KARACHI: Askari Bank Limited (PSX: AKBL) has announced a 20% interim cash dividend (Rs. 2.0 per share) for the half year ended June 30, 2026, while also approving a significant capital enhancement for its wholly owned subsidiary, Askari Currency Exchange (Pvt.) Limited. The decisions were approved by the bank’s Board of Directors during its meeting held on July 31, 2026.
The newly declared interim cash dividend is in addition to the first interim cash dividend of Rs. 2.0 per share (20%) already paid earlier in the year, taking the total interim cash payout to Rs. 4.0 per share (40%) for shareholders so far in 2026. The Board did not announce any bonus shares, right shares, or other corporate actions.
Alongside the dividend announcement, Askari Bank disclosed a key strategic initiative involving its subsidiary, Askari Currency Exchange (Pvt.) Limited. The Board approved an increase in the subsidiary’s authorized capital from Rs. 1.2 billion to Rs. 2.0 billion, while its paid-up capital will rise from Rs. 1.0 billion to Rs. 1.5 billion. The move is expected to strengthen the subsidiary’s financial base and support its future growth plans.
The bank also announced that its share transfer books will remain closed from August 13 to August 18, 2026 (both days inclusive). Share transfers received by the close of business on August 12, 2026, will be eligible for the announced dividend entitlement.
Askari Bank stated that its half-yearly financial report will be transmitted electronically through the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s PUCARS platform in accordance with the applicable PSX regulations.
The announcement reflects Askari Bank’s continued commitment to rewarding shareholders through consistent dividend distributions while simultaneously investing in the expansion of its subsidiary’s capital structure to support future business opportunities.
