Agent Interoperability Signing Ceremony at State Bank of Pakistan

Karachi, January , 2025 – Virtual Remittance Gateway, HBL Konnect, and Easypaisa proudly
announced the signing of a historic agreement for Agent Interoperability in the presence of senior
officials from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone
in the evolution of branchless banking in Pakistan, setting the stage for enhanced financial inclusivity
and innovation. The partnership is set to play a pivotal role in achieving SBP’s vision of a digital financially
inclusive Pakistan by promoting innovation and collaboration among financial institutions and their
agents.
A significant step toward financial Inclusion using interoperable agent network is represented by the
agreements inked during the ceremony at State Bank of Pakistan. By connecting the agent networks of
various financial service providers, the cutting-edge VRG’s Interop Switch seeks to establish a unified
interoperable agent platform that enables users of any bank to conduct both financial and non-financial
operations on any bank’s agent network. The interop switch will present HBL and Easypaisa with
unmatched chances to broaden their services nationwide, serving both urban and rural communities.
This would guarantee that millions of Pakistanis, wherever they may be, may have a secure, effective,
and safe banking experience by drastically lowering obstacles to financial inclusion like accessibility and
convenience.
Interoperable Agent Platform have many benefits for the users but are not limited to the disbursement
of government grants, bill payments, credit services, and micro-insurance services. Studies reveal that
the Interoperable Agent Platform maximizes economic opportunities for women and others in rural and
underserved communities while addressing the financial inclusion gender gap and sees strong potential
to leverage agent networks for much greater outreach and impact.