Rating History
Dissemination Date Rating Outlook Action Rating Watch
10-Nov-25 AM3+ Stable Upgrade -
20-Dec-24 AM3 Positive Maintain -
22-Dec-23 AM3 Stable Maintain -
23-Dec-22 AM3 Stable Maintain -
24-Dec-21 AM3 Stable Maintain -
About the Entity

The majority shareholding of the 786 Investments Limited is held by the Dawood Group through Miss Tara Uzra Dawood (29.90%), B.R.R. Guardian Modaraba (16.53%), and the Bank of Khyber (15.00%). The remaining shareholding of ~38.57% is held by other individuals and corporate entities. The AMC's Board of Directors currently comprises seven board members out of which, three independent and three are non-executive. The Chairperson, Mr. Ahmed Salman Munir, possesses more than 31 years of professional experience in the banking industry.

Rating Rationale

The rating upgrade of 786 Investments Limited (“786IL” or the “AMC”) reflects its strong sponsorship profile, which contributes to financial stability, business sustainability, and enhanced market credibility, thereby strengthening the AMC’s brand positioning and investor confidence. Being a publicly listed AMC, 786 Investments Limited upholds a strong commitment to transparency and sound corporate governance, which has been a key factor supporting its rating upgrade. The AMC’s seasoned management team and well-defined organizational structure further reinforce operational stability and strategic direction. The rating upgrade also reflects its consistent progress across critical performance areas, including efficient back-office operations, diversified product offerings, improved fund performance, expanded AUM base, improved profitability and increased equity. The AMC has implemented MAC 360 software, replacing the outdated Sidat Hyder Financials system. MAC 360 now supports portfolio management, unit holder accounting, and general ledger operations, enhancing MIS efficiency and client service quality. Since Sep'24, the overall asset management industry has recorded growth of ~38% on YoY basis. In comparison, the AMC’s AUMs increased to PKR 1.8bln with market share of 0.04% as of Sep'25 (Sep'24: PKR 808mln). The AMC is currently managing two funds in major categories: the 786 Smart Fund and the 786 Islamic Money Market Fund, both of which are classified under the Shariah-compliant Income category and the Shariah-compliant money market category. The AMC has exhibited good fund performance, with both offerings ranked in the top quartile of their categories and delivering returns surpassing their respective benchmarks. Management plans to introduce specialized smart funds targeting Haj-Umrah, Women, and Gen-Z investors. Further diversification of AUM across various asset classes would strengthen the overall management quality assessment. The clientele mix of 786IL currently comprises 80% institutional and 20% retail investors. The AMC is focusing on increasing retail penetration through expanding its distribution network to enhance accessibility, operational efficiency, and customer experience. For this, the AMC is enhancing its digital infrastructure through targeted IT investments by developing mobile app which will be launched in near future. These efforts are designed to strengthen the AMC’s market position and better serve its clients. Sustaining strong fund performance and maintaining credit quality metrics will be essential for the AMC’s future rating.
On the financial profile side, the management fee of the AMC increased by 20% to PKR ~5.9mln at the end of 3MFY26 (3MFY25: PKR ~4.9mln). The profitability of the AMC increased to PKR ~12.7mln at the end of 3MFY26 (3MFY25: PKR ~8.1mln). The profitability has been increased on the back of net realized gain on investments. The AMC's equity stood at PKR ~285mln as of 3MFY26 (3MFY25: PKR ~272mln), meeting the minimum regulatory requirement. 786IL is a publicly listed Asset Management Company (AMC) established in Pakistan. It operates under the umbrella of the First Dawood Group, a prominent and diversified conglomerate with a strong foothold in the financial and industrial sectors through its association with leading enterprises such as Dawood Hercules Chemicals, Dawood Yamaha, Dawlance, and Descon Engineering.

Key Rating Drivers

The rating is dependent on the materialization of strategy to enhance AUM's and the market position of the AMC. Meanwhile, maintaining strong fund performance and diversifying the fund slate is important. Upholding high governance standards and strengthening risk management is crucial for the rating.

Profile
Structure

786 Investments Limited (“786IL” or the “AMC”) is a public listed Company incorporated in Pakistan. It is registered as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) under the NBFC Rules, 2003. The AMC holds licenses to undertake Asset Management Services as well as Investment Advisory Services in accordance with the provisions of the NBFC Rules, 2003 and the NBFC Regulations, 2008.


Background

786 Investments Limited was established in 1990 and began its venture capital financing operations in 1993, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as a co founding sponsor. In 1999, it was acquired by the First Dawood Group. In 2002, First Dawood Group, in collaboration with ADB, transitioned the AMC’s operations to asset management. Then, in January 2017, the AMC’s name was changed from Dawood Capital Management Limited to 786 Investments Limited to more accurately reflect its focus on Islamic asset management.


