Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX) has initiated discussions with one or more existing shareholders of National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL) to explore the possibility of acquiring an additional equity stake in the company.

The move follows recent amendments introduced by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) to the Clearing Houses (Licensing and Operations) Regulations, 2016 and the Central Depositories (Licensing and Operations) Regulations, 2016.

According to PSX, the revised regulations provide for higher permissible foreign shareholding limits in clearing houses and central depositories, along with the methodology for calculating those ownership thresholds.

The Exchange clarified that the discussions are currently at a preliminary stage, and no agreement or transaction has been concluded as of the date of the disclosure.

PSX further stated that it will issue an updated announcement in accordance with applicable disclosure requirements once a definitive agreement is signed or if any material development takes place regarding the proposed acquisition.