As per recent amendments in the Banking Companies Ordinance (BCO), 1962, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has been designated as the resolution authority for banking companies and other institutions as specified under section 3A of the BCO with the objective to strengthen the financial stability regime. Accordingly, SBP has established ‘Financial Institutions Resolution Department’ (FIRD) for orderly resolution of distressed/ problem banks, Microfinance Banks (MFBs) and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) (hereinafter referred to as “banks”).

In this regard, resolution planning is considered as an essential pre-requisite for preparing in advance for an orderly resolution of distressed banks. The timely provision of relevant information/data would serve as a key input for preparation of resolution plans. Accordingly, broad guidelines are being issued on the information requirements. In this regard, banks shall designate a senior level official, preferably the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) or Chief Financial Officer (CFO), under intimation to FIRD, who shall be responsible for internal coordination and submission of information as well as coordination with SBP on all resolution planning related matters.

In accordance with the aforementioned guidelines, the banks are advised to prepare the first set of required information based on position as of December 31, 2025 and send a confirmation to SBP to this effect by April 30, 2026. Further, banks are advised to update their required information at least annually or more frequently to reflect any changes in their business operations, group structure, or their material entities. SBP may require all or any specific bank(s) to submit the required information on periodical basis or as and when required.

Enclosure: Guidelines on Core Information Requirements for Resolution Planning