SBP reserves rise $19m to $21.5bn

Mettis Global reported that SBP-held foreign currency reserves rose by $19.1 million, or 0.09% week on week, in the period ending October 16, 2026, reaching $21.49 billion. The figures came from State Bank of Pakistan data released on Thursday. During the current fiscal year, SBP reserves have grown by $3.02 billion, or 16.34%, while their increase in the calendar year to date is $5.43 billion, or 33.70%.

The country's combined liquid foreign reserves moved in the opposite direction, declining by $30.3 million, or 0.11%, to $26.83 billion. Commercial banks held $5.34 billion, down $49.4 million, or 0.92%, from the previous week. Their reduction more than offset the central bank's gain, leaving the overall reserves figure lower for the week. For investors, the release provides a snapshot of Pakistan's foreign currency position, distinguishing the central bank's holdings from those of commercial banks.