In the intricate world of finance, understanding the mechanisms behind monetary policy transmission is paramount, particularly in countries like Pakistan that are grappling with challenging economic circumstances. Recognizing the significance of this knowledge, CFA Society Pakistan organized a series of workshops in Karachi and Lahore in May and September 2023, led by Director of CFA Society Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Qureshi, CFA, who is also Consultant World Bank, and Former Member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council – 2021. These half-day workshops delved deep into the intricacies of the monetary policy transmission mechanism and equipped participants with valuable insights into how economic variables interact, resulting in changes in monetary aggregates.
The workshops were instrumental in affirming CFA Society Pakistan as a brand leader in education and learning and were much appreciated by investment professionals and financial industry representatives. Participants highly valued the workshops’ relevance, as they provided them with up-to-date knowledge that can form the foundation for informed decision-making, thereby enhancing their ability to take timely and effective measures against various risks specific to Pakistan. The workshops fostered a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that drive financial markets, empowering finance professionals to navigate the dynamic landscape with confidence.
Not only did attendees gain comprehensive data analysis skills, but they also had the opportunity to network and collaborate with industry professionals from various sectors including professionals from banks, asset management companies, insurance firms, corporates and universities. CFA Society Pakistan members, Charterpending, and CFA Program candidates were provided special discounted rates to encourage more active participation. It helped the Society develop deeper engagement with employers of CFA Charterholders, where they were offered a 75% discount.
The workshops’ inclusive nature fostered valuable networking opportunities, facilitating the exchange of ideas among professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. The collaborative environment enriched the learning experience and provided a platform for forging connections within the industry.
The overwhelming response received for the initial cohort prompted CFA Society Pakistan to arrange a second training session in the same month. Due to the high demand, a special training was also arranged for the North Chapter in Lahore in September 2023. Around 80+ finance professionals eagerly participated in both workshops, reflecting the strong demand for such initiatives that cater to the industry's evolving needs. The workshop's success and the high level of engagement demonstrated the thirst for continuous professional development opportunities within the financial sector. The initiative was quite in line with the objective of building revenue base and the response provided a good ground for future trainings.
We want to express our gratitude and give recognition to Mr. Asif Ali Qureshi, CFA, for generously volunteering his time and expertise to equip industry professionals with the necessary knowledge and tools for success in their roles. Here’s what he had to say regarding his experience:
“It was truly inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and engagement of the [training] participants as we delved into the intricacies of the financial landscape. The thirst for knowledge and the eagerness to understand the mechanisms driving financial markets were palpable throughout the sessions. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the professional development of finance professionals in Pakistan and empower them to navigate the dynamic landscape with confidence. Together, we can build a stronger and more resilient financial sector."