PSX rings bell for gender equality on Women’s Day

KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), in collaboration with UN Women, Women on Board Initiative, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Central Depository Company (CDC), Pakistan Institute of Corporate Governance (PICG), Alfalah AMC, and CFA Society Pakistan, proudly hosted a gong ceremony to celebrate ringing the bell for gender equality on International Women’s Day, reaffirming its commitment to promote gender equality and women empowerment in the corporate sector.

The event brought together distinguished leaders, professionals and industry experts to celebrate the achievements of women and discuss strategies for fostering inclusivity in the financial and business landscape.

Women leaders from the corporate world and other sectors were invited as esteemed guests for this august event, further highlighting the significance of gender inclusivity and leadership representation.

The session commenced with opening remarks by Dr Shamshad Akhtar, chairperson of PSX, acknowledging the significance of International Women’s Day and the role of women in economic development and social progress. She said, “Gender inclusivity is a key pillar of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), serving as both an initiator and driver of growth and sustainability. While the financial sector has historically been male-dominated, it is evolving, with women gaining greater representation as investors, managers, and entrepreneurs.

“Progressive nations have dismantled barriers, defined stereotypes, and demanded concrete action to place women at the forefront. As a signatory of the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), the PSX is committed to advancing gender equality and fostering greater opportunities for women in the financial sector; driving innovation; and introducing new products that benefit women, ensuring they have greater financial inclusion and investment opportunities.”

Following the opening address, the symbolic gong ceremony was conducted to mark the occasion, emphasising the need for continuous efforts towards achieving gender parity in Pakistan.Chairperson of the Pakistan Business Council and MD/CEO of EBM Dr Zeelaf Munir, guest of honour at the event, emphasised that gender equity is an economic necessity. She stressed that businesses and financial markets must take bold action to ensure women have equal access to leadership, investment, and opportunity.

The panel discussion, titled From Setback to Success: Resilience and Overcoming Career Challenges, focused on the journeys of women professionals, highlighting their perseverance in navigating obstacles and achieving success in their respective fields.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks by MD and CEO of PSX Farrukh H Sabzwari who reiterated THE PSX’s commitment to promote gender equality in the financial market to increase not only investor base but also the significance of gender equality in corporate leadership.