SBP's FX reserves rise by $19m
The central bank said in its latest weekly update on Thursday that the country’s foreign exchange reserves, held by the SBP, decreased $66 million to $8.15 billion in the week ended January 5, 2024 due to debt repayments. photo: file
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported a marginal rise in its foreign exchange reserves during the week ended February 13, 2026. According to the latest weekly data released by the central bank, its FX reserves increased by $19 million to reach $16.19 billion.
The country's total liquid foreign reserves stood at $21.3 billion. Data breakdown shows that commercial banks held net foreign reserves of $5.1 billion, contributing significantly to the overall position.
Meanwhile, gold prices in Pakistan surged sharply on Thursday, though international markets remained range bound, amid heightened geopolitical tensions and investor caution ahead of key US inflation data. According to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association, the price of 24-karat gold per tola jumped by Rs7,900 to Rs523,962, compared with Rs516,062 in the previous session.
Similarly, the price of 10 grams of 24-karat gold rose by Rs6,773 to Rs449,212, while 22-karat gold increased by Rs6,209 to Rs411,792 per 10 grams. Silver prices also recorded notable gains in the domestic market. The per-tola rate climbed by Rs358 to Rs8,404, while 10 grams of silver advanced by Rs307 to Rs7,205, the association reported.
In the international market, gold prices remained broadly steady as investors monitored geopolitical developments in the Middle East and assessed US economic indicators. Spot gold hovered around $4,980 per ounce, while US gold futures for April delivery eased slightly to about $5,000 per ounce in early Thursday trade.
Adnan Agar, Director at Interactive Commodities, said international bullion trading remained range bound during the day, with prices fluctuating between $4,960 and $5,021 per ounce. He noted that geopolitical developments could drive near-term direction.
"The market is quite lacklustre. If the US launches an attack on Iran, gold is likely to move on the upside. If tensions ease and no escalation occurs over the weekend, prices may slip," he said, adding that the next decisive move could emerge from developments after Friday.