Market Share

786 Investments Limited is a relatively small player in the asset management industry. As of Sep'25, the AMC’s market share stood at approximately 0.04%, reflecting its modest presence within the overall mutual fund industry.


Diversification of Fund Mix

The AMC currently manages two funds — the 786 Smart Fund and the 786 Islamic Money Market Fund. The 786 Smart Fund falls under the Shariah-compliant Income category, while the 786 Islamic Money Market Fund is classified within the Shariah-compliant Money Market category. Both funds are managed in accordance with Shariah principles, offering investors ethical and compliant investment avenues.


Investor Concentration

The top 10 investors accounted for ~92% of the total assets under management (AUMs) of the AMC as of Jun'25 whereas average related party holdings represent ~83% of the total AUM.


Ownership
Ownership Structure

The majority shareholding of the AMC is held by the Dawood Group through Miss Tara Uzra Dawood (29.90%), B.R.R. Guardian Modaraba (16.53%), and the Bank of Khyber (15.00%). The remaining shareholding of 38.57% is held by other individuals and corporate entities.


Business Acumen

First Dawood Group is a well-established and diversified conglomerate in Pakistan with a long-standing presence in the Country’s business and financial landscape. Over the years, the Group has built a strong reputation for its contributions across multiple sectors, including financial services, investment management, and industrial ventures. Its enduring presence reflects a legacy of prudent business practices, strategic foresight, and a commitment to sustainable growth, positioning it as a trusted name within Pakistan’s corporate ecosystem.


Financial Strength

Building on the experience and expertise of several decades, First Dawood Group enjoys a strong financial foundation emanating from its well diversified businesses.


Governance
Board Structure

The Board of Directors (BoD) of the AMC consists of seven members, including three independent directors, three non-executive directors, and one executive director. A strong governance framework bodes well for oversight and control.


Members’ Profile

The Board members have strong educational backgrounds and carry extensive experience. Mr. Ahmed Salman Munir - Chairperson possesses more than 31 years of professional experience in the banking industry. He began his career at Exxon Chemical Pakistan Ltd., gaining expertise in Industrial Relations and Company Secretarial functions, followed by five years as Head of HR at The Chase Manhattan Bank. In 1991, he joined the Asian Development Bank (Manila), where he spent 16 years in HR, ultimately serving as Principal Compensation and Benefits Specialist, overseeing 25 offices worldwide. Mr Ahmer Zia Sarwar - Independent Director has over 15 years of professional teaching and training experience. He has taught more than 4,000 students and serves as Chairman of Orange Management Consultants. Mr. Nadeem Akhter - Independent Director served for more than two decades in senior positions in various multinational and national organisations including rich experience of more than seventeen years in the insurance industry. Mr. Naveed Ahmed - Non-Executive Director has over 15 years of professional experience with Financial Institutions major in legal, compliance and corporate affairs. He has been associated with well reputed organizations like Central Depository Company of Pakistan, First Dawood Investment Bank Ltd and Dawood Family Takaful Limited. Mr. Syed Musharaf Ali - Non-Executive Director is highly motivated individual, with complete dedication and commitment to work and fast learner, looking forward to have excellent and rewarding business skills. He has done Masters in Business Finance and working as Chief Financial Officer in listed Financial Institution. He has vast experience in financial sector. Mr. Iqbal Shafiq - Non-Executive Director is highly motivated individual, with complete dedication and commitment to work and fast learner. He had established a consultancy firm in 1980 with the name Iqbal Shafiq Associates registered with Ministry of Planning Islamabad And Asian Development Bank. He has vast experience in financial consultancy.


Board Effectiveness

To ensure an effective control environment and compliance with reporting standards, the AMC has constituted an Audit Committee and HR Committee at the Board level.


Transparency

The Audit Committee is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the AMC’s financial statements and the effectiveness of its internal control framework. The internal audit function is maintained in-house and submits reports to the Audit Committee on a quarterly basis, enabling continuous monitoring and oversight. The external auditors, Riaz Ahmed & Company Chartered Accountants — classified in the “A” category on the SBP’s panel of auditors, have issued an unqualified opinion on the AMC’s financial statements for the period ended FY25.


Management
Organizational Structure

The organizational structure is lean and aligns with the operations of the AMC. 786 Investments Limited operates through various departments. All departments report to the CEO except for the internal audit department, which reports to the audit committee.


Management Team

The management team comprises experienced professionals carrying the requisite experience and skill set. Ms. Tara Uzra Dawood, the CEO, holds a Doctorate in Judicial Science from Harvard and specializes in shariah finance, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate law. She serves on the boards of PSO and PRL, and is an active global advocate for Shariah-compliant finance. Additionally, she holds key positions with MUFAP and Danube University Krems, contributing her expertise to both industry and academia. Mr. Noman Shakir, an ACMA and MA in Economics, is the CFO and Company Secretary, with nearly 10 years of experience in financial and accounting services. 


