Pakistan Stock Exchange
How do I start investing in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX)?
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Short answer
To invest in the Pakistan Stock Exchange, open an account with an SECP-licensed PSX broker (a TREC holder), complete KYC with your CNIC and bank details, and the broker opens a CDC sub-account where your shares are held. Deposit money from your own bank account, place buy orders in the broker's app, and trades settle the next working day (T+1).
Step by step
- Choose a broker: pick a PSX TREC holder licensed by the SECP. PSX publishes the list of brokers on its website.
- Apply online or at a branch: most brokers offer online onboarding through the CDC/NCCPL system.
- Complete KYC: valid CNIC (or NICOP), a bank account in your own name, proof of income or source of funds, and your tax status (filer or non-filer).
- Get your accounts: the broker opens a trading account and a CDC sub-account in your name; you receive a CDC investor number and app access.
- Fund the account: transfer money from your own bank account to the broker's client account. Cash deposits to individuals are a red flag.
- Place orders: search the company symbol (for example OGDC, HUBC, MEBL) and place a market or limit order.
- Track holdings: confirm every trade in your CDC account statement and SMS alerts, not just the broker's app.
How settlement works (T+1)
Since 9 February 2026, trades on PSX settle on a T+1 basis: shares bought today are delivered to your CDC sub-account, and money from shares sold today is paid out, on the next working day. Before that the cycle was T+2. Make sure the money for a purchase is in your account before settlement.
Costs to expect
| Cost | Who charges it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brokerage commission | Your broker | A percentage of trade value or a per-share rate, with a minimum; compare brokers. |
| CDC and NCCPL fees | Central Depository / clearing company | Small custody and clearing charges. |
| SECP and PSX levies | Regulator / exchange | Small fixed percentages on each trade. |
| Capital gains tax | FBR (withheld by NCCPL) | Depends on filer status and holding rules in the current budget. |
| Dividend tax | FBR (withheld by the company) | Higher for non-filers; check the current rate. |
Overseas Pakistanis
Pakistanis living abroad can invest through a Roshan Digital Account by choosing the Roshan Equity Investment option on their bank's portal. The bank shares your details with CDC, you select an integrated broker, and you transfer funds from the RDA to the CDC account before trading. Dividends and sale proceeds are credited back.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Buying on WhatsApp or Telegram "tips" — pump-and-dump schemes target new investors.
- Letting the broker trade on your behalf without written instructions.
- Putting all your money in one stock or sector.
- Ignoring Shariah screening if that matters to you — check the KMI All Share Index list.
- Investing money you will need within a year; share prices can fall sharply.
Roman Urdu mein jawab
PSX mein invest kaise karein?
SECP licensed PSX broker ke paas account kholein, CNIC aur apne bank account se KYC karein, broker aap ka CDC sub-account banayega jahan shares aap ke naam par rehte hain. Apne bank se paisay transfer karein, app se order lagayein. 9 February 2026 se settlement T+1 hai — agle working day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum amount to invest in PSX?
There is no exchange-wide minimum beyond the price of the shares you buy, but some brokers set a minimum opening deposit. Many accept small amounts, so beginners can start with a few thousand rupees.
Can a student invest in PSX?
Anyone aged 18 or over with a CNIC and a bank account in their own name can open an account. Minors can only invest through accounts operated by a guardian where the broker allows it.
Is my money safe with a PSX broker?
Your shares sit in a CDC sub-account in your own name, not in the broker's account, and you receive CDC alerts for every movement. Use only SECP-licensed brokers and check your CDC statement regularly.
What is T+1 settlement?
T+1 means a trade completes one working day after it is made. PSX moved from T+2 to T+1 on 9 February 2026.
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