Egyptian Fintech Halan Enters Pakistan’s Market

Pakistan’s fintech sector is drawing global players, with Egypt’s Halan Microfinance Bank entering the market despite internet challenges. The company has acquired Advance Microfinance Bank and plans to launch a digital app, open 100 branches, and build a $500 million loan portfolio within five years.

CEO Mounir Nakhla sees Pakistan as an underbanked but high-potential market. While much of the economy runs on cash and informal lending, he believes the challenge isn’t demand but figuring out credit worthiness.

Halan’s approach combines digital and physical banking, targeting small businesses, farmers, and women entrepreneurs. It will offer both conventional and Shariah-compliant financing, with embedded loan products in the pipeline.

The company has already invested in restructuring Advance Microfinance Bank and is awaiting a national banking license to scale further.