| Abstract |
The case describes the setting-up of Askari Bank in 1991. It was one of the ten new banks under private ownership licensed to operate in Pakistan. A large industrial group owned each of the ten banks. This characteristic of Pakistan's industrial sector is replicated in the financial sector and has, in the past, led to major regulatory problems stemming from inter-corporate financing. The Bank has shown strong growth performance over the years, reflected in increased specialisation of activities and physical expansion. Students can refer to the Note to obtain additional information about the changes and challenges facing the banking industry during this period. |