The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has identified two illegal online trading platforms misleading the public. Equitrix Investment Management LLC and ahlexchange.com have falsely claimed association with Arif Habib Limited, a licensed brokerage firm, to attract investors.
The SECP clarified that both platforms are unauthorized and unlicensed to provide any investment or trading services. The regulator has referred these entities to law enforcement agencies to prevent financial fraud and protect investors.
According to the SECP, these platforms often use social media and WhatsApp groups to promote unrealistic returns on investments in listed company shares. The regulator warned that such practices are illegal and put investors at high risk of losing funds.
Investors are urged to only deal with SECP-licensed securities and futures brokers. Official contact information of licensed brokers is available on their websites. Additionally, lists of authorized brokers can be found on the Pakistan Stock Exchange and Pakistan Mercantile Exchange websites.
The SECP strongly advised the public not to invest or deposit funds with Equitrix Investment Management LLC, ahlexchange.com, or any other similar fraudulent platforms. Investors should always verify the legitimacy of investment services before making financial transactions or sharing personal information.
This move is part of the SECP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen investor protection and ensure safe and regulated trading in Pakistan. By alerting the public, the regulator aims to prevent exploitation and safeguard financial markets from illegal operations.
In other related news also read SECP Approves PIA Privatization Restructuring Plan
The SECP emphasized that vigilance is crucial. Investors should report suspicious activities and avoid platforms promising unusually high returns. The regulator continues to monitor online investment schemes closely and takes strict action against violators to protect public trust in Pakistan’s financial sector.
