is scaling its operations with a $10 million investment aimed at expanding access to financial services for individuals and small businesses. With a strategic vision and a commitment to digital innovation, the bank is poised to play a pivotal role in fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment across the country.
Halan Microfinance Bank’s journey in Pakistan began in March 2024 when MNT-Halan, Egypt’s largest fintech company, acquired Advans Pakistan Microfinance Bank, marking the start of a new era in Pakistan’s non-banking financial sector.
“Pakistan represents a significant opportunity for financial services, with a population exceeding 200 million and a low debt-to-GDP ratio,” said Mounir Nakhla, Founder and CEO of MNT-Halan. “Many small businesses and individuals lack access to financing, and Halan Microfinance Bank aims to bridge that gap.”
Currently operating with 24 branches, the bank is set to expand its footprint dramatically. By the end of 2025, Halan Microfinance Bank plans to grow its customer base to 200,000 and increase its network to 100 branches and business units, ensuring greater financial accessibility for underserved communities. “Our goal is to reach one million customers within the next three to four years,” Nakhla stated
Strategic vision
The bank is awaiting approval for a national licence, which will allow it to expand beyond its current operational regions. To support this growth, Halan Microfinance Bank is increasing its investments in the market to reach $10 million in 2025 — an initiative that underscores its long-term commitment to Pakistan’s financial sector.
The banks products will be focused on three key areas:
- SME lending to support small businesses and entrepreneurs who are a key driver to the economic activity.
- Provide salary-based and earned wage access (EWA) loans to meet liquidity needs.
- Women entrepreneurs & agricultural lending services
All of the products will be Shariah-compliant financing to align with market demand.
Digital finance
Beyond physical expansion, the bank is leveraging cutting-edge digital solutions to revolutionize microfinance in Pakistan. Later this year, Halan Microfinance Bank plans to launch a financial super app, designed to redefine how people access and manage their finances.
“Digital services are essential for acquiring, retaining, and cross-selling to customers,” Nakhla explained. “However, in markets like Egypt and Pakistan, a hybrid model combining digital and in-person interactions minimizes credit losses and improves growth and profitability. This balanced approach ensures a sustainable financial ecosystem.”
Commitment
MNT-Halan’s expansion into Pakistan is part of a broader regional strategy. The company, founded in 2018, is the leading lender in the region, having served over 8 million customers, out of which four million borrowers. And a leading market player in MSME lending in both Egypt and Turkey.
With a strong foundation and a proven track record, Halan Microfinance Bank is well-positioned to drive financial inclusion and economic growth in Pakistan. By integrating advanced technology with a customer-centric approach, the bank is set to making financial services more accessible, efficient, and impactful — empowering small businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals with the financial tools they need to thrive.
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