The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has approved the proposed acquisition of First Women Bank Limited by Abu Dhabi-based Eve Holdings RSC Limited. The approval comes under a Share Purchase Agreement executed as part of Pakistan’s ongoing privatization process.
The transaction was reviewed through a Phase I competition assessment conducted under the Competition Act, 2010. After examining the proposed deal, the regulator concluded that the acquisition does not raise substantial competition concerns within the relevant banking markets.
First Women Bank Limited, established to promote financial inclusion and empower women entrepreneurs, operates as a specialized commercial bank in Pakistan. Its acquisition by an international investor signals renewed foreign interest in Pakistan’s financial sector, particularly in institutions with niche market positioning.
According to the CCP’s review, the transaction is unlikely to result in market concentration or restrict competition in the broader banking industry. The Phase I assessment focuses on evaluating whether a merger or acquisition could create or strengthen a dominant market position that may harm consumers or competitors.
The approval marks a significant milestone in the privatization of First Women Bank Limited. The federal government has been pursuing structural reforms and divestment strategies to attract foreign investment and improve efficiency in state-owned enterprises.
Eve Holdings RSC Limited, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is expected to bring new capital, governance practices, and strategic direction to the bank. Industry observers believe the move could enhance the bank’s operational capacity and expand its outreach, particularly in digital and SME banking segments.
The CCP’s clearance ensures the transaction can proceed to completion, subject to fulfillment of other regulatory and procedural requirements. Officials maintain that such approvals are granted only after ensuring compliance with competition laws and safeguarding market fairness.
The development highlights Pakistan’s broader efforts to encourage foreign direct investment while maintaining regulatory oversight. As privatization initiatives continue, competition authorities are expected to play a central role in ensuring transparency and preventing anti-competitive practices in key sectors.
