Standard Chartered Discusses Investment Opportunities Amid Market Uncertainty

Standard Chartered Pakistan has highlighted investment opportunities across financial markets as global economic uncertainty and Pakistan’s ongoing macroeconomic stabilisation continue to shape investor decisions.

The bank hosted its latest Market Outlook session in Lahore on October 22, 2026, bringing together affluent clients and investment experts to discuss economic trends, financial markets and wealth management strategies.

The session examined the impact of geopolitical tensions, energy prices and the direction of US interest rates on global markets and Pakistan’s economy. Speakers also discussed ways investors can manage risks through diversification, disciplined asset allocation and long-term planning.

Experts Discuss Global and Domestic Market Trends

Saadya Riaz, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking at Standard Chartered Pakistan, said investors should look beyond short-term market movements and focus on building resilient, diversified portfolios.

She said the bank combines global market insights, local expertise and investment advisory services to help clients make informed decisions based on their financial goals, investment horizons and risk appetite.

Manpreet Gill, Chief Investment Officer for Africa, Middle East and Europe at Standard Chartered, also shared his views through a recorded message.

He discussed how geopolitical developments, energy prices and the US interest-rate cycle could affect currencies and emerging-market assets. He also highlighted the role of gold in diversified investment portfolios.

Panel Examines Investment Options in Pakistan

The panel featured Asif Ali Qureshi, CEO of UBL Funds; Iffat Mankani, Chief Executive Officer of JS Investments; and Saadya Riaz of Standard Chartered Pakistan.

Murtaza Hasan, Head of Investment Advisory at Standard Chartered Pakistan, moderated the discussion.

The experts reviewed Pakistan’s macroeconomic outlook and considered whether the current stabilisation trend could be sustained. They also discussed investment opportunities across equities, fixed-income securities and money-market instruments.

Other topics included the outlook for the Pakistani rupee, gold and real estate, as well as the role these assets can play in an investor’s portfolio.

Diversification and Long-Term Planning Take Centre Stage

The discussion emphasised the importance of moving away from short-term market timing towards goal-based investment strategies.

Speakers highlighted diversification and disciplined asset allocation as ways to navigate changing market conditions while aligning investment decisions with individual financial objectives and tolerance for risk.

Through its Market Outlook series, Standard Chartered Pakistan continues to connect clients with global investment perspectives, local market expertise and financial product specialists.

The initiative aims to help investors better understand market developments and make informed decisions about managing and growing their wealth.