Who Is Arif Habib, the businessman behind PIA’s acquisition?

ISLAMABAD: Arif Habib is an icon in Pakistani business circles and has been recognized for his efforts in shaping the country’s capital market as well as the financial services industry.

As the founder of the Arif Habib Group, he has been at the forefront of an institution-building process that has boosted investors’ confidence and facilitated the development of the Pakistani economy.

Early Life and Ideas

Arif Habib started his career in the financial market when the investment and brokerage sector in Pakistan was in its burgeoning stages. With his comprehensive knowledge of the financial market, he had a visionary plan to deliver transparent, professional, and investor-friendly financial services. This initial stint of his laid the cornerstone for the formation of what became one of the biggest business groups of the country.

Arif Habib Group

The Arif Habib Group began as a brokerage-centric business and expanded to become a diversified conglomerate in the fields of financial services, investment, cement, real estate, energy resources, and more.

The Arif Habib Group is most famous for its participation in the Pakistani market as an asset management firm, securities brokerage service provider, and investment bank.

By following prudent investment policies and sound corporate governance practices, this group had earned a reputation for stability and credibility, which is more valuable in emerging markets.

Leadership in Capital Markets

Arif Habib also had important roles within the Pakistan Stock Exchange and other financial institutions. His contribution to improvements within the stock market through reforms and education of investors led to changes within the Pakistan Stock Exchange.

He is also recognized for his advocacy of policies within the Pakistan Stock Exchange that promoted long-term investment and institutional participation.