easypaisa has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming Pakistan’s first Digital Retail Bank to receive commercial approval for regular digital banking operations from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) under its Licensing and Regulatory Framework for Digital Banks. Approval to launch commercial operations was accorded to easypaisa digital bank on January 28, 2025, in an official licensing ceremony held at the State Bank of Pakistan.
With this approval, Telenor Microfinance Bank has been converted from a “Microfinance Bank” to a “Digital Retail Bank” and will now be operating under the name “easypaisa digital bank” (Registered name: “easypaisa Bank Limited.”)
From Pakistan’s first branchless mobile money transfer solution to Pakistan’s first digital bank to launch commercial operations, easypaisa’s transition marks a transformative leap in financial services, enabling customers to access comprehensive banking solutions entirely online. By eliminating the need for traditional branch visits, the bank represents a significant paradigm shift in digital financial accessibility and innovation.
With 50 million registered users representing one in four Pakistani adults, a robust 31% women user base, and 2.7 billion transactions processed in 2024 valued at PKR 9.5 trillion (approximately 9% of Pakistan’s GDP), easypaisa has established itself as a pivotal player in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
Irfan Wahab Khan, Board Chair, easypaisa digital bank, said, “This is a monumental milestone that reinforces easypaisa’s role as a trailblazer, becoming the country’s first Digital Retail Bank. This achievement reflects a shared vision championed by our Board and supported by our regulators. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the State Bank of Pakistan and our exceptional team for turning this vision into reality. Above all, the trust of our customers has been the cornerstone of this accomplishment. Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to making a meaningful impact on Pakistan’s digital economy, advancing financial inclusion, and scaling digital financial services to empower millions of Pakistanis.”
Douglas Feagin, Director on the Board of easypaisa digital bank, President, Ant International & Senior Vice President, Ant Group, stated, “easypaisa’s evolution into a digital bank marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s financial services landscape. Ant Group looks forward to further supporting this transformative journey and helping to empower millions of Pakistanis, driving greater financial inclusion and economic progress across the country.”
Jahanzeb Khan, CEO & President, easypaisa digital bank, added: “The realization of easypaisa digital bank is a pivotal moment for us—our sincere thanks to the supportive Board whose valuable guidance has been crucial in achieving this milestone. The entire team has worked relentlessly, turning our vision into reality. We are not just launching a digital bank, we are creating unprecedented access for millions of customers, enabling comprehensive banking services at their fingertips. Our commitment remains unwavering, to continue pioneering innovative digital financial solutions that redefine banking in Pakistan.”
easypaisa digital bank’s shareholders are Telenor Group, a leading a leading telecom operator in Asia and the Nordics, holding a 55% shareholding, and Ant Group, the world’s leading open internet platforms, which contributes 45% ownership.
