Local and global economic trends: Standard Chartered’s market outlook event offers key insights

KARACHI: Standard Chartered Pakistan hosted its Market Outlook 2026 in Karachi, presenting key insights into local and global economic trends and the outlook for the year ahead.

This was the first session in a series of market outlook events that the Bank hosts for its clients throughout the year. The event brought together the Bank’s Affluent clients and experts from its product partners to discuss the prevailing global and local economic landscape and share insights on the future of financial markets.

Saadya Riaz, Head, Wealth & Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Pakistan, stated, “As global dynamics evolve, and Pakistan’s economic fundamentals strengthen, informed asset allocation and disciplined strategy become even more critical. Through the Market Outlook 2026 event, we aim to bring the strength of our global network and local expertise to help clients navigate uncertainty and capture opportunity with confidence.”

Addressing clients, Manpreet Gill, Chief Investment Officer, AMEE, Standard Chartered, via video message, highlighted that demand for gold has remained strong, driven by persistent geopolitical tensions and the continued weakening of the US dollar. He noted that the US interest rates are trending lower while largely remaining flat across other major markets, and the resulting pressure on the US dollar could create a supportive environment for emerging market assets and currencies.

The panel comprised Muhammad Asim, CFA, CIO, MCB Funds, Asif Ali Qureshi, CEO UBL Funds, and Iffat Zehra Mankani, CEO JS Investments. The session was moderated by Murtaza Hasan, Head of Investment Advisory, Standard Chartered Pakistan, and shed light on the macroeconomic outlook against the backdrop of global developments, wealth planning through efficient and diversified solutions, and the need for protection solutions in client portfolios.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026