Technology Infrastructure

The AMC has transitioned to the software named MAC 360, replacing the outdated Sidat Hyder Financials, which was previously used as the core software. MAC 360 now serves as the dedicated software for portfolio management, unit holder accounting, and general ledger systems. This initiative was aimed at enhancing the AMC’s MIS efficiency and improving service to its clients. Further, the AMC is currently developing a mobile application aimed at enhancing its digital presence and broadening its market footprint. According to management, the app is expected to be launched within the next few months


Control Environment

Detailed policies are devised for Operations, IT, Investment and Risk Management among others. Regular MIS reports are generated for the senior management, which relates to investment risk management.


Investment Risk Management
Credit Risk

The AMC employs a combination of internal assessment modules and Excel-based credit risk scorecards to evaluate and monitor the creditworthiness of its investment exposures. These tools facilitate a structured and data-driven approach to credit risk assessment, ensuring that all investments align with the company’s defined risk parameters.


Liquidity Profile

The risk management department closely monitors the liquidity profile of the funds to prevent any potential mismatches between assets and liabilities. To ensure smooth redemptions and operational stability, the AMC maintains adequate liquidity by allocating a significant portion of fund assets to highly liquid investment instruments.


Market Risk

The AMC has set appropriate metrics to measure exposure to market risk factors. The exposure limits applicable to interest-bearing securities and any breaches of the limits are regularly reviewed and reported to the management.


Portfolio Management
IC Composition

The investment decision making process is well-structured with the CEO providing critical support. The Investment Committee comprises 3 individuals, the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Fund Manager. 


Effectiveness

The Investment Committee convenes on a weekly basis to review portfolio performance and market developments. During these meetings, the research department presents a comprehensive investment summary, providing key insights and recommendations to support informed decision-making and strategic portfolio adjustments.


Investment Research and Analysis

The research function is overseen by Mr. Azam Khan, Head of Research, who is responsible for guiding the overall research strategy and ensuring the quality and integrity of analytical outputs. Investment proposals are developed through a comprehensive approach that leverages both in-house research capabilities and third-party research insights. This blended methodology enables the investment team to make well-informed decisions based on diverse perspectives, robust data analysis, and independent validation of investment opportunities.


Customer Relationship
Investor Services

The AMC ensures the provision of adequate and efficient services to its clients. The Unit Holder Management Department plays a pivotal role in this process by promptly addressing client queries, concerns, and complaints. The department is committed to maintaining transparent communication, providing timely resolutions, and ensuring that all client interactions reflect the AMC’s dedication to service excellence and investor care.


Investor Reporting

786 Investments Limited ensures timely dissemination of unit holder statements and publication of Fund Manager Reports (FMRs) on its official website, reflecting its commitment to transparency and investor communication. The FMRs comprehensively cover all mandatory disclosure requirements as prescribed by regulatory authorities, providing detailed insights into fund performance, portfolio composition, market outlook, and key investment strategies. This practice enhances investor confidence and enables unit holders to make informed investment decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information.


Distribution and Sales Network

The AMC aims to strategically expand its distribution and sales network to drive growth in its AUMs The expansion strategy emphasizes strengthening the AMC’s digital footprint, enabling wider investor outreach and improved service accessibility through technology-driven solutions. In addition, the AMC plans to leverage Islamic wallet services to cater to the growing demand for Shariah-compliant investment avenues.


Performance
Asset Under Management

The AUMs of 786 Investments Limited stood at PKR ~1,792mln at the end 3MFY26 (FY25: PKR ~1,951mln). The Fund’s performance has shown improvement, with returns exceeding both the industry average and its benchmark.


Asset Manager

The management fee of the AMC increased by 20% to PKR ~5.9mln at the end of 3MFY26 (3MFY25: PKR ~4.9mln). The PAT increased to PKR ~12.7mln at the end of 3MFY26 (3MFY25: PKR ~8.1mln). The profitability has been increased on the back of net realized gain on investments. The AMC's equity stood at PKR ~285mln as of 3MFY26 (3MFY25: PKR ~272mln), well above the minimum regulatory requirement. 


 
 

Nov-25

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Sr. No. Fund Name Category Launch Date Weight (%) AUMs (PKR' mln) Return | Rolling 12 Months (Sep'24-Sep'25) Stability Rating/Performance Ranking
Sep-25 Jun-25 Mar-25 Dec-24 Return Benchmark Fund vs. Benchmark
Shariah Compliant Funds
1 786 Smart Fund Shariah Compliant Income 20-May-03 78.6% 1,409 1,514 1,424 715 11.2% 10.0% 1.2% AA-
2 786 Islamic Money Market Fund Shariah Compliant Money Market 22 Oct, 2024 21.4% 383 437 131 101 - - - -
Grand Total 100% 1,792 1,951 1,555 816

Nov-25

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