Pakistan Central Bank Defies Market Expectations by Holding Key Policy Rate at 10.50 Percent
Pakistan's central bank kept its policy rate at 10.50 percent to prioritize stability. The decision follows improved growth forecasts and IMF caution on easing.
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The State Bank of Pakistan 
PKopted to maintain its benchmark policy rate at 10.50 percent during its monetary policy committee meeting on January 26, 2026. This decision, announced by Governor Jameel Ahmad jameel ahmadat a press conference, defied the consensus among financial analysts as a Reuters poll conducted prior to the meeting had anticipated a 50-basis-point reduction. The central bank stated that the hold is intended to ensure price stability and support sustainable economic growth as the nation continues its recovery process.
PKopted to maintain its benchmark policy rate at 10.50 percent during its monetary policy committee meeting on January 26, 2026. This decision, announced by Governor Jameel Ahmad jameel ahmadat a press conference, defied the consensus among financial analysts as a Reuters poll conducted prior to the meeting had anticipated a 50-basis-point reduction. The central bank stated that the hold is intended to ensure price stability and support sustainable economic growth as the nation continues its recovery process.
