The State Bank of Pakistan’s Pasban Remittance Reward Scheme is receiving a positive response from overseas Pakistanis around the world. Designed to encourage remittances through formal banking channels, the scheme will offer Rs16 billion in annual cash prizes to recipients in Pakistan. The banking industry will fund the prizes at no cost to the national exchequer. Each quarter, Rs4 billion will be distributed among 2,521 winners, benefiting more than 10,000 winners annually. Quarterly prizes include one top award of Rs100 million, 20 awards of Rs25 million each, 100 awards of Rs10 million each and 2,400 awards of Rs1 million each. Participation is automatic and free, with no application, registration, ticket purchase or minimum balance required. To qualify, beneficiaries must receive remittances equivalent to at least $100 into an eligible bank account or wallet in each of the three months of a quarter. Entries increase with each qualifying remittance’s value: $260 earns three entries, while $1,000 earns 10. There is no upper limit on entries per eligible account. Prizes are awarded to recipients in Pakistan rather than senders abroad.

Security Papers Limited (SPL) has resumed normal operations and production after completing an upgrade to its PM-2 paper machine. The manufacturer of banknote paper and other security documents had temporarily suspended production on July 25, 2026, to install and integrate modern components. According to the company, the upgrade strengthens its technical capabilities to incorporate advanced security features into banknote paper production. Operations resumed on September 30, 2026, marking the completion of the strategic modernization project.

Commercial banks across Pakistan will keep all branches open until 10:00pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, for over-the-counter payments of government duties and taxes. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) issued the directive at the Federal Board of Revenue’s request. Relevant branches must remain open longer if required for NIFT’s special clearing of government transactions. Banks must also ensure uninterrupted tax payment services through internet banking, mobile apps, ATMs and other digital platforms. The extended hours support taxpayers as the September 30 income tax return filing deadline approaches.