ISLAMABAD, March 29 — Mobile banking apps and digital wallets processed 2.6 billion transactions in Pakistan during the second quarter of FY2025-26, emerging as the country’s primary payment channel, according to a quarterly review by Wealth Pakistan.
The report shows that mobile-based payments accounted for the largest share of the 3.1 billion digital transactions recorded during the period, highlighting a clear shift toward app-based financial activity across the country.
Majority share in transaction value
In monetary terms, mobile apps and wallets handled transactions worth Rs40 trillion, representing 62% of the total value of digital payments in the quarter. These transactions covered a wide range of activities, including transfers to individuals, payments to businesses and government entities, and retail purchases both online and in stores.
The findings indicate that mobile platforms are now central to everyday financial activity, reducing reliance on physical banking channels.
Rising user base across platforms
The growth in transaction volume is supported by a steady increase in users. As of December 2025, more than 126 million people were registered on mobile banking applications in Pakistan.
Branchless banking apps accounted for over 92 million users, reflecting expanding access in areas with limited traditional banking infrastructure. Meanwhile, electronic money institution (EMI) wallets recorded around 6.8 million users during the same period.
Shift from traditional to digital channels
According to the review, mobile applications outperformed other digital channels such as internet banking, ATMs and point-of-sale systems in terms of transaction volume during the quarter.
The trend reflects broader changes in Pakistan’s payment landscape, driven by increasing smartphone usage, improved internet access and expanding digital payment infrastructure.
Expanding role in financial services
Mobile banking apps now support a wide range of services, including fund transfers, bill payments, merchant transactions and other account-based operations. These services are provided through platforms backed by banks, microfinance institutions and EMIs, allowing users to manage financial activities through a single interface.
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The report concludes that mobile apps have become a core component of Pakistan’s payment system, enabling greater access to financial services and supporting the country’s transition toward digital payments.
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