The Bank of Punjab (BOP) has been upgraded to a long-term entity rating of AAA from AA+ by the Pakistan Credit Rating Agency (Pacra), with the short-term rating held at A1+ and a stable outlook.

BOP has become the first and only provincial bank in Pakistan to achieve the nation’s highest credit rating, a milestone built on a stronger deposit franchise, rising profitability and disciplined risk management. In 2025, BOP’s deposits crossed Rs2 trillion, while the operating profit before credit loss allowance nearly doubled, rising 98.5% to Rs40.7 billion. The driver was a sharply improved deposit mix and a substantially lower cost of funds, translating into stronger core earnings, tighter costs and prudent risk stewardship.

“AAA is more than a rating, it is proof of what disciplined, professional banking can build,” said Zafar Masud, President & CEO of The Bank of Punjab. “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.” BOP is Pakistan’s leading digital lender and a frontrunner in priority-sector finance, SME, agriculture, women’s financial inclusion and housing. Through the government of Punjab programmes such as Asaan Karobar, Kissan Card, Livestock Card and Apni Chat Apna Ghar, the bank has opened formal financial access to entrepreneurs, farmers, women and first-time borrowers across the province. The bank thanks its majority sponsor, the government of Punjab, whose confidence and strategic guidance have strengthened BOP’s institutional capacity and anchored its role in the province’s growth and inclusion agenda.