SBP reserves jump $1bn in a week on IMF inflow

May 22, 2025 (MLN): The foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) surged by $1.04 billion or 10.03% WoW to $11.45bn during the week ended on May 16, 2025, data released by the Central Bank showed on Thursday.

The sharp rise in reserves came after Pakistan received SDR 760 million, equivalent to approximately $1,023 million from the IMF under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) on May 13, 2025.

The inflow has provided a much-needed boost to the country's external buffers amid ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy and meet external financing needs.

Similarly, the country's total reserves increased by $1.03bn or 6.63% WoW to $16.65bn.

The reserves held by commercial banks fell by $8.7m or 0.17% WoW to $5.2bn.

In the current fiscal year, SBP-held reserves have increased by $2.06bn or 21.91%.

Meanwhile, the current calendar year has seen a decrease of $264m or -2.25%.

Amount in USD Million

In April 2025, the total liquid foreign exchange reserves stood at $14.760bn, with the SBP holding $10.275bn and commercial banks maintaining $4.484bn.

The reserves, which have fluctuated over the past decade, witnessed a monthly decline of $363.90m in SBP holdings. This negative movement reflected a strain on foreign exchange availability due to external payment obligations. 